Although plans are in their early stages, the group is currently considering the benefits of generating solar energy using a photovoltaic array.  Besides the eventual benefit of free electricity to FFM after payoff of the system, conversion to solar energy reduces the amount of coal mined each year, eliminates greenhouse gas production, reduces the amount of electricity lost in long-distance transmission, and helps us all become more energy independent.  The relative high cost of equipment and installation is a major drawback to solar energy systems.  Several federal and state programs have been established to help mitigate the costs and encourage people to install solar energy systems.  Because the majority of the programs involve tax incentives, nonprofits typically arrange for a for-profit company to install and own the system and then sign a power purchase agreement.  In these types of arrangements, the non-profit has no out-of-pocket costs.  Our group is looking at existing companies in this area and may consider forming a new company that would donate the system to FFM after it has been paid off.   After a pay-off period of about 10 years, FFM would have free energy from the system. 

The group has considered a variety of locations for the solar array including installation on the roof or in the backyard.  The construction of a pavilion with panels covering the half-roof would allow us to make the appearance more natural with strategic plantings and also provide a useable place for picnic tables and outdoor activities.  The solar energy project group plans to hold a second hour session to exchange ideas on July 12th.