press release:
The West Seattle Solar Project (www.thewestseattlesolarproject.com) is a new and innovative group purchase project aimed at helping West Seattle residents and businesses save time and money in the process of going solar.

The West Seattle Solar Project (WSSP) is the first campaign of The Cascadia Solar Project (www.thecascadiasolarproject.com), whose mission is to jumpstart and dramatically increase the number of PV installations around the Puget Sound, especially in neighborhoods where few installations currently exist.

The project provides a streamlined process for residents and small businesses to register, learn, and purchase solar systems as a group. All systems will use Made-In-Washington modules and inverters, and all participants will receive the same low $/watt price. The only major variables will be system size and whether or not the customer wants financing.

Vashon-based Artisan Electric Inc. will be the project manager for the campaign, and is currently collaborating with members of community groups such as Sustainable West Seattle and CoolMom to get the word out. Additional partners include Silicon Energy, a Marysville-based solar module and inverter manufacturer, and Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union (PSCCU), a local credit union that provides solar financing in the Puget Sound region.

Registration for the limited-time campaign began on Monday, March 19th, and is open to West Seattle residents and businesses in 98116, 98126, 98136 and 98146 zip codes. Free educational workshops will be held throughout the West Seattle area on March 31st, April 14th, May 2nd, May 26th and June 24th. All participants in the project will receive free solar site assessments. The group intends to install over 200 kilowatts of solar energy in West Seattle by summer of 2012.

For additional information, visit www.thewestseattlesolarproject.com.

About Artisan Electric Inc.: Founded in 2007, Artisan Electric is a full service residential and commercial electrical contractor specializing in solar PV design and installation. www.artisanelectricinc.com

About Sustainable West Seattle: Sustainable West Seattle is a local community organization dedicating to educating, creating and advocating for urban sustainability in our local community. www.sustainablewestseattle.org/

About Silicon Energy: Silicon Energy is a Washington State solar module and inverter manufacturer. Based in Marysville, Silicon Energy’s Cascade Series solar modules are building-integrated and one of the most durable in the world. www.silicon-energy.com

About Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union (PSCCU): PSCCU is a leading solar financer in the Puget Sound area. The credit union has been committed to helping homeowners finance a greener tomorrow since 1934. http://psccu.org/

Contact: Evan Leonard, Solar Project Manager, 206-412-4840