Firelands Electric members may subscribe to purchase the energy output of solar panels in the cooperative's community renewable energy program.
AS OF SEPTEMBER 2024, THERE ARE 28 PANELS AVAILABLE.
Many cooperative members who are considering the installation of a residential solar system encounter some type of obstacle, such as trees blocking the sun’s rays or not enough space for the necessary equipment. An even more common issue is the hefty price tag — a typical residential solar system can cost $25,000 or more.
Firelands Electric’s OurSolar, a community renewable program, is a cost effective alternative. It gives members the opportunity to use solar energy without installing any equipment at their home, and all maintenance costs are included in the subscription rate.
Phase 1 of the program, which was launched in 2018, allowed residential members to sign up to purchase renewable energy produced by the 152 cooperative-owned solar panels located at Firelands Electric's facility in New London. Phase 2, which launched in 2022, consists of an additional 140 panels that are part of a much larger solar array near Findlay, Ohio. This solar field serves the 24 electric cooperatives throughout the state.
While OurSolar will not lower the bill of participating members, it is an easy and economical way to get involved in renewable power. Energy produced through OurSolar costs just 1.2 cents more per kWh than the standard residential rate. This works out to an additional monthly premium with an average of less than $1 per panel.
Even though this is a slight increase in price compared to the cooperative’s standard rate, it is a great way to go green! Members can spend a few additional dollars each month, versus the thousands of dollars required to install and maintain a personal residential system.
See the links below for more information about Firelands Electric Cooperative's OurSolar program. If you have additional questions or would like to request a contract, contact our office here or at 1-800-533-8658.
RESOURCES
- Ohio's OurSolar Generation - See how many kWh Ohio's Electric Cooperatives are producing in real time!
- OurSolar Phase 2 FAQ - Answers to the most frequently asked questions
- Sample Monthly Statement - How to read your bill with OurSolar
- OurSolar Rate Schedule - Single phase OS schedule