Due to high interest in the Solarize Somerville program, Somerville residents and businesses now have more time to take advantage of free solar energy consultations and discounted solar panel purchases being offered for a limited time through the program. Site visits are now extended through November 23 and participants have until December 16 to decide if they would like to go solar. The program uses bulk purchasing to lower the cost of installing solar panels generally by up to 20 percent.

Through Solarize Somerville, nearly 60 residents having signed contracts and an additional 70 completed site visits. Our community is only 20 solar power systems away from our goal of installing 400 kW of solar power in Somerville. If we reach our goal, SolarFlair will donate a 5 kW system to a local nonprofit. To schedule your site visit, sign up at www.somervillema.gov/sustainaville/solarize. Site visits are free and there is no obligation to purchase panels. For more information, email Mary, Somerville resident and Solar Coach, at somervillesolarcoach@gmail.com or visit www.somervillema.gov/sustainaville/solarize.

Residents who have questions about their solar projects are invited to stop by City Hall Annex at 50 Evergreen Avenue, Somerville, second floor, Thursday, November 10, 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Residents will have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with Christine Andrews, City of Somerville Housing and Environment Programs Coordinator; Mary Mangan, resident and Solar Coach; and Brian Hession, SolarFlair representative. Residents who have signed their contracts are invited to stop by to pick up a free Solarize Somerville t-shirt or hat.