The FREE North America story

We have been involved in energy “efficiency” for many years. Twenty years ago, we did passive solar improvements to a ranch style house in Montana. Ten years ago, we built an “Energy Crafted” home cape in Northern New England with ground source geothermal HVAC and passive solar. In 2006, we watched Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth…several times. The Mercedes sedan and the Volvo Cross Country were traded in for a Camry Hybrid and a Prius. In 2007, 21 PV solar panels went on the roof, the insulation was also improved and passive solar additions were completed.

We had cut our energy consumption by over 50% but knew there was more to do. We also knew other people wanted to do their part to cut their energy use and carbon footprint but were not in a position to do as much. We are fortunate that we could afford to make the changes and had the opportunity to do so. The reoccurring question was “How can we help more?”

From talking with many people, we realized by collecting small amounts from numerous concerned, involved people, we could pool the funds and help purchase and install renewable energy systems. Funding Renewable Energy Expansion, North America (FREE North America) was born. We incorporated the effort as a 501c3 nonprofit so the Earth could profit more. We selected schools and nonprofits to receive the systems to be a win/win/win situation.

Schools provide the opportunity for a working science lab for children to become familiar with how the systems work. Kids win. The energy generated lowers the utility expenses of the school. Lower expenses equal lower cost to the taxpayer. Taxpayer/parent wins. The highest PV output is in the summer when school buildings are at their lowest use so the energy can be sold back into the grid. The more electricity made available, the less the utility company has to rely on “peak generation” or, worst yet, go on the open market to purchase kilowatts. The utility company (and its customers) win. The biggest WIN is, that for every five Kilowatt hours of electric generated by solar or wind, 2.2 pounds(natural gas generation) to 3.5 pounds (coal generation) of carbon dioxide is avoided.

When you purchase a SUNPOWER pass, we are able to pool the money and accomplish all of these goals! You win because you have helped to reduce CO2 roughly equivalent to the amount you produce through your lifestyle. The Earth wins because there is less carbon dioxide created.

How can you help?

Please go to the links and purchase your SUNPOWER passes now.

Folks who do not wish to send their information over the internet are welcome to send checks to:

            FREE North America

            PO Box 1069

            Leesburg, VA 20177

Thank you for your concern, interest, and, especially your help in reducing carbon dioxide and helping children and parents alike learn about renewable energy!

I want to help fund more renewable energy systems