CAN Mini-Grant Funding is Laying the Groundwork for a More Just Energy Transition

In 2022, the Central Appalachian Network (CAN) had the opportunity to distribute Rapid Response Mini-Grants to fund projects for CAN Clean Energy Clean Working Group participants to advance and defend clean energy policies in Virginia, Tennessee, West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. These are the success stories of those grants. Energy Efficient West Virginia (EEWV) is […]

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SFF Success Story: High Rocks Educational Corporation

PROJECT DETAILS FUNDING: In September 2022, the Appalachian Solar Finance Fund awarded High Rocks Educational Corporation a $14,630 grant as part of High Rocks’ $56,275 total investment in a solar installation. PLACEMENT: Construction on a 19-kilowatt solar array was completed in April 2023 on High Rocks’ campus by local installer Solar Holler. ENERGY SAVINGS: Its […]

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CEWG Mini Grant Powers Professionals to Go Electric!

In 2022, CAN had the opportunity to distribute Rapid Response Mini-Grants to fund projects for CAN Clean Energy Clean Working Group participants to advance and defend clean energy policies in Virginia, Tennessee, West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. These are the success stories of those grants. Rural Action is driving to a future that uplifts Appalachian […]

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How to Use SFF Funding For Your NONPROFIT

Build a brighter future for your nonprofit and community by powering your organization with solar energy! Adding solar panels can bring big cost savings to your bottom line. Nonprofit organizations, including homeless shelters, educational institutions, medical centers, and faith institutions, can apply for a direct grant sub-award to offset up to 20% of total project […]

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SOLAR SUCCESS STORY: Good Works, Inc.

PROJECT DETAILS FUNDING: The Appalachian Solar Finance Fund awarded Good Works $8,250 in October 2022, adding to a $31,755 total investment. PLACEMENT: Appalachian Renewable Power Systems (ARP Solar) donated volunteer labor, placing an 11-kW solar array on the building. ENERGY SAVINGS: Good Works’ solar installation is set to offset over half of the organization’s annual […]

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SOLAR SUCCESS STORY: Moonbow at 2nd & Main

  PROJECT DETAILS FUNDING: Moonbow at 2nd & Main was awarded $6,276 in Solar Finance Fund technical assistance cost support in June 2022. PLACEMENT: A 27-kW rooftop solar array was installed on a historic downtown building that now serves as a local event venue with on-site lodging and retail space. ENERGY SAVINGS: After their first […]

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Appalachian Solar Finance Fund Releases First Impact Report

The Appalachian Solar Finance Fund (SFF) released its first impact report detailing how it is powering a new energy future across Central Appalachia. The SFF is supported by the Appalachian Regional Commission’s POWER Initiative. This project is one of 57 awards across 184 coal-impacted counties, receiving a total of $46.4 million. SFF is a regional […]

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Solar Panels and Mountains

How to Use SFF Funding For Your FARM

Imagine the sun doing double duty on your farm by growing your agricultural products while also powering your equipment and infrastructure. Installing solar power solutions is a bonus for your bottom line. Get direct funding & assistance for your farm’s solar projects The Appalachian Solar Finance Fund https://solarfinancefund.org/index.php/how-it-works/ jump-starts emerging local solar markets in Central […]

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Solar United Neighbors launches SUNtober to shed light on solar

Solar can be a complex topic. But not during SUNtober! Solar United Neighbors is hosting a month-long series of virtual sessions about solar energy. Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to go solar from real solar homeowners, speak with nationally acclaimed solar experts, and connect with fellow solar supporters from around the country.

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New White Paper: Clean Energy Investment In Appalachia

CLEAN energy development in Appalachia is an important part of the REGION’S transition to a more just, sustainable, and resilient economy. Investment is a major barrier to an otherwise promising solar sector. What can be done? This white paper examines the current barriers to investment and proposes a focus on “catalytic capital” to unlock more solar investment in the region and accelerate the clean energy sector in Appalachia.

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2019 CAN Regional Peer-to-Peer Convening

This past November, the Central Appalachian Network hosted its 2nd Regional Peer-to-Peer Convening at Tamarack in Beckley, WV. Over 100 economic development practitioners, community change makers, funders, and sector experts gathered at the Convening to connect and build their shared regional analysis for the Central Appalachian region. This year’s Convening offered attendees 4 different session […]

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On Farm Energy & REAP Program Information

Last month the Food & Ag System Working Group hosted a learning call to share information on the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The REAP program aids farmers in financing renewable energy sources or making energy efficiency improvements.  Colleagues from our Clean Energy Working Group joined the call to share their expertise on the […]

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