Raccoon Valley Electric Cooperative (RVEC) CEO, James Bagley, is excited to announce plans for construction of community solar arrays in both Sac and Carroll Counties. Although the specific locations have not yet been determined, the plan is to have the first solar array in operation by early 2017 with the second to follow in 2018. “This is an important step for our member-owners,” Bagley said. “Many want to be involved in renewable energy, but are not finding solar panels or wind turbines affordable options. The economies of scale of community solar allows Raccoon Valley Electric Cooperative to provide an affordable way for members to know that a portion of the electricity they use is helping the environment.” The 150 kilowatt solar arrays will generate a combined, estimated total of over 420,000 kilowatt-hours per year. The arrays will be considered a demonstration project and will provide real-time data of solar output for members and other interested parties. The cooperative will be offering members the opportunity to lease one or more solar panels and several funding options will be made available. RVEC will apply for a Rural Energy for America (REAP) grant and utilize financing through Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (C
