Wolfger Schneider of Sustainable Charlotte not only designed a photovoltaic system for the Charlotte Energy Committee for its dual-use demonstration project at the compost shed at the Charlotte Central School, he took the lead on installing it as well. Here Wolfger is on the lid of one of the compost bins, running the wire from the back of the solar panel down to the inverter and battery.

Matt Sargent pitched in to be our roof-climbing carpenter. When the forecast was for 100 percent rain, he and Wolfger decided they were “basically waterproof” and carried on the installation as planned.

The 100W panel is now charging a battery that is connected to an outlet where the public can plug in to charge their phones, electric saw batteries, blender—whatever you want. We also have a solar powered security light and decorative lights around the shed and picnic area that turn on after dark.

Come to the garden and be inspired by the perfect pairing of solar power with pollinator-friendly flowers. Mike Keirnan of Bee the Change donated seeds to enhance the pollinator beds at the CCS vegetable garden. In the fall we’ll have a celebration of the project— keep an eye out for the date. Meanwhile, enormous thanks from the energy committee to Wolfger, Matt and Mike!
Photos by Rebecca Foster and Deirdre Holmes