SBS Solar recently installed a 23.8 kW solar electric system at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center in Hamilton MT.  BAC provides swimming lessons for all levels, from beginner to advanced, and conducts water aerobics classes for all ages.  The facility features indoor and outdoor pools and  a splash pad and waterslides for summer use.

BAC recently received a USB (Universal Service Benefit) Grant that provided partial funding for their new solar electric system.

Does your nonprofit qualify for a USB grant?

Under this program (with these guidelines the E+ Renewable Energy Program (NorthWestern Energy) provides custom incentives for projects that benefit organizations and communities for non-profit or government facilities.  Projects receiving these funds often provide civic value including education and visible representation of renewable energy technologies to a broad audience. Broad Benefit Commercial solar PV incentives are awarded twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.

The 5 criteria used  to rank proposals are as follows:

1. Non Profit
2. Geographic Location
3. Participant Match ( at least 10%)
4. Educational Value
5. System Maintenance