harmoney food cooperative solar awning project in bemidji, mn

Harmony Co-op Solar Awning

ProjectCHRISTINE SAZAMA

Harmony Co-op

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

Inspection, survey & analysis of energy flow

Energy Audit

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 BreakdownOf Energy Use

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

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

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

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

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

* Summer Solstice party * In-Store Display & Community Donations * BHS Environmental Club

Total Donations = $9200.00

Installation

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Installation

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Community Forums:* Public Forum* Business Forum

* Local sustainability tour

* State sustainability tour

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!