About NorCal Solar

Who we are

Mission Statement: Fostering solar energy through the unbiased exchange of information.

The Northern California Solar Energy Association (NorCal Solar) is a nonprofit, member-supported association that provides education on the many aspects of solar energy. Since 1974, NorCal Solar has served as a leading clearinghouse of unbiased information for solar professionals and newcomers, the general public, policymakers, grassroots organizations, advocacy groups, and the media in Northern California.

Throughout its history, NorCal Solar has inspired tens of thousands of people to decrease dependence on traditional fuels by promoting:

• passive design

• building integrated solar

• photovoltaics (PV)

• solar cooking

• solar hot water

• renewable energy strategies

• energy efficiency

Your financial contribution enables us to produce and promote a variety of educational activities and resources. Your support enables us to strengthen solar awareness and move towards creating a more environmentally sustainable society.  Members also receive a variety of benefits, which you can learn about here.

NorCal Solar is a chapter of the American Solar Energy Society (ASES) a national organization dedicated to advancing the use of solar and other renewable energy sources for the benefit of the global environment.

For an overview and history of NorCal Solar, listen to the following interview with our Organizational Manager: 

What We Do

Act as an Educational Resource: On top of maintaining an educational website and newsletter, we welcome our members to take advantage of our knowledgeable staff and board members by emailing questions to info@norcalsolar.org or joining us for our monthly online AMA (Ask Me Anything) sessions.

Speaker Series Events: Every three months we organize a speaking event that focuses on a specific renewable energy topic. There are great speakers, food, drinks, and networking—plus a lively discussion afterward! Get tickets to our next event here. 

Solar Homes Tours: At least once a year, we organize a tour of solar homes in specified geographical area. During these events, homeowners allow interested neighbors to view their solar panels. They then answer questions about their experience going solar and implementing green features. 

Intersolar North America Tours: Every July, during the Intersolar Conference in San Francisco, we organize a series of educational tours. Examples of past tours are Solar Winery tours, Tesla Factory tours, San Francisco Solar Sites tours, and Sailing tours. 

Partnerships: We partner with progressive organizations promoting sustainability. If you are interested in partnering with us, send an email to info@norcalsolar.org. We'll get back to you!