Bishop, CA – August 8, 2024 – Eastern Sierra Land Trust (ESLT), a leading force in local conservation efforts in the Eastern Sierra, is taking a giant leap towards a greener future. Thanks to a generous donation of (13) 400Watt panels from Sierra Solar, a local solar energy company serving the Eastern Sierra since 1990, ESLT’s Bishop headquarters now boasts a brand-new 5.2 kilowatt solar power system, marking a significant step towards a greener future for both organizations and the community they serve, and a more sustainable future for the Eastern Sierra. The system is estimated to generate 9368 kWh a year saving ESLT $2,436 savings each year and $73,080 over the course of its 30 plus year lifetime.

This groundbreaking donation from Sierra Solar sets a new standard for collaboration in Inyo County. It showcases the power of local businesses and nonprofits working together to create a more sustainable future. Sierra Solar’s generous donation of their expertise, time, and resources to install this solar power system is a landmark achievement, enabling ESLT to significantly reduce its environmental impact and operating costs. Sierra Solar’s expertise and commitment to renewable energy have enabled ESLT to significantly reduce its carbon footprint while generating substantial cost savings.

“This is a transformative opportunity for our organization and the environment,” said Amy Sturgill, Interim Executive Director of ESLT. “The solar installation not only aligns with our mission to protect the natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra but also allows us to invest more resources directly into our local conservation efforts. It is a significant step toward a future powered by renewable energy.”

The Eastern Sierra’s unique geography and climate make it an ideal location for solar energy generation. With abundant sunshine and ample open space, the region has the potential to become a leader in renewable energy production. This project showcases the viability of solar power in the Eastern Sierra and highlights the importance of harnessing this natural resource to power our communities and protect our environment.

“This collaboration showcases Sierra Solar’s deep commitment to our community and the environment,” said Zachary Walters, Owner of Sierra Solar. “The Eastern Sierra’s abundant sunshine is a natural resource waiting to be harnessed, and we’re thrilled to help ESLT tap into this potential to further their vital conservation work. This project is a testament to the power of solar energy to not only reduce our carbon footprint but also empower organizations like ESLT to reallocate their resources, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and protect and preserve the natural beauty of our region.”

The solar array, prominently displayed on the roof of ESLT’s headquarters, serves as a visible symbol of the organization’s commitment to sustainability. The energy generated by the panels is expected to offset, in its entirety, all of ESLT’s energy consumption, demonstrating the tangible benefits of renewable energy solutions in our region.

The solar panels, prominently displayed on the roof of ESLT’s headquarters, serve as a visible reminder of the organization’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the growing momentum behind the renewable energy movement in the Eastern Sierra.