Those who utilize solar energy at their home or business are invited to become part of the Chester County Clean Energy Tour. This year's tour will be virtual, and those who visit the tour website will be able to learn about solar energy and its various uses.

Chester County's event will be part of the 26th annual National Solar Tour, presented by the American Solar Energy Society, which showcases solar-powered homes and buildings across the nation.

"We are inviting businesses large and small, schools and houses of worship to showcase what we can do in our own community to harness free energy from the sun to generate electricity, warm and cool our buildings, heat water and (reduce) monthly utility bills," said Nora Ziegler, a retired public school teacher and a Chester County resident who is coordinating the Chester County portion of the Clean Energy Tour.

She noted that the tour was held in person in 2019, but that it moved to a virtual format in 2020 because of the pandemic. Organizers decided to make this year's tour virtual as well. "2020 was the first time that the solar tour had ever (gone virtual). We did have about 15 homes last year, but we are working hard to get other types of buildings this year," said Ziegler.

Previous years have highlighted Camphill Village Kimberton Hills, whose solar system powers several of its buildings, including its cafe. Several municipal facilities were on the tour in 2019, including those in Uwchlan Township, which used state incentives to install electric vehicle charging stations at its township office. In southern Chester County, the tour included two large solar installations at Longwood Gardens and Marlboro Mushrooms.

"Last year, we (highlighted) a family business - Lani Ice in Ludwigs Corner, which is solar powered," said Ziegler. Lani Ice offers smoothies, shaved ice other products from its solar-powered trailer.

Those interested in participating on the tour will be asked to submit photos and a three-minute video about their use of solar power. Technical help will be provided if needed.

This year, a live, in-person event at the West Vincent Community Day on Saturday, Sept. 25, will serve as the kickoff to the Chester County Clean Energy Tour. The virtual tour, with videos and photo presentations, will be available at http://www.nationalsolartour.org, starting on Saturday, Oct. 2.

"Chester County ranks second in solar installations in the state," Ziegler pointed out. "For the last two years, we have led the nation in local clean energy open houses. People who are interested in the concept and don't know that much about it (are encouraged to participate). Maybe they are thinking about using solar at their homes."

Those interested in showcasing their use of solar power in the tour are asked to complete an interest form at http://www.nationalsolartour.org. The Clean Energy Tour is free and open to the public, and participating sites also do not have to pay a fee.

For more details, contact Ziegler at noraziegler@me.com.