Tag: solar farm

  • 5 Tips For Going Green From Maryland Community Solar

    5 Tips For Going Green From Maryland Community Solar

    5 Tips For Going Green From Maryland Community Solar

    As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it’s time for spring cleaning and getting outside! Here are 5 great tips for going green to help sustain the environment we love:

    1. Plant a Tree
      Spring is the perfect time to garden or plant a tree. Trees offer shade when temperatures are hot and provide privacy for your family while entertaining and playing outdoors. Trees also provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals as well as oxygen for all living things. 
    2. Ditch Single-Use Plastic
      The water bottling process releases 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere annually. Disposable water bottle waste washes into the ocean and kills 1.1 million marine creatures each year.
    3. Use Reusable Bags
      Reusable bags are not only better for the environment, but they can also save you money. More and more stores are beginning to charge for the use of plastic bags. 
    4. Bike to Get Around
      A typical passenger vehicle emits about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. Taking a bike ride is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying quality time with your friends and family. It is also cost-effective and a great way to exercise.
    5. Use Renewable Energy
      The cheapest times to use electricity are during non-peak hours. Non-peak hours vary a little between electric providers but generally range from 10:00 pm – 5:00 am. Of course, you don’t need to switch to the graveyard shift in order to save money on your electric bill! Simply turn lights off when they are not in use or set up timers or smart home automation. In addition, CFLs and LEDs are great alternatives to incandescent bulbs, with LEDs taking the crown for the most efficient lightbulb on the market. Combine these changes with 100% clean, renewable energy from a local solar farm for the most advantageous energy consumption. How is this possible? Solar energy can you an additional 10% on your electric bill.

    One small change can make a huge difference. 💚

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  • Becoming a Vampire Slayer: 4 Practical Steps to Combat Wasted Energy

    Becoming a Vampire Slayer: 4 Practical Steps to Combat Wasted Energy

    Becoming a Vampire Slayer: 4 Practical Steps to Combat Wasted Energy

    You probably think you’re doing everything right: using energy-efficient bulbs, turning off lights when not in use.. but energy-suckers, also known as vampire energy, are everywhere – and the effects can be dramatic. The consequences extend beyond just wasted energy and exorbitant electric bills. Vampire energy also contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases, which exacerbates climate change and further depletes our planet’s resources. Fortunately, there are simple, helpful strategies to combat vampire power and reclaim wasted energy. Here are the 4 key steps to becoming a vampire slayer:

    • Unplug or Use Power Strips: Unplugging any unused items is highly recommended to avoid standby power consumption. However, with so many electronic devices in our homes these days, this can prove to be a tedious, monotonous task. Consider using advanced power strips. Smart power strips sense energy flow and ensure maximum efficiency by automatically shutting off power to devices when not in use.
    • Choose Energy-Efficient Devices: These devices were created with vampire power in mind. They were designed specifically to reduce power-suckers and to promote energy efficiency by using less energy even during standby mode. Look for the Energy Star symbol when purchasing appliances like dishwashers and w/d units. Their upfront costs are greatly out-weighed by their long-term savings.
    • Embrace Solar Energy: Studies have shown vampire energy can easily attribute up to 20% of your electric bill! As discussed, unplugging unused items, using power strips, and utilizing energy-efficient devices are great ways to help combat the energy-suckers in your home. However, solar energy is the clear solution to helping combat pesky electronic leakage and overall energy use. The average household that enrolls in a local solar farm has the same impact on carbon emissions as planting 100 tree seedlings! Plus you save up to 15% on your electricity costs in the process.

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  • 8 Easy Steps to Going Green At School

    8 Easy Steps to Going Green At School

    8 Easy Steps to Going Green at School

    In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, it’s no surprise that many individuals are looking to follow suit wherever possible, including when going back to school. Whether you’re attending one class or an entire school year, here are 8 easily sustainable tips on going green at school: 

    1. Eco-Friendly Transportation: Consider eco-friendly transportation options like biking, walking, carpooling, or using public transportation to get to school. These choices reduce your carbon footprint and help alleviate traffic congestion.
    2. Digital Learning Materials: Embrace digital textbooks and online resources whenever possible. They not only reduce paper waste but also make it easier to access course materials from anywhere.
    3.  Reusable School Supplies: Invest in reusable school supplies like refillable pens, notebooks, and binders. Opt for recycled paper products and eco-friendly stationery items to minimize waste.
    4. Sustainable Eating Habits: When it comes to meals on campus, choose dining options that prioritize local, organic, and sustainable food. Bring your own reusable utensils, water bottles, and food containers to reduce single-use plastic waste. For bonus points, dine at one of the many local restaurants that have already enrolled with a local solar farm.
    5. Eco-Conscious Living: Make your office or study space more sustainable by using energy-efficient lighting, turning off appliances when not in use, and reducing water waste. BONUS TIP: Decorate with plants to improve air quality.
    6. Join Green Initiatives: Get involved! Many universities and business establishments have eco-focused clubs or programs where you can engage with like-minded individuals and participate in environmentally friendly projects. You can also join us at one (or all!) of our weekly events. We are very active in the community and would love for you to join us and help spread the word about the benefits of renewable energy.
    7. Minimize Printing: If you need to print documents, use both sides of the paper and print in draft mode to save on resources. Also consider whether it’s really necessary to even print at all; digital files can often suffice.
    8. Advocate for Sustainability: Use your voice and knowledge to advocate for sustainability within your school community. Encourage your institution to adopt more eco-friendly practices and engage in discussions about sustainability in your classes. This PDF is a great tool to use in your discussions, You just might inspire your educational institution to adopt renewable energy solutions!

