Are you curious about alternative energy or photovoltaics and want to know more? Would you like to put solar panels on your house or property? Are you curious about conserving energy, and the costs of alternatives?
This course will give you practical, real-world, and background information on solar panels, solar electricity, and various PV systems. Each class participant models their own solar project, and collects all the information they need to finance, construct, or manage their own solar project. The class comes with a take-home DIY manual that can be used with any solar setup, and also includes lists of resources. There will be a tour of existing working systems, installation basics for roofs and racks, and a means for estimating costs of parts and installations on all systems. Class includes a fifty-page DIY PV booklet.
Note: This class assumes a basic level of knowledge regarding electricity and wiring.
Consider registering for Jon's "Understanding Electricity and Basic Home Wiring" class on March 29 if these topics are new to you! Details and tickets here: https://bookwhen.com/driftlessfolkschool/e/ev-szpt-20250329090000
Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Lunch will be provided.
Ages: Adults only
Level: Intermediate
Materials Fees: $30
Location: Rural Readstown, WI
Instructions: Feel free to bring water, snacks, or something to take notes with if desired.
Sliding Scale Course Fee Guidelines (Not including materials fee)
Supporter Level: $120
This tier reflects the full value of the offering. If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.
Sustainer Level: $95
If you are able to meet your needs with relative ease while budgeting your educational and entertainment spending – for instance, you are able to take multiple classes per year and eat out occasionally as long as you are mindful – consider paying at this level, which will help sustain the work of the Folk School at a modest level.
Supported Level: $70
If you struggle to fund your basic needs and have limited access to resources in your family and community, and/or if you would not be able to access this offering without a discounted payment option, consider paying at this level. We value your presence and contributions to our community and do not want any economic circumstances to be a barrier to attendance!
Instructor Bio - Jon Passi
Jon Passi is an educator and advocate for alternative energy and sustainable technologies. With over 30 years construction experience, he moved to Viroqua in 2006 in order to build an alternative energy, well- insulated, off-grid home. He utilized photovoltaics and batteries for power, an efficient wood stove, and passive solar for heat, solar for water, and radiant floor heat, and a windmill to pump water. Now that the house is done, he cuts wood, designs and installs PV systems, creates poems and music, and tries to live light on the land.