Experience the solar solution: Solar Homes Tour

Saturday, October 1.

Join 55,000 people across the country to learn about and be inspired by solar energy technology and strategies on the Solar Homes Tour sponsored by the Northern California Solar Energy Association and the American Solar Energy Society.

Separate tours are scheduled for San Francisco, Oakland, Contra Costa, Santa Rosa, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Arcata, and Fresno. More than 65 sites will offer (usually) self-guided tours of solar and green buildings. For details and to pre-register, visit www.norcalsolar.org

The innovators who have adopted solar technology will demonstrate how it works, what it costs, and why its time has come. Owners, designers, and/or contractors will be available at many sites to answer questions and discuss design options, construction practices, and solar equipment. The tour sites showcase energy efficiency, active and passive solar technologies, and a wide variety of sustainable living solutions.

"There's something for everyone interested in green living," said Bay Chapter Energy Committee member Sherry Boschert, who is organizing the San Francisco tour, sponsored by the San Francisco Electric Vehicle Association. The San Francisco tour features solar homes and alternative transportation, with electric cars, biodiesel buses, and bicycles. The Oakland tour will spotlight examples of solar power at lower-income sites, including a Habitat for Humanity home, affordable housing for seniors, and cooperative housing complexes. Several tours include both professionally installed and homeowner-installed solar systems. Tours in San Jose and Monterey will include "Sustainability Fairs".

Tour fee is $10 for up to two adults if registered before Sep. 30 or $15 at registration sites the day of the tour. Tour runs 10 am - 4 pm at most locations. Limited seats on biodiesel buses are available for optional two-hour tours to selected sites in San Francisco; these must be reserved in advance for $10 each. Pre-registration is highly encouraged. For more information contact (530)852-0354 or email info-at-norcalsolar.org