New retail store sells and promotes renewable energy

Thursday, June 12, 2008

From a story by Anita Clark in the Wisconsin State Journal:

A new store on Madison's Far East Side is pinning its hopes on renewable energy as it opens its doors this weekend.

Just inside those doors at Off the Grid, 4261 Lien Road, are comfortable chairs aimed at enticing people to plop down with brochures, books, magazines and the Internet as they ponder energy choices.

"If you want to come and sit and read, that's great," said founding partner Richard Fitzgerald. "I'm hoping there will be some interesting conversations."

A little farther into the store, visitors will find a large section of roof displaying photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight into electricity.

The store is selling the solar electricity systems, which consist of the panels, inverters and mounting equipment, starting at prices of $18,000 for a 1.5-kilowatt system and $21,000 for a 2-kilowatt system, including installation by Town and Country Electric, Sun Prairie.

In addition, "a salesman from Green Autos in Janesville will demonstrate low-speed electric commuter cars Saturday."

Grand opening events will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Regular store hours will be Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.