Crow Wing Power's announcement by Bruce Kraemer, CEO, that it was studying the feasibility of installing a Community Solar Garden, is a win-win for everyone and merits the support of all Crow Wing Power members, whether or not they wish to participate.
It's a win financially because, based on the numbers stated by Mr. Kraemer, an investment in panels would provide a return of 4.3 percent, much better than available on a savings account. It's a win for all who can't afford their own larger system, or who don't have available space, or who don't have a sunny site, because now they too can enjoy solar energy powering their home or business.
It's a win for members who don't choose to participate because they will receive the benefit of other members financing Crow Wing Power expanding its supply of electrical capacity. It's a win for everyone who believes in the individual right to choose and in free enterprise because member participation is purely voluntary.
It's a win for everyone concerned about clean air and water because solar energy is 100 percent clean-a breath of fresh air and a glass of clean water for everyone, including the deer, fish, birds and myriad of critters that thrive in the natural environment.
Importantly, it's a big win for Crow Wing Power itself because it helps Crow Wing Power more strongly position itself as a reliable and dependable provider of electricity in an ever evolving energy world.
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My wife, Jean, and I have installed solar panels and live in Cass County. We are members of Crow Wing Power and are active volunteers in numerous community organizations.
James Ballenthin
Backus
