May 27 - June 2

our new solar arrays absorbing the sunlight

This was the week of the long-awaited solar installation at the dining hall. On Thursday, the crew from Whidbey Sun and Wind began arriving along with those attending the program. Work on the installation began Friday morning and continued throughout the weekend.

initial site assessment and set-up

roping up

Throughout the weekend, several of the crew members took short breaks from the work on the roof to make presentations that were informative and enjoyable. Mini-workshops were provided covering the full range of the installation, including safety precautions, site prep and layout, how solar modules work, electrical considerations, a survey of alternative energy technologies, including solar, wind and mini-hydro, and system monitoring.

 Kelly Keilwitz, owner of Whidbey Sun & Wind

 Golda (above) and Mark (below) leading mini-workshops

Lin and Kathy conduct an impromptu brain gym workshop

program participants get some hands on experience

Adam completing installment of the first module

Rolf stopped by to check things out

As the weekend proceeded, it was enjoyable to observe how the project crew and program participants shared the experience of being at Indralaya in common purpose. The sense of community that is an integral aspect of the Indralaya experience developed as it does at most programs.

Jacob with a fresh head of lettuce from the garden

delicious dinner fritatas

Adam and Mark dive into the wash sinks for after-meal cleanup

There are many who have encouraged and supported the installation of solar technology at Indralaya over the years. Particular thanks is due to Steve James. Steve first came to Indralaya in 2004, and helped prepare a report on the potential for solar at Indralaya shortly after that. His perception of the potential for solar here was based on knowledge and relationships that he developed while working for the National Park Service, during which he participated in numerous solar installations at parks in the West. Steve also initiated discussions with Whidbey Sun and Wind and arranged for their site visit last fall. Thanks, Steve, for your efforts and support. Indralaya will reap the benefit for years to come.

Steve

Thanks also to everyone who has supported the project financially and in various other ways. To date we have received direct donations of approximately $8,700; enough to purchase more than 13 of the 34 solar modules that are now collecting the radiating energy of the sun on the dining hall roof. Our goal has been to purchase at least half of the modules through donations and we are almost there!