Kicking Gas recently announced the launch of Solarize Island County, a solar energy program available now through July 4, according to a press release.

The program will support residents of Island County to install solar panels on their homes and businesses. Residents can reserve free solar assessments at SolarizeIsland.org.

Solarize Island County will be doing a free public workshop at 6 p.m. on April 17 at the Front Room at the Bayview Cash Store.

Solar energy has grown in popularity due to its economic and environmental benefits, but installing solar on your home can seem like a daunting process, from perceived costs, to complicated technical details, to figuring out which installers to choose. That’s why a local nonprofit, Kicking Gas, is sponsoring Solarize Island County, a solar group purchasing program.

Last year Solarize Island County helped over 140 homeowners get free solar assessments, with many of them choosing to contract an installation.

“Kicking Gas is proud to be collaborating with Olympia Community Solar to launch Solarize Island County for a second year,” said Derek Hoshiko, campaign director for Kicking Gas. “Last year, our group solar purchase program Solarize Island County helped a dozen local residents to get clean, green solar power.”

In preparation to launch the campaign, Kicking Gas helped facilitate a competitive bidding process to secure local solar installers. They vetted contractors for equipment quality, business practices and negotiated special pricing with Whidbey Sun & Wind and Western Solar to ensure participants get a great deal.

To be part of Solarize Island County, sign up for a free home assessment at SolarizeIsland.org. A Solarize installer will conduct an assessment of your home or business and provide a detailed proposal at the campaign’s discounted rate. If you choose to contract, the installer will schedule the date of installation. Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union is providing special solar financing for Solarize participants. The knowledgeable staff at Kicking Gas will also be available to answer questions, take a second look at proposals and guide participants through the process.

Solarize customers benefit from reduced energy bills thanks to their solar production and net metering. Net metering is an agreement between a customer and their utility that allows them to earn utility bill credits for any extra energy that flows back into the electrical grid. Customers can offset their entire electrical bill with solar, except for their fixed monthly customer charge.