Making the most of the midnight sun

WASILLA — Alternative energy source usage continues to gain in popularity around the world and here in Alaska, things are no different. Advances, especially in solar energy, have made it attractive to individuals living off the grid as well as those with living in a more urban area.

Here in the Mat-Su, those wanting everything from a complete install to repairs on existing solar systems now have a new choice with the recent opening of 907 Solar. Proprietor Coley Foster opened up shop the middle of last month and brings with him a passion for solar power. After retiring from the Army in 2011, he furthered his education completing degrees in renewable energy as well as business management.

At the same time, Foster bought property near Point MacKenzie. In addition to building his own cabin, Foster installed a solar system allowing him to live free of monthly electric bills. He also installed one for a neighbor who also didn’t want to pay the associated costs of running electric lines for a traditional hookup. He also was a solar contractor in the Mat-Su for an Anchorage-based company but that became burdensome at times.

“I would be out in the bush on an install and realize that they forgot a part or sent the wrong one,” Foster said. He said the shortcoming usually resulted in wasting a large amount of time running back for what should have been sent the first time. He said people appear pleased to have a closer location.

“People are ecstatic about not having to go to Anchorage,” Foster said.

Foster said a complete solar system—which includes solar panels, batteries, a backup generator, inverter, and wiring—for the average standard home runs between $10,000-$15,000, depending on the system required. A 1,500-watt system for the average bush camp is about $2,000. That includes 907 Solar doing the complete install. However, those interested in going solar and willing to put forth a little effort can save themselves some cash.

Foster said 907 Solar will, for a flat fee, offer people the opportunity to do the labor themselves. The idea is to have a customer attend a one-day session at 907 Solar where, with Foster’s guidance, persons purchasing a system will learn how to do everything from assembling the solar array (panels), to prepping all needed wiring.

“It’s a lot better when people understand what the pieces do. They are a lot more able to troubleshoot any problems,’ Foster said. “They can manage their systems themselves or at least know what to mess with and what not to mess with. And it saves them a bundle of money.”

Foster said by the time participants leave at the end of the workshop, they will have all components, with the possible exception of the solar panel array, ready to install. For those less adventurous, 907 Solar can do the install as well.

Foster is quick to point out his company is also there after the sale. 907 Solar will also assist with systems it didn’t sell or install. Foster doesn’t limit himself to just the Mat-Su or size of the job. He is available statewide for everything from a cabin install to a large office building or lodge.

“We’re always here for support phone calls. I also plan on offering classes every month. Topics might be on the basics, maintenance or the benefits of going off-grid,” he said. “Power systems are pretty important. And we’ll do our part to get you what you need. Our inventory will grow as time goes on and includes repair parts.”

Foster said he is expecting a major supply shipment next week but welcomes the public to stop by with questions and to see the benefits of going solar. A grand opening is also in the works.

“We’ll have a grand opening sometime in June,” Foster said. “I’m super-excited. I love doing this stuff. Love to empower people to live where they want.”

907 Solar is located at 224 South Sylvan Lane, Suite 26, off Parks Highway, across from the Holiday gas station near the intersection of the Parks Highway and Pittman Road. The phone number is 907-302-2372 or toll free 855-907-SOLR. Or, visit the business’s Facebook page at 907 Solar.