ABOUT THE GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGYTM SUN CLUBTM
Solar power—pollution-free energy from the sun— is an important and growing resource in the quest for a cleaner, more sustainable world. That’s why Green Mountain Energy Company created the Sun Club: a voluntary program to give our customers yet one more way to make a difference for the environment. Through our members direct contributions we have installed almost 5000 kW of new solar power on the roofs and campuses of worthy non-profits and helped educate the surrounding communities on the importance of this resource.
Green Mountain EnergyTM Sun ClubTM Mission Statement:
To fund, build and promote solar power while assisting non-profit organizations with a socially-responsible focus to reduce their environmental footprints and better serve their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Membership Questions
Q: Can I cancel my membership in the Sun Club at any time without penalty?
A: Yes, there is no obligation to remain in the Sun Club. You can cancel your membership at any time and with no penalty.
Q: Where is the tree planted in my honor for signing up and is it marked with my name?
A: The Texas chapter works with American Forest to plant trees in several reforestation projects. There are no markers in the forest or on the trees with the names of our members. However, the trees, animals and Earth thank you! The New York chapter makes a donation on behalf of NY members to MillionTreesNYC.
Q: Where can I find the priority call center phone number if I lose my Sun Club welcome kit?
A: Texas members can find the phone number on their Green Mountain Energy® electricity invoices. New York members will need to call the regular Green Mountain customer care line and as a representative for it for future reference. That number is: 800-636-5690.
Q: Are my contributions to the Sun Club tax deductable?
A: No, neither Green Mountain Energy Company nor the Sun Club are non-profit organizations. However, 100% of your contribution to the Sun Club goes to the chapter in your state.
Q: Can Sun Club members recommend non-profits to be considered for solar donations?
A: Absolutely! We encourage all our members to spread the word about this great program to non-profits in their communities. Encourage them to apply online and be considered for a future solar donation.
Solar Donation Application Questions
Q: Can I apply for a solar donation for my home?
A: Sorry, no. Solar donations are reserved for non-profit organizations with socially-responsible missions. The exception to this rule is on a home for the needy built through a non-profit such as Habitat for Humanity.
Q: Does the Sun Club donate the actual solar facility and own it?
A: No, the Sun Club donates the funds for the organization to purchase the solar facility. The organization is also the owner of the solar installation, owns the contract and warranty with the installer and manufacturer, and is ultimately responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of it.
Q: Does the Sun Club only donate funds to purchase solar electric arrays?
A: No, the Sun Club has donated funds for the installation of solar electric, solar hot water heaters and solar educational materials. We are open to new ideas from creative organizations interested in promoting solar energy in all its uses.
Q: How big are the donations given away each year?
A: The size of the donations are dependent on the need of the organization, the number of applicants and the available funds collected from our generous members. Past donations have ranged from a few thousand dollars to $140,000. When possible we also take advantage of grants and rebates available from third parties to help make the donation go even further.
Q: Can my organization apply for a solar donation at any time?
A: Yes, we are always accepting new applications for solar donations. However, recipients for the next calendar year are chosen in the late summer of the previous year. A call for applications is typically sent out in the early summer requesting applicants before the deadline. Any applications received after the deadline will be considered the following year.
Q: How much insurance is needed to own a solar facility?
A: That will vary from installation to installation. You will need to speak to your own insurance agent to know that true cost.
Q: What type of maintenance is required for a typical solar array?
A: Because there are no moving parts, very little.
Q: How long will a solar array last?
A: The typical warranty on parts is 25 years. The warranty on installation varies between installers.
Q: Does the Sun Club help its recipient organizations find the right installer for their solar installations?
A: Yes, we are very experienced with the bidding process and have worked with several solar installers we know and trust. We also are happy to leave it up to the organization to handle the bidding process if that is their preference.
Q: What is required to be considered as a solar donation recipient?
A: See the basic requirements under the Apply for a Donation tab.