Dallas and DeSoto Solar Co-op launch release

Solar co-op launches for Dallas and DeSoto residents to go solar together, offering free vendor-neutral information about rooftop solar

Dallas, TX–Nonprofit group Solar United Neighbors (SUN) announced today the launch of the Dallas and DeSoto Solar Co-op to help Dallas area residents go solar with vendor-neutral resources and a group rate for their systems.

The co-op is free to join and open to homeowners and business owners in DeSoto and Dallas. Together, co-op members will learn about solar energy and leverage bulk purchasing to ensure competitive pricing and quality solar installations. Depending on interest and the installer the group selects, members may have the option to install batteries and electric vehicle chargers along with solar.

“The co-op will enable Dallas and DeSoto homeowners and business owners to join the growing community of people taking control of their long-term energy costs by harnessing solar power,” said Hanna Mitchell, Texas program director for SUN. “Together, we’re building a movement to transform our electricity system into one that is fairer while spurring investment in local, clean energy jobs.”

SUN will host several online webinars about solar energy and how the solar co-op works. The webinars, like the co-op, are free and open to the public.

“I hope more people can learn about the benefits of solar through this initiative and see if it makes sense for them,” said DeSoto resident and local solar champion,
Twunna Collins. “I’ve been talking to my neighbors about solar and I look forward to seeing them on the first webinar.”

After a competitive bidding process facilitated by SUN, co-op members will select a single solar company to complete the individual installations for each member.
Joining the co-op does not obligate members to purchase solar. Instead, members will have the option to individually purchase panels and electric vehicle chargers based on the installer’s group rate.

Partnering on the co-op are Environment Texas, TexPIRG, Citizen’s Climate Lobby DFW, and Movement Mentality.

“We are enthusiastic about partnering with SUN for another solar co-op in Texas,” said Luke Metzger, executive director of Environment Texas. “People who learn about solar and join the co-op are participating in an important step to support clean air, clean water, and a clean energy future for everyone—one rooftop at a time.”

“As a grassroots network of local activists, we stand for local solutions to address climate change,” said Ram Ramisetti with Citizens Climate Lobby, DFW. “Whether
or not you go solar, this is a great opportunity to learn more since the co-op and information sessions are free to join and can help spark more conversations and collaborative change down the road.”

“We hope people will tune in to see how they can take control of their energy bills for years to come,” said Bay Scoggin,” director of TexPIRG. “Participating in co-ops is a great way for consumers to get extra value out of going solar. When it comes to playing in the sun, the more the merrier!”

“We are only able to reach people where they are, when we ourselves are willing to serve,” said Gabrielle Dawn Chè with Movement Mentality. “When you serve
others, you are acknowledging that all are worthy of every good thing. And we hope every good thing includes better access to solar for everyone.”

SUN has hosted seven solar co-ops in Texas since December 2018. According to the group’s estimates, the homes and businesses that now have solar panels because of co-ops represent: 395 kW of solar power, over $1million in local solar spending, and more than 12 million lbs. of lifetime carbon offsets.

Individuals interested in going solar can sign up for the co-op or one of the upcoming information sessions at the co-op web page: http://solarunitedneighbors.org/dallasdesoto

Informational webinars are planned for:

Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 6:30 p.m. CT
RSVP on Zoom

Saturday, Oct. 3, at 3:00 p.m. CT
RSVP on Zoom

Monday, Oct. 5, at 6:30 p.m. CT
RSVP on Zoom