Solar Fest

Each year, on the first Saturday in May, a fusion of education and entertainment around solar energy brings the community out to enjoy live music, solar demonstrations, food and fun under the live oaks of Maverick Park. An important annual event for the South Texas community, Solar Fest provides valuable information to the public about renewable energy technologies, the impact of sustainable living, and green building techniques.

Solar Fest has exciting opportunities for volunteers, vendors, and sponsors to support solar and renewable energy solutions in our city. Email Christine Chapa at cchapa@solarsanantonio.org for more information.

Green Schools Symposium

On Wednesday, May 20 and Thursday, May 21 the local chapters of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the US Green Building Council (USGBC) together with Solar San Antonio present the 2009 Green Schools Symposium. High performance schools cost less money to operate and use less water and energy than a conventional school. According to USGBC, green schools, on average, save $100,000 per year--enough to hire two new teachers, buy 500 new computers, or purchase 5,000 new textbooks. Due to energy efficiency alone, the average increase of $3 per square foot construction cost is paid back fully during the first year of operation.

Solar Tour

Billed as the largest solar energy event in the world, the American Solar Energy Society's National Solar Tour is now at home in San Antonio. Held annually on the first Saturday in October, this fun and educational event provides participants an opportunity to take self-guided tours of homes and buildings to see how their neighbors are using solar energy and energy efficiency to reduce their monthly bills and help tackle climate change. 2008 marked the first year San Antonio participated by featuring ten homes and buildings in Bexar County.The National Tour boasts 115,000 attendees visiting some 5,000 buildings in 44 states.

Power Breakfasts

Held periodically, "Power Breakfasts" are an opportunity to hear national class speakers discussing topics related to solar and other renewable energy.