Manasota Solar Co-op

The Manasota Solar Co-op has selected Solar Source to install solar panels for the 68-member group. Co-op members selected Solar Source through a competitive bidding process over 7 other firms. They were chosen for their competitive pricing, equipment offerings, and warranty. Solar Source will provide each co-op member with an individualized proposal based on the group rate. By going solar as a group and choosing a single installer, members can save off the cost of going solar and have the support of fellow group members and solar experts at Solar United Neighbors.

The 44-member Manasota Solar Co-op issued a request for proposals (RFP) from area solar installers. The group members created the co-op to save money and make going solar easier, while building a network of solar supporters. The co-op is sponsored by: Gulf Coast Community Foundation; 96.5 WSLR + Fogartyville – Sarasota Community Radio; City of Bradenton; City of Sarasota; Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County; Florida Veterans for Common Sense; League of Women Voters of Manatee County; League of Women Voters of Sarasota County; Manatee Clean Energy Alliance; Manatee County; Peace Education & Action Center; Sarasota County; Sierra Club Manatee-Sarasota Group; Suncoast Climate Justice Coalition. The group also announced it will host information meetings to educate the community about solar and the co-op process. To learn details on when and where these meetings will occur, or to register for any of the free meetings, please visit the Events tab of the co-op’s web page.

Local installers interested in serving the group can download the RFP and response template.
Bids are due Wednesday, May 12 by 5:00 p.m.

The solar co-op is free to join and joining is not a commitment to purchase panels. Co-op members will select a single company to complete all of the installations. They will then have the option to purchase panels individually based on the installer’s group rate. By going solar as a group and choosing a single installer, members can save off the cost of going solar and have the support of fellow group members and solar experts at Solar United Neighbors. Residents of Manatee and Sarasota Counties interested in joining the co-op can sign up at the co-op web page.

The Manasota Solar Co-op is now open to residents of Manatee and Sarasota Counties.

Spread the word to your neighbors, friends, and family to join the co-op! Pass along our link (www.SolarUnitedNeighbors.org/Manasota) so they can sign up as well. If you would like to learn more about our co-op process, the basics of solar, or more information on solar economics check out one of our digital info sessions.  These webinars are live presentations and free to attend. More information and registration can be found under the Events tab on this webpage. Unable to attend one of these? You can view our pre-recorded info session. Please reach out to [email protected] if you have any questions.