Help Marsh River Co-op Transition to Solar Power!
We need your help to mitigate the impact of Central Maine Power’s fee increases on the overhead costs of the co-op. A more affordable and predictable monthly power fee will increase the co-op’s resiliency to uncontrollable economic factors and allow us to continue supporting our community's robust local food system. Despite extraordinary efforts to successfully maximize efficiency and conserve our energy use, these have been no match for the fee increases. Since 2020 the co-op has seen its energy costs rise from just under $10,000 to an estimated cost of almost $20,000 for 2023.
Solar Array Information & Potential Energy Savings:
Installation Projected Cost: $129,000
Solar Array Size: 47KW
Anticipated Yearly Generation: 40,643 - 50,803 KWhrs/Year
Estimated monthly energy savings: Approximately $950 - $1200, depending on production, efficiencies, and current energy prices.
Estimated lifetime savings (40-year life span): $600,217
(Image of proposed solar arrays on the pole barn behind the co-op)
Phase 1 of fundraising (current phase): Before installing the solar array, we need to make structural improvements to the pole barn that are estimated at $5,000. We are seeking contributions from our members and community to help offset this upfront cost. By contributing to the solar array installation, you are supporting the long-term sustainability of the co-op and ensuring that it can remain a valuable resource for our community.
Phase 2 of fundraising: We will be working toward covering the remaining amount of our total projected installation cost amount of $129,000.
If you are interested in learning more, please review this information sheet outlining the project. If you have any questions, email us at [email protected].
The Marsh River Cooperative is a 1120-C Cooperative Association. Unlike a non-profit or charity, monetary gifts to the cooperative are not tax deductible. However, as a Cooperative Association, we are able to accept a donations through a Fiscal Sponsor. This establishes a separate entity that can receive monetary contributions, which count as a tax deduction. If you’re interested in making a large financial contribution, please contact us directly at [email protected] to discuss that option.