Sep 15, 2019 2 min read

The public is invited to learn more about solar energy at the first Greene County Solar Festival, slated to be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Greene County Fairgrounds near Waynesburg.

“The solar industry is growing all around Pennsylvania,” said Henry McKay, program director for Solar United Neighbors of Pennsylvania. “In terms of installation, Greene County is low on the list. We’re trying to raise awareness that this is an option for homes and businesses, and it’s a growing area of employment. This is an opportunity Greene County can take advantage of.”

The festival will showcase advantages of solar power, including saving homeowners money, building energy freedom and creating jobs.

It will also give people another opportunity to learn about the Mon/Yough Solar Co-op, which is continuing to accept members interested in going solar in the next few months.

McKay said the festival will also provide information on electric vehicles and will have a few there, including Teslas.

Educational workshops include a homeowner panel from noon to 1 p.m., Solar United Neighbors Co-op, 2 to 3 p.m. and energy efficiency from 4 to 5 p.m.

Speakers include members of Solar United Neighbors, a national organization that helps people build solar co-ops; Greene County residents who recently switched to solar energy will explain the process and discuss benefits; Linda Wigington, of Waynesburg, a residential energy consultant, will share tips on saving money by improving home energy efficiency; and energy installers will talk about working in the field.

The festival also features music by Dan Baker, Randy and Daria Jones, and David and Mary Beth Craig. Local vendors will sell food, crafts and goods.