Harmony Co-op proposed installing a solar awning to generate electricity and protect products. An energy audit found the store used less energy than comparable stores. The co-op's vision was a solar awning on the south side to provide shade and power. A member pledge drive raised $9,200 of the $21,000 estimated cost. The installation was the first solar project on a business in Bemidji, making a public statement about solar power and laying groundwork for future renewable projects.

1. Harmony Co-op
Solar Awning
Project
CHRISTINE
SAZAMA
Harmony Co-op

3. • Harmony’s 2nd End
Statement: Harmony strives
to promote and restore
healthful, sustainable,
environmental practices.

4. Inspection, survey & analysis of
energy flow
Energy Audit

5. Gas Space Heating 17%
Gas Base Use (non-
heating) 6%
Estimated Lightening 13%
Remainder Electricity 64%
Typical Electrical Use for Food
Retail Refrigeration = 47%
Harmony’s Breakdown
Of Energy Use

6. * 3 years of electrical, gas & water
usage data
* Harmony’s energy star score was
100%
* Translation: 65% less energy
consumed than comparable stores

7. The Vision
* Installation of a solar awning on
the south side of Harmony Coop

8. * Dual purpose of providing a
needed awning to protect product
& generate electricity

9. * Custom racking
* Installation
* Permitting
* Estimated cost of project
$21,000

10. Member-Owner Pledge Drive
Levels:
• Star - $500+
• Solar Storm - $250 ~ $499
• Solar Flare - $100 ~ $249
• Sun Spot - $1 ~ $99

11. * Summer Solstice party
* In-Store Display & Community
Donations
* BHS Environmental Club
Total Donations = $9200.00

12. Installation
1 2
3 4

13. Installation
1 2
3 4

14. Community Forums:
* Public Forum
* Business Forum

15. * Local sustainability tour
* State sustainability tour

16. More than just a solar awning…
* First solar installation on a business
in Bemidji
* Public statement to feasibility of
solar power
* Infrastructure for future renewable
energy projects
Thank you!