Solar Panel production delayed!

Solar energy has become a daily topic of discussion, not only in the building and construction industry, but to residential home owners. Seattle Times reporter, Nicole Tsong,  wrote recently, "With utilities bills soaring, some Seattleites turning to solar power." With new incentives expected this year and federal tax breaks solar installations will not only be an ecological investment but cost effective. Read Tsong's article including comparisons of solar systems and costs.   (Seattle Times 4-19-08)

In the light of increasing knowledge and demand for renewable energy in the Northwest, we are facing a solar crisis.

21 Acres appeals to our supporters with an urgent request.

From Gretchen Garth, Board President

Our goal of building one of the first Platinum LEED certified buildings in the United States is very close to being met! Yet, as we approach the groundbreaking for the 21 Acres Center for Local Food and Sustainable Living, I write to you with an urgent request. 

Last week, one of our vendors, Sunergy Systems, sent word that their solar panels are just about sold out.  They now project that the production of new panels will be delayed until Fall of 2009 when they complete new facilities in Canada.  We are faced with the choice of purchasing available panels now and storing them−or waiting 1 ½ years to acquire them.

The Sunergy Systems panels are a critical part of the renewable systems throughout the Agricultural Center and will be the primary energy source for the farmers market, classrooms and kitchenettes. They will be installed adjacent to the Living Roof to demonstrate the two different technologies and their effects on the environment−thus serving both operational and educational purposes.  We chose Sunergy Systems panels specifically because of their advanced design and do not want to substitute those of another vendor.

In the past five years you have been a critical part of the evolution of 21 Acres from a vision to a mission-oriented, non-profit organization. We stay committed to our mission to cultivate, demonstrate and advance systems that support sustainable agriculture and to educate people on how alternative energies work in ways that are realistic and practical for anyone. 

We welcome your gift of $50, $500, $1,000 or $250,000 to help us purchase the Sunergy Systems panels. Your immediate financial contribution will assist us in maintaining the construction schedule for the 21 Acres Center at the standards we have promised you. 

We thank you for your consideration of this request. We have until May 30, 2008, to let Sunergy Systems know of our decision and hope you will respond soon.

Make your tax-deductible donation here (reference solar panels) or mail to: 21 Acres, PO Box 2001 Woodinville WA 98072