The National Solar Tour is the nation’s largest grassroots solar event making open house tours of energy efficient and solar-powered buildings available to the public.

TAMPA BAY – Folks across Tampa Bay will have a chance this weekend to find out about solar energy first hand at open houses hosted by residents and businesses who are using solar energy.

What is a solar open house? It’s a chance to see solar panels up close, ask questions about how solar works, learn about why people community made the choice to go solar, and connect with other people in your community who support solar energy. This events, scheduled for Saturday (Oct. 5) and Sunday (Oct. 6),  are free and open to the public. Everyone is welcome to attend. Interested attendees can find an event near them and  RSVP to attend a National Solar Tour site at: nationalsolartour.org.

Thus far, there are events in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties.

The events are hosted by the American Solar Energy Society and Solar United Neighbors, but it’s a grassroots movement. More than 400 organizations, installers, and nonprofits locally coordinate, sponsor, and promote these open houses. This year’s tour features more than 850 sites across the U.S..

According to the group’s website, the National Solar Tour is the nation’s largest grassroots solar event.

“There’s no better solar ambassador than people who’ve gone solar themselves,” said Anya Schoolman, executive director of Solar United Neighbors. “We look forward to the tour inspiring people across the country to go solar.”

Tour attendees will be able to observe solar systems in operation and speak with their owners about their experience of going solar. Sites will also have educational materials about solar technology and the process of going solar.

“The National Solar Tour inspires people across the country to make sustainable energy choices,” said Carly Rixham, ASES executive director. “Going solar allows people to reduce costs, support energy independence, protect against power outages, and reduce carbon emissions,”

Solar United Neighbors helps people go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights. It helps thousands of people go solar every year through bulk purchases known as “solar co-ops” as well as through a paid membership programs. Members receive on-going support for their solar system, discounts to businesses that have solar, and join a community of solar supporters to ensure their investment in solar is protected.

ASES is the nation’s leading association of renewable energy professionals and advocates. It has regional chapters in 41 states and the District of Columbia. It publishes the award-winning SOLAR TODAY magazine, and the e-newsletter Solar@Work for renewable energy professionals. It also hosts the ASES National Solar Conference.

Interested attendees can RSVP to attend a National Solar Tour site at: nationalsolartour.org.