    Incorporating these sustainable practices into your routine not only reduces your environmental impact but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards the planet. By making conscious choices, you can contribute to a greener and more eco-conscious future, one school day at a time.

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  • The Next Steps After Joining Community Solar in Maryland

    The Next Steps After Joining Community Solar in Maryland

    The Next Steps After Joining Community Solar in Maryland

    Are you interested in signing up with a solar farm in Maryland but are unsure about the process? We’ve got you covered! Community solar is a rapidly growing clean energy initiative that offers *everyone with a utility bill* the chance to contribute to the planet’s well-being, support their community, AND save some money in the process.

    But what happens AFTER you enroll? Glad you asked! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:

    • Welcome Email
      This is the best part! You did it!! You’ve enrolled and will receive a $50 VISA card as Thank You *from us* for helping Maryland meet its renewable energy goals. You will also receive a friendly hello from our team confirming your enrollment and information on how to access and register in the Customer Care portal.
    • Newsletter
      We’ll keep you in the know with our FREE monthly newsletter, “Watts Happening”. Each issue features community news, industry updates, upcoming events, and more!
    • Customer Care Portal
      Our providers provide access to a FREE portal for all solar supporters to see a behind-the-scenes look at their account and solar savings. You can manage your subscription, track energy production, and even connect LIVE with their Customer Care Team with any questions or concerns. And, of course, we’re here for you too! 
    • Determining Your Share
      We’ll review your current utility bill, and then hook you up with the Maryland solar energy project that matches your energy usage needs.
    • Assigning Your Farm
      Matching your energy usage to solar farms in Maryland is easy! Your provider will keep you informed with email progress updates, *even during construction* so you can stay in the know about your Maryland solar journey.
    • Your Farm Goes Live
      Time to celebrate! 🥳 You will receive an email letting you know your farm is active as well as details on what to expect on future monthly electric bills.
    • Solar Credits
      Gotta love these!! Once the solar farm is active, you’ll immediately start earning solar credits on your utility bill. They’re like a reward for using clean energy! And don’t worry about those winter months. You will always receive your savings on the value of the solar credits you receive.
    • Your Savings
      Expect to wait about 3-4 months post-activation before seeing the savings on your electricity bill. But when you do.. CHA-CHING!!!
    • Long-Term Contracts
      Don’t you hate renewing contracts? We do too. That’s why you receive *continuous savings without the need for contract renewals.* In fact, THERE ISN’T A CONTRACT! You can cancel anytime. Moving? No worries! If you move within the same power company territory, you can take your subscription with you!!
    • Tell a Friend
      We’re all in this together! Supporting our community and protecting the environment is *our responsibility*. Tell your friends and family about the benefits of community solar in Maryland and how they can access it FOR FREE with Maryland Community Solar by their side. 

    By subscribing to a solar energy project in Maryland, you’re taking a vital step toward creating a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future. You don’t need to be a scientist or a superhero – just sign up and start using clean energy! ☀️🌱

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  • Why More Americans Are Turning to Solar Energy

    Why More Americans Are Turning to Solar Energy

    Why More Americans Are Turning to Solar Energy

    In 2023, an impressive 800,000 Americans made the switch to solar energy. With rising financial pressures and increasing demands on the U.S. electricity grid, more people are exploring solar energy as a way to manage their energy consumption. But what about those who can’t install solar panels on their rooftops—like renters, condo dwellers, or lower-income households? Is solar energy still within their reach?

    Enter Community Solar! 🌞

    Community solar provides a solution for those who are unable—or prefer not to—install solar panels on their own property. These projects are made up of large, off-site solar facilities that allow multiple households and businesses to participate. By subscribing to a local solar farm, participants receive a credit on their electricity bills for their share of the energy produced. It’s like having your own personal energy reserve, without the need for panels on your roof!

    One of the key benefits of community solar is its accessibility. The subscription model eliminates upfront costs, making solar energy more attainable, particularly for those in multifamily housing, rental properties, and lower-income brackets. Plus, by supporting local solar projects, subscribers help strengthen the resilience of their community’s electrical grid.

    These projects are typically managed by a third-party organization that works closely with utility companies to distribute solar energy efficiently. More and more, businesses and community organizations, like churches, are getting involved, bringing the benefits of community solar to a wider audience.

    The beauty of community solar is that it’s inclusive—if you have a utility bill, you qualify. There’s no need to switch your current electric company, and participation is as easy as signing up. By joining a community solar project, you’re not just saving on your electricity bills—you’re contributing to a more sustainable future for everyone.

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  • An Inside Look at What Goes into Building a Solar Farm

    An Inside Look at What Goes into Building a Solar Farm

    An Inside Look at What Goes into Building a Solar Farm

    You’ve driven by dozens of fields brimming with rows and rows of shiny solar panels and know they’re a fantastic asset to lowering carbon emissions, but have you ever wondered, “Why did they choose that spot?”

    Building a community solar farm involves more than just plopping panels on any available plot of land. We’re committed to partnering with companies that deliver affordable, clean electricity while not harming the land we love. After all, our goal is to fight climate change; not cause other environmental issues!

    So how is that done? Here are the 3 key considerations for solar farm development:

    • Environmental Suitability: The land must pass environmental screenings. Habitats for endangered species, wetlands, and areas with significant cultural or historical resources are avoided.
    • Land Looking For Rejuvenation: Land that has previously been used for something else, like unproductive farmland, environmentally contaminated sites, or capped landfills are prime real estate. In fact, solar farms on land such as this can actually improve its conditions and make it productive once again!
    • Specific Site Requirements: The ideal site is flat and well-drained. Typically 20 acres for every 5 megawatts (MW) of solar energy capacity is helpful as well.

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