PORTAGE COUNTY, WI. (WAOW)– An area nonprofit is creating a space for Wisconsinites to move toward renewable energy.
Sunny days in Amherst are some of Mary Patoka’s favorites. For 40 years Patoka and her husband have been looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. In August of 2021, they decided to put 30 solar panels on their garage.
“We have always looked at those applications that can help from an energy point of view and a cost point of view,” Patoka said. “The incentives that can help bring down the costs of the system were attractive.”
Incentives that reduced her $30,000 project by nearly $10,000. A combination of federal tax credits, utility rebates and The Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) Grow Solar project.
The MREA aims to bring solar energy to central Wisconsin’s community, municipalities and organizations by making it easier and more affordable.
“Our programs help costumers work together to leverage their buying power to reduce the cost of putting solar on their home or business,” said Executive Director of MREA Nick Hylla.
While purchasing solar energy is expensive upfront, MREA works to help people reduce their costs. Hylla said that as inflation continues to rise solar energy can cut costs.
“You are kind of hedging against future energy price inflation, especially through your utility bill,” Hylla said.
In less than a year since installing solar panels, Patoka said she is on track to reduce her electric bill by over 70%.
