Follow-up to the Earth Day Solar Energy Forum

Sustainable Fairfax will host a follow-up event to our Earth Day Solar Energy Forum which drew about 500 people. This event will take place on Wednesday, May 2, from 6:30-8:30 pm at the Fairfax Women’s Club and will continue the discussion of a bulk purchase of solar merchandise. A short film on solar installation Residential Solar Electricity with Johnny Weiss will also be shown.

This event is open to anyone interested in bulk purchasing solar merchandise—you do not need to be a Fairfax resident to participate. Bring a copy of your last PG&E bill. We will discuss the steps towards installing solar components on your home/business.

More About the Film: Residential Solar Electricity with Johnny Weiss

At Solar Energy International in Carbondale, Colorado, Johnny Weiss and his partner, Ken Olson, teach the practical use of renewable energy technologies to students from all over the world. Johnny has been teaching, designing and installing solar electric Photovoltaic systems for over fifteen years. In this video, Johnny gives and demonstrates practical answers to the questions most asked by homeowners as they consider the purchase and installation of their own solar electric system, including:

• What are the basic components of a residential PV system?
• How do you wire Photovoltaic modules?
• What’s the best way to mount Photovoltaic modules?
• What are trackers, and when are they appropriate?
• What is a solar pathfinder, and how do you use it to site your PV array?
• What are charge controllers used for?
• What voltage system is best for residential use?
• Why are inverters such an important part of PV system design?
• Should I use AC or DC appliances?
• What do I need to know about Photovoltaic storage batteries?
• How do I wire the battery terminals for trouble-free operation?
• What are the functions of the various pieces of safety equipment, and how are they wired together?
• How much does PV power cost for the average home?

Sustainable Fairfax is committed to supporting all age groups in the community, to work together to regenerate and preserve the social, economic and environmental well-being of Fairfax. For more information, contact the Hotline. If possible we prefer e-mail correspondence for Solar Committee inquires.