How Clean Energy is Leading the Way in WNC Recovery and Community Resilience
At NC Solar Now, we’ve always believed in the power of solar energy—not just as a clean alternative to fossil fuels, but as a tool for resilience when communities need it most. NCSEA’s June 12 blog, “Clean Energy Shines Bright Amidst the Darkness of Disaster,” resonates deeply with our mission as we witness firsthand how clean energy is fueling recovery and transformation across Western North Carolina
A Devastating Storm—and a Community Rising
After Hurricane Helene struck on September 27, 2024, it left a staggering trail of destruction: more than $59.6 billion in damages, 106 lives lost, and over 185,000 homes impacted. Entire hillsides lost power poles and crucial utility lines, cutting off electricity, water, and communication—vulnerabilities that showcased the limitations of our centralized grid .
Clean Energy in Action
What followed was a remarkable story of resilience through renewable solutions:
- Footprint Project, NCSEA, Land of Sky Regional Council, Greentech Renewables, and others launched a coordinated response, delivering towable microgrids equipped with solar modules and batteries—first responders to disaster.
- Within six weeks, this coalition raised over $850,000, secured more than $1.2 million in pledged equipment, and deployed more than 60 solar-and-battery microgrids across WNC—powering community centers, medical facilities, homes, and communication hubs NC Sustainable Energy Association.
- At Big Ivy Community Center in Barnardsville, for example, solar-powered systems enabled critical services—from running water pumps and charging phones to powering Starlink internet—restoring community lifeline operations NC Sustainable Energy Association.
What This Means for NC Solar Now
As a clean energy provider based right here in North Carolina, NC Solar Now is proud to support and learn from these pioneering efforts. These real-world deployments demonstrate the true potential of solar technology:
- Immediate Impact: Solar microgrids restored essential services quickly, reducing dependency on noisy, polluting diesel generators.
- Resilience: Community facilities regained autonomy—with power, communication, and clean water—days or even weeks before conventional systems could be restored.
- Sustainable Future: The focus is shifting from temporary fixes to long-term solutions—like permanent solar + storage installations at community “resilience hubs.”
Our Role in the Journey
We’re proud to be a Green Sponsor at NCSEA’s benefit concert, held July 31 at Sierra Nevada Brewing. Proceeds will fund further expansion of microgrids and community resilience initiatives.
Join Us in Powering Resilience
At NC Solar Now, we’re committed to more than selling solar panels—we’re building stronger, more resilient communities. As NCSEA reminds us, clean energy isn’t just about reducing carbon—it’s about saving lives, enabling recovery, and ensuring a brighter, more robust future for all Western North Carolinians.
👉 Want to make a difference?
- Attend AMPlify Appalachia on July 31—let’s unite, uplift, and power hope together.
- Get in touch with us to explore how solar + storage can safeguard your community or facility.
About NC Solar Now: NC Solar Now is your trusted local solar installation partner. We are a pioneering force in empowering communities across North Carolina with sustainable energy solutions. As a leading solar provider, we specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining state-of-the-art solar systems tailored to meet the unique needs of our customers.
NC Solar Now takes pride in being certified experts in solar installation, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and professionalism in every project we undertake. Our team consists of highly trained technicians who are certified by leading industry organizations, equipped with the knowledge and expertise to deliver superior solar solutions tailored to your needs.
By choosing NC Solar Now, you can trust that your solar installation will be carried out with precision and attention to detail, meeting and exceeding industry standards. Our certifications not only demonstrate our commitment to excellence but also provide you with peace of mind knowing that your solar system is in the hands of skilled professionals. Experience the difference that certification makes with NC Solar Now and embark on your journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future today.
Committed to innovation, reliability, and environmental stewardship, NC Solar Now transforms spaces, illuminating a brighter, greener future for homes and businesses. Join us in harnessing the sun for a cleaner, more sustainable North Carolina. Our staff is NABCEP Certified!
Furthermore, we are certified by all major brands, including Tesla, Enphase, Franklin, Fortress, SolarEdge, Fronius, REC, QCells, Silfab, Jinko, Ironridge, Unirac and others! Check us out on Facebook or Instagram. Visit us online at NC SOLAR NOW, send us a message, or call us at 919-833-9096.
