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Hennepin County Climate Action

Reduce your carbon footprint and save money by converting to solar

Hennepin County partners with nonprofit Solar United Neighbors (SUN) to offer Switch Together, a group buying program to help residents save on the cost of solar installations. Switch Together offers residents a hassle-free way to lower their electric bills and reduce their carbon footprint by installing high-quality solar.

Learn more about Switch Together.

How solar works

Illustration of house with solar on roof connected to power lines

Here is an overview of how solar panels create energy at your home.

  1. A group of solar panels wired together is called an array. The solar panels use solar photovoltaic (PV) technology that converts sunlight to electricity.

  2. The energy from the array flows to an inverter that converts the direct current (DC) created by the solar array into alternating current (AC), which is what is used in your home.

  3. AC electricity flows from the inverter into your home’s electrical panel and powers your home’s electronic appliances and devices.

  4. Your home uses as much energy as it needs from the array. Solar power that you don’t use flows through your utility meter and onto the electrical grid. Since electricity seeks the closest draw, it is then used by your neighbors.

Other actions

trees at a park

The climate-fighting power of trees

May is Arbor Month, and this year we’re celebrating the important role that trees play in fighting climate change and getting to net zero greenhouse gas emissions. Learn about the climate benefits of trees and steps you can take to protect them.

Kids walking on sidewalk in snow

Preparing for winter weather in a changing climate

Minnesota winters provide a variety of exciting opportunities – whether that be sledding, ice skating, skiing, or curling up under a blanket. But winter also presents many hazards we need to prepare for – including extreme cold, snow, and ice. Learn ways to make sure you are prepared to stay safe this winter.

Mom and kids dancing inside

Staying cool in the summer while saving energy

Staying cool in your home in the hottest months of summer while conserving energy isn’t as hard as you may think. Making your home more energy efficient means you can stay comfortable and save money, even in the warmest months.