This month, we are launching a new series featuring individuals who are making a difference in their community as DC Solar for All (SFA) community solar subscribers.
In this newsletter, we are featuring Diane Nicks. Diane is a “bonafide happy camper” who enjoys gardening. She says SFA has allowed her to spend more time thinking about what to grow and less time worrying about the cost of electricity. Because of subscribers like Diane, SFA community solar projects helped prevent about 35 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions in 2022. That is the emissions equivalent of nearly 40 million miles driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle!
Here is what she had to say about SFA:
Groundswell: What excites you most about your savings through Solar for All?
Diane: I get to do more things like socializing, and other things that I couldn't do, especially in the wintertime paying so much each month for electricity. Now, I think my last electric bill was $12. It really made me conscious of this excess money coming out of my house and out of my pocket every month when I have a limited amount that comes in.
Groundswell: You mentioned that you like to use some of that savings for your garden. How is your garden?
Diane: I've moved into fruits and vegetables. I've got some greens and some carrots. My friends said you can take your pineapples after you take the top off, and you can grow a pineapple tree, and I'm like really? So, I went on YouTube and watched the videos. I can replant almost everything I eat. I just have to learn to do it right. … These days I’m motivated by how I don't have to worry about how long I leave the lights on for the plants.
Groundswell: What do you wish more people knew about Solar for All?
Diane: It’s seamless. I've had no problems, no complaints. You're my knight in shining armor. I just want other people to know that this option is available to them and to find out whether they can get in on it too because it really does benefit all.
Would you like to share your experience in an upcoming Solar for All Newsletter? Let us know at solarforall@groundswell.org or at (202) 505-3051.