First Hill Country Solar Tour deemed a success

New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung

NEW BRAUNFELS — Pedernales Electric Cooperative welcomed Co-op members and guests attending the Hill Country Solar Tour on Oct. 1.

The event, held in partnership with the Texas Solar Energy Society, was a first for PEC and featured residential and commercial solar installations in Oak Hill and Dripping Springs, plus educational presentations from Co-op representatives and Cathy Redson of ImagineSolar.

The tour highlighted solar installations at four PEC members’ homes, plus commercial installations at PEC’s Oak Hill Office and the Wesley Gallery in Dripping Springs. The tour kicked off at the Co-op’s Oak Hill Office, where District 4 Director and Board Vice President Chris Perry greeted members and guests.

"With this event, we are continuing the great tradition of electric cooperatives assisting our members," Perry said.

PEC District Planning Supervisor George Esqueda offered insight into the Co-op’s interconnection process while Redson explained the benefits of solar technology.

"Texas ranks No. 1 in the U.S. in solar energy potential, and I am thrilled as a PEC member to see my Co-op reaching out to educate and support the use of this technology," said Redson, who gave an educational presentation on the history of photovoltaics and on solar installations. "Solar is reliable, safe and adds value to your home."

Members and guests then continued on a self-guided solar tour. Ken and Deborah Stedman, whose 6 KW solar installation was featured on the tour, were proud to showcase their conservation efforts.

"Energy conservation is extremely important to us," said Deborah Stedman. "Reduced energy costs helped make our buying this house a reality."

Since January, the Co-op has experienced a 33 percent boost in interconnections, with 30 members installing power-generation systems on their properties, 23 of which utilize solar power. This growth mirrors both state and national trends, as individuals look to renewable technology to help reduce their electric demand.

"The Co-op has seen a definite increase in interconnections and member interest in solar technology," said PEC Communications Manager Michael Racis. "The Hill Country Solar Tour served as a great opportunity to network with industry experts and educate PEC members and the community."

For details about the Hill Country Solar Tour, visit www.pec.coop/solar

Return to Hays County Development News