KYSES President Steve Ricketts announcing that the KYSES Solarize process was leveraged by Louisville Metro Government to facilitate the first ever city building solar installs, with a total of 131 kW of PV, cutting utility bills by up to 60% and reducing CO2 emissions by 3,820 tons over the projects life.

The Kentucky Solar Energy Society was founded in 2007 and is an association of solar professionals, advocates, and enthusiasts dedicated to advancing solar and other renewable energy, as well as energy efficiency and conservation, across Kentucky.

KySES’s status as an official chapter of the American Solar Energy Society gives KySES members access to an international network of renewable energy researchers, experts, advocates, and professionals. KySES also sponsors and participates in the annual ASES National Solar Tour in Kentucky, showcasing solar installations across the state and promoting a sustainable energy future.

The organization also distributes information about sustainable solar energy through its website (kyses.org), a quarterly newsletter, and annual meetings to raise awareness about the latest solar news, events, and demonstrations. A key part of KySES’s mission is to educate the public and promote policy changes that will advance solar energy in Kentucky.

“Our members have been instrumental in establishing Kentucky’s net metering laws and energy performance standards for the state,” the organization’s website notes. “In early October, we sponsor and participate in the annual ASES National Solar Tour across the states. We are committed to promoting a sustainable energy future for Kentucky.”

Among the initiatives KySES champions is the Solarize bulk-purchase campaign. By partnering with cities and counties throughout Central Kentucky, these campaigns make solar energy more accessible and affordable for residents and small businesses. Through this program, participants connect with pre-screened, vetted solar contractors, ensuring residents can work with contractors they can trust and can access discounts up to 15% off typical prices.

In 2023 alone, Solarize campaigns in Frankfort, Lexington, and Louisville helped 166 Kentuckians install over 1,250 kilowatts of solar power, spurring $4.2 million into local economies. These efforts not only contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also stimulate local economic growth and green jobs.

Supporting KYSES means backing a brighter, more sustainable future for Kentucky. Their work not only helps to mitigate the impacts of climate change, but also ensures that Kentucky’s energy landscape evolves to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

We hope you will join us for this year’s Earth Walk on October 26^th and visit our table! Register for the Earth Walk here!

Learn more about the Kentucky Solar Energy Society at kyses.org.