Walpole, NH (January 27, 2022) – Farmers are the heart of our region: providing fresh produce, caring for the land, and nourishing our community. With farmers being key to our local food system and conservation priorities, it is crucial that they too are supported.
New Hampshire farmers face significant energy expenses. The Monadnock Region Community Supported Solar Project (CSS) brings together farmers, investors, and champions to help local farmers be a part of the renewable energy economy.
On Tuesday, February 1st, Cheshire County Conservation District (CCCD) is launching a crowdfunding campaign to support the CSS program! The campaign will run until Thursday, March 3rd. All proceeds will go directly to making solar more accessible and affordable to local farmers!
How Does CSS Work?
Interested farmers can purchase a solar share. Once a share is purchased, farmers will be a member of the Farmers Members Group, made up of the farmers who have also purchased a share. The participating farms will enter into a Limited Liability Company (LLC) named Community Supported Solar for Farms with an operating agreement, and will benefit from stable low cost electricity. This Farmers LLC will work together with CCCD and investors to take ownership of a solar array in 6 years through a buyout. The array has already been built at Sun Moon Farm of Rindge, NH.
After the buyout happens, the farmers group will own the system into the future and members will benefit from net metering based on shares owned in the system. CSS shares are still available on a first come first served basis! Interest farmers can contact District Manager, Amanda Littleton at 603-756-2988 ext 4. or email info@cheshireconservation.org
CSS increases the viability of local farms, advances the sustainability of our region, and in turn, strengthens our local food system!
Another way to support this important initiative is by forwarding this email to colleagues, friends, and family! Help us spread the word and strengthen our impact!
Interested businesses and organization can donate a Sponsored Reward to our effort. It’s an ideal way to show support and get some marketing attention, too!
Thank you for helping us support those who grow the food on our plate!
The Cheshire County Conservation District promotes the conservation and responsible use of our natural and agricultural resources for the people of Cheshire County by providing technical, financial, and educational assistance. Our goal is to encourage the stewardship of healthy soils, productive ecologically sound farms, diverse wildlife, productive sustainable forests, healthy watersheds, and clean water to ensure those resources are available for future generations. Established in 1945, the Conservation District operates out of Walpole NH where we work alongside the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and other conservation partners. For more information, contact the Conservation District at 603-756-2988 ext.4.
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