The first installation in the region

The Raise the Solar Bar Program will includes the demonstration, installation and use of new battery storage technology coupled with a 20 kW solar PV system at Socorro Senior Living in Pagosa Springs, a Section 202 Program through the Colorado Department of Housing and Urban Development and managed by Housing Solutions for the Southwest.

Anticipated measurable project benefits:

• 31,200 kWh of electricity to be produced annually
• 21.9 metric tons of carbon dioxide prevented annually
• 23,398 lbs of burned coal prevented annually
• Saving an estimated $5,000 annually for Socorro Senior Living
• The Raise the Solar Bar project also includes battery
• storage technology training and educational component for the community.

The project’s battery storage technology will serve as a demonstration site for the installation, operation, and maintenance of this new technology. This would be the first such installation in the region. This project will also demonstrate how the technology can provide backup power during power outages increasing safety for the senior residents, and cut electricity costs by storing energy when rates are low and discharging during high-cost peak hours.

This project is only possible with support and funding from local businesses and sponsors.

LPEA generously supports 4CORE’s renewable energy projects through the Green Power Program. In particular, the local block program. You too, can support local, renewable projects in the area by contributing a small amount on your electric bill. It’s easy to do and be sure to check the “Local(s) block. 

4CORE wins the COSEIA (Colorado Solar Energy Industry Association) first Annual Solar and Energy Storage Award for this innovative, collaborative project!

The award recognizes 4CORE efforts and the solar companies that collaborated to achieve the installation at Socorro Senior Living in Pagosa Springs, which provides a home for 19 lower-income seniors and ensures a level of safety during power outages. It will save residents an estimated $5,000 in yearly electrical costs.

The Environmental Protection Agency selected 4CORE for a $25,000 award to implement the project. La Plata Electric Association matched the funds, with sponsorships from Michael and Elaine Moravan, Britt Bassett, Ilana Stern, the Ballantine Family Fund and First Southwest Bank. SolarWorks, Living Solar, Flat Rock Solar and Dobson Solar also contributed to the project.

A Model to Inspire Independence

Supplying Solar to those who Need it Most.

The solar energy sector is vital and growing in Colorado. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association:

• Colorado ranked ninth in the nation for installed solar capacity, with 540 MW of solar energy installed as of April 2016.
• Colorado is home to more than 400 solar companies, employing about 5,000 people throughout the state.
• $305 million was invested in solar installations in Colorado in 2015.
• Average installed photovoltaic system prices in Colorado fell 18% between 2014 and 2015.
  Locally, the LPEA service area has over 700 installed solar systems.

New Energy Storage Technology

The Tesla Powerwall is a battery for homes and small businesses that stores the sun’s energy and delivers clean, reliable electricity when the sun isn’t shining. Combine Powerwall, solar and an electric vehicle to create a zero emission lifestyle.

• Use more of your solar power: Most homes use a fraction of the solar energy they collect. Instead of sending excess solar energy into the grid, Powerwall stores it for use any time.
• Your path off grid: Combine solar and one or more Powerwalls to power your home independently from the utility grid.
• Backup your home: Powerwall protects your home during a power outage, keeping your lights, Wi-Fi and refrigerator running.