Making the Motor City a Solar City Tour

NEWCC and Solar Neighbors are hosting our Second Annual “Making the Motor City a Solar City” Solar Tour, featuring in-person and virtual events. Participants must register in advance, and will be entered into a raffle drawing for one of six solar-themed prizes, including a solar generator!

Join us in-person for a bus tour to solar sites around the city, including a tour of the IBEW Local 58 net-zero facility. Come visit us at 7700 2nd Ave and try a s’more from our solar oven, take a ride on our solar-powered e-bike, play solar-themed games, or take home a DIY solar toy. Can’t make it in-person? Log on to one of our virtual sessions:

12:00 pm: So-Light Tutorial and Workshop with Inventor Alice Chun
Join us for a hands-on workshop tutorial, for all ages, with Apple TV Series Gutsy star and world recognized inventor Alice Chun. Alice will guide you step by step in making your own Origami Solar Light. This virtual tutorial is perfect for children and adults alike! (Materials for the light workshop will be provided upon Zoom registration, at no cost).

1:00pm: Making the Motor City a Solar City Guided Tour – A NEWCC Exclusive
Join Rev. Joan Ross and Dr. Karen Russell on a tour of some of the amazing solar sights that we’ve found in the City, from the comfort of your own home. Hear the thoughts and the passion of the people who have seen a future in solar energy and have established Detroit as a place for solar development. Learn why solar will benefit our community, and how it can work to power your home or business. This virtual video tour will take you along for the ride as we explore some of our favorite solar sites throughout the city! Complete with our tour guide’s commentary and exclusive interviews with “Solar Neighbors” who are already taking advantage of solar benefits.

2:00pm: The Price is Right – How YOU Can Afford Solar: The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has provided an opportunity for low-to-moderate income households to participate in the historically and exclusively expensive solar market. This panel discussion will present information on the benefits of the IRA, and the different options that are now available for financing and funding your residential solar and energy efficiency projects.

Moderated by Megan Husted, Project Director for Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association

Panelists include:
Marnese Jackson, Co-Director at Midwest Building Decarbonization Coalition
Eli Lieberman, Director of Clean Energy Financing at Michigan Saves
Jack Akinlosotu, Director of Sustainability at the City of Detroit