Free Solar Info Event on Thursday, August 28

Published on August 21, 2025

Kalamazoo residents will have the opportunity to learn about going solar during a special edition of Green Drinks Kalamazoo on Thursday, August 28, from 6 - 8 p.m. at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe (355 E Kalamazoo Ave). The free event will offer an evening of solar education, community connection, and local beer.

This Green Drinks + Solarize event will bring together environmental advocates, homeowners, local experts, and clean energy professionals to explore how easy and affordable going solar can be. The event will feature testimonials from Kalamazoo homeowners who have already installed solar panels through the Solarize program, highlighting cost savings and environmental benefits. Helios Solar will be on hand to answer questions, and the City of Kalamazoo’s Historic Preservation Officer will explain how even owners of historic homes can go solar.

“Programs like Solarize make it easier to install a solar system than most people think,” said Justin Gish, Sustainability Planner for the City of Kalamazoo. “By coming together as a community through a group buy, residents not only save money, they also help move us closer to our local sustainability and climate goals.”

The Solarize program makes solar simple by organizing group buy opportunities, connecting neighbors with vetted installers, and offering an exclusive discount for event attendees. At the last event, hosted at Brewery Outré, 12 households installed solar energy systems, adding 52 kilowatts of clean energy to our local grid.

“Combining Green Drinks with Solarize brings together people who care deeply about sustainability and the future of our community,” continued Gish. “It’s not only about solar; it’s about connecting with others who share a commitment to protecting the environment and living more sustainably.”

This event is free and open to all community members with an interest in clean energy, sustainability, or learning more about solar energy in Kalamazoo.