Solar Power Is Becoming More Visible in Cherokee

The Cherokee Welcome Center’s downtown kiosk will soon get solar panels, a microturbine and other energy improvements.Cherokee Preservation Foundation recently made a $374,000 grant to the Strategic Energy Committee of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) so it can create showcase projects in the Tribe's Welcome Center and two smaller visitor information kiosks that will demonstrate renewable energy and energy efficiency projects on the Qualla Boundary. The Committee, which consists of representatives from a number of Tribal departments, was formed several years ago to create a strategic plan to implement the recommendations from 40 energy audits funded by the Foundation and to determine the best renewable energy options available to the EBCI.

In early 2012, all three buildings will be retrofitted with new lighting and HVAC systems, waterless urinals, faucet aerators and dual flush valves. Solar hot water systems will be installed in all three locations as well. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels will be installed at the two kiosks to meet part of their electricity needs, and a small wind turbine will be installed at the downtown visitor kiosk for additional power generation.

In mid-December, Cherokee Preservation Foundation is installing its own solar PV panels. The 14 panels will produce 4,600 kilowatt hours of energy per year, about the amount used in an average 2,500 square foot home in a year.

"We want to help solar energy gain acceptance on the Qualla Boundary by getting Tribal members familiar with seeing solar panels on rooftops and interested in taking similar actions," said Daniel Martin, Program Associate at Cherokee Preservation Foundation. "Solar energy helps consumers save money on their power bills, and it enables people to essentially create their own power plant."

The panels will be visible as you drive on John Crowe Hill Rd. below the back of the Foundation's office, so take a look next time you are there.