Powering a Greener Future: Making Solar Energy Accessible in Northern Michigan
Earth Month is a time to reflect on the choices we make and the impact they have on the world around us. At BARC, sustainability isn’t just a once-a-year conversation, it’s a daily commitment rooted in community, and long-term environmental responsibility.
As April 22nd approaches, we’re proud to introduce a new initiative that brings those values to life in a meaningful way: a partnership with the team at CBS Solar to make solar energy more accessible to Northern Michigan residents!
Why Solar Matters: The Environmental Impact
As conversations around sustainability continue to evolve, solar energy has emerged as one of the most impactful solutions for reducing our environmental footprint—both locally and globally.
Solar power has rapidly become a dominant force in how the world generates electricity. According to the International Energy Agency, solar PV is on track to surpass coal in installed power capacity by 2027, becoming the largest source of electricity generation worldwide. In fact, global solar capacity is expected to nearly triple in the coming years.
This shift is significant. By switching, you reduce greenhouse emissions and dependency on fossil fuels, which reduces your carbon footprint and raises energy independence. Every solar panel installed contributes to a cleaner energy grid and a more sustainable future!
A Smarter Path to Solar
Solar energy has long been viewed as a powerful but often expensive investment. While the benefits—lower utility bills, reduced environmental impact, and energy independence—are clear, the upfront cost can be a barrier for many households. That’s where this program comes in.
Through this partnership, we’re offering pre-owned solar PV at the BARC Resale Shop for just $100 each. These panels are fully functional and sourced from homeowners upgrading to newer, higher-efficiency systems. This program creates an opportunity to extend the life of existing materials while also opening the door for more people to participate in solar energy.
Built on Experience and Purpose
With nearly 25 years of experience in designing, installing, and maintaining both grid-tied and off-grid solar systems, CBS Solar has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, forward-thinking energy solutions for both residential and commercial properties.
For CEO Allan O’Shea, sustainability has always been personal, shaping a company philosophy centered on repair, reuse, and repurposing long before it became industry standard. Driven by a mission to make solar energy a primary power source for communities, CBS Solar is rooted in the belief that access to clean, renewable energy should not be limited. Their team combines deep technical expertise with a passion for innovation, offering advanced solutions like solar tracking systems that follow the sun for maximum efficiency and proprietary nano-coating technology that helps panels stay cleaner and perform better over time.
As solar technology evolves, many of their customers are upgrading to larger, more efficient systems. Instead of discarding older panels that still have years of life left, CBS Solar saw an opportunity to extend their impact with BARC. Together, we align on the philosophy of repair, reuse, repurpose, and recycle, which is at the core of this partnership. By making solar more accessible to our shared community, we can reduce waste while increasing the value of existing resources. It’s a win-win!
Saving Money on Energy Costs
With energy prices continuing to climb—recently marked by one of the largest rate increases in decades—more households are feeling the strain of monthly utility bills.
Even a modest solar setup can make a difference. According to EnergySage reports, the average US homeowner can save between $37,000 and $154,000 over 25 years with solar panels depending on your area’s electricity costs.
For many, this program may be the first step into solar—one that feels realistic, approachable, and aligned with both financial and environmental goals.
Community-Led Impact
What began as an idea quickly gained momentum. We already sold out of the first batch of panels at the Kaleva Resale Shop! The response has been overwhelmingly positive. This is what meaningful change looks like: local organizations coming together, leveraging expertise and resources, and creating solutions that meet people where they are. The program is just beginning and there is much to do.
Looking Ahead
This partnership is just the beginning. As we continue to expand access to renewable energy solutions, our goal is to help Northern Michigan move toward a more eco-friendly, energy-conscious future. If you’ve been curious about solar, this is your opportunity to explore it in a way that’s both affordable and impactful!