Solarize Northeast was initiated by local neighborhood leaders who wanted to increase the amount of renewable energy generated in Northeast Portland by working together as a community. The program is structured so that the price of solar panel installation goes down for everybody as more neighbors join the effort. Group purchasing creates a 25 to 35 percent savings below current prices, depending on how many sign up. This group discount, in addition to current available tax credits and cash incentives, gives Solarize Northeast participants a significant cost savings.

Through a competitive bidding process, Northeast Coalition of Neighbors selected SolarCity to implement the group purchase program and install the solar electric systems. SolarCity has been in business in Oregon since 2008 with offices based in NE Portland.

How it works

The Solarize Northeast program aims to install solar on over 150 homes, for over 300 kilowatts of new solar electric capacity by the end of the summer. In addition, the program hopes to increase the energy efficiency of over 100 area homes by connecting residents to local weatherization programs. Interested homeowners can choose to go solar, participate in weatherization upgrades, or both by following these steps:

1. Join online at http://solarize.necoalition.org by April 15.

2. Choose to go solar, weatherize your home, or both.

3. Attend an upcoming workshop to learn more. (See “Calendar” tab on website.)

The project contractor performs a solar assessment at each home to determine the correct size and design of the solar electric system. Installations will take place between April 15 - August 30.

Neighborhood Associations: Not just block parties, land use, transportation, parks, and crime prevention any more.