Couillard Solar Foundation Solar Pergolas
The Couillard Solar Foundation, has not only supported dozens and dozens of nonprofit projects through the Solar for Good and Solar on Schools programs, but over the years it has been continually refining its solar pergola design. Most recently, it installed the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA)’s latest addition to its renewable repertoire, their 5-bay solar pavilion that delivers 48.6KW, designed to capture reflected sunlight far more effectively in winter months through the albedo effect while being eligible for IRA tax credits. CSF has installed almost a dozen pergolas in the past several years, including at its headquarters, the Deerfield Fire Department and a variety of locations across the state.
CSF’s free-standing pergola design pairs an elegant design with the installation of bifacial panels, which increases production by capturing energy from both sides, especially when there is a more reflective surface underneath. Its use is versatile: it could be a solar classroom, place to gather, parking lot shelter, car charger, grill out location or all of the above! Its role goes beyond savings and environmental benefit and adds aesthetic appeal — it looks good while generating renewable energy from the sun!
An added benefit of purchasing a pergola from CSF is that net proceeds go to benefit the Solar for Good and Solar on Schools programs.
How does a pergola work?A solar pergola consists of innovative aluminum ladders (2-5 portrait panels deep) and affixed bifacial panels that come together to form the full canopy. Below the canopy is Couillard’s gorgeous stout timberframe structure above a reflective concrete base, which also qualifies for the federal IRA 30% rebate, making the product far less expensive than a comparative non-solar shelter with immense energy payback.
How to I get my solar pergola?
Contact a CSF staffperson today. Some work has to be done prior to purchasing. They will help establish the appropriate size based on your utility bills and available space, estimate production and finalize the design of your pergola. The Couillard Solar Foundation has a model pergola behind its offices at 10 Liberty Street, Deerfield, WI if you want to tour it and other nearby examples. Any questions, reach out to info@couillardsolarfoundation.org.
For more information, visit CSF’s Solar Pergola page.
