The Cheshire County Conservation District (CCCD) is excited to announce the launch of a Community Supported Solar Initiative for Farms in the Monadnock Region! With support from the Thomas W. Haas Fund of the NH Charitable Foundation, this initiative aims to help lower energy costs for local farms in the region. This opportunity for local farms is being offered in partnership with the Monadnock Sustainability Network (MSN), an organization with a mission to encourage sustainable living practices and resource conservation in the Monadnock region.
It should come as no surprise that farmers in New Hampshire face significant energy expenses to run their businesses. This project will help to stabilize and lower costs of electricity for participating farms through the Community Supported Solar framework and in turn, increase the viability of those farms.
Solar electric (PV) systems provide a secure electricity supply and reduced exposure to electricity price inflation. Solar energy systems are rapidly taking root worldwide and Community Supported Solar is an opportunity for solar to be installed on one site, that is best suited for it, while member farms commit their electric meter to group net metering and connection to the utility grid. A number of agricultural producers have expressed interest in solar, but many do not have the capital to invest in the infrastructure and/or a good location for the PV system. The Community Supported Solar model allows for community investment to offset the costs of the participating farms.
Farmers are invited to find out how they can increase their energy independence and resilience, reduce their carbon footprint and boost the financial strength of our communities. The CCCD and MSN will host informational workshops in (3) different locations throughout the County so that interested farmers may learn more about participating in this project. Please join us for an information session from 12pm-2pm
Wednesday, March 6th at Stonewall Farm in Keene, NH
Thursday, March 7th at the Jaffrey Civic Center in Jaffrey, NH
Friday, March 8th at the CCCD office in Walpole, NH
Registration is required – Please register online at: https://tinyurl.com/y794w6sb For questions or assistance with registration, please contact the CCCD at 603-756-2988 x116
This is a free event and lunch will be provided.
Yarden of Eatin' 