The American Solar Energy Society, or ASES, organizes the National Solar Tour, the world's largest grassroots solar event, according to its website, http://www.nationalsolartour.org/

The website also says, "This event offers you the opportunity to tour innovative green homes and buildings to see how you can use solar energy, energy efficiency, and other sustainable technologies to reduce monthly utility bills and help tackle climate change. More than 160,000 participants will visit some 5,500 buildings in 3,200 communities across the U.S.

"Now in its 15th year, this event is coordinated nationally by the nonprofit American Solar Energy Society in collaboration with dozens of outstanding partner organizations. It takes place annually during the first Saturday in October in conjunction with National Energy Awareness Month."

This year's West Seattle Solar Tour kickoff point is at 6016 B California Ave SW at Solar Epiphany's new showroom, owned by Eric Thomas who owns Red Cup Espresso with wife Tricia. On display are "Made in Washington" and other, solar panels, inverters and micro inverters, solar water heaters, solar lighting, and solar attic fans. There will also be free educational classes throughout the day for those interested, including "Solar for Homeowners class" at noon. Refreshments will be provided. Doors open at 10am.

For more information contact Eric Thomas at (206) 919-3014. Here are the West Seattle tour locations:

The Go House 2118 42nd Ave SW
Jennings Residence 2205 41st Avenue SW
Red Cup Espresso 4451 California Ave SW
Seattle Solar Farm 4708 46th Ave. SW
Blake Residence 5058 38th Ave SW
Schneider Residence 6739 36th Ave SW
Hughes Residence 6921 34th Ave SW
Bill & Tonya Reiswig 7102 30th ave SW