The North Fork Valley makes big moves to grow the solar industry

PAONIA, Colo. Solar Energy International launches a project to grow a new energy production industry in the North Fork Valley. The “Solarize the North Fork Valley” campaign aims to convince residents of Paonia, Hotchkiss, and Crawford to power their homes entirely through solar panel technology. By creating of a demand for solar panel installations throughout the area, Solar Energy International believes they can create local job opportunitiesfor this struggling economy. Tara Miller and her husband are experienced solar users and will serve as ambassadors for the campaign. “The sun is going to keep shining, the installation takes labor,” says Tara Miller. The launch of the education program has already created seven positions at Solar Energy International and they hope to see this trend carry over into the installation sector. Residents interested in going solar can sign up for the “Solarize the North Fork Valley” campaign at the Western Colorado Climate Challenge and Solar Fair in Paonia or contact Solar Energy International directly at (970) 527-7657. Other solar campaigns such as the Switch 2020 Contract will also be presented at the solar fair.