The Rural Renewable Energy Alliance (RREAL), in Pine River, MN, is a 501c3 with the mission of making solar power accessible to people and communities of all income levels. Founded in 2000 as an all volunteer organization, RREAL has grown to install hundreds of solar energy systems for low-income families and communities. In 2007, the Rural Renewable Energy Alliance developed the now patented Solstis™ Solar Powered Furnace, one of the nation’s most efficient and economical solar air heating system, in an effort to make a superior solar energy technology more accessible to everyone. In 2010, the Solar Powered Furnace was certified by the Solar Ratings and Certification Corporation as the most efficient solar air heating collector in the world. The Rural Renewable Energy Alliance now supports more than 10 full-time staff and is partnering with organizations across the country through a variety of programs to make solar energy more accessible to everyone.
RREAL installs solar energy systems for low-income families that are receiving Heating Assistance. In addition to our Solar Assistance Program installations, we install a variety of solar technologies including Photovoltaics, Transpired Air Heat, Solar Water Heat and Solar Air Heat at market rate. We also provide outreach and education regarding solar power. You can learn more about us at http://www.rreal.org or by calling 218-587-4753.
Our Programs:
Solar