JOHN DAY – The John Day Solar Tour will start at Keerins Hall on the grant County Fairgrounds at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, with a 1-hour introductory class about solar and wind energy systems for homes on and off the grid.

Attendees will learn about system design and setup, as well as what it takes to be the manager of your own power company.

The event is part of the annual National Solar Tour, which is expected to draw some 150,000 people to learn more about solar and wind power and energy-saving buildings. John Day is one of 15 communities in Oregon participating in the events.

“Fuel costs are growing exponentially as we reach energy resource limits. Solar energy is becoming more popular in John Day as homeowners want to do what they can to reduce their energy demand,” said Jennifer Barker, the local organizer for the tour. “For many people, seeing a real home with a solar energy system is what spurs them to investigate solar for their own home.”

The Oregon Department of Energy is a title sponsor for the event. The class and tour are free. For more information about the John Day Solar Tour, contact Jennifer Barker at 541-575-3633 or (info@solwest.org).

For links to more information on the Solar Tour or energy tax credits, go to (www.myeaglenews.com).

In addition, “Green + Solar Building Oregon” magazine includes profiles of solar homes from around the state and resource information and tips. The magazine is available free at tour homes and at the EORenew office,150 E. Main St. in John Day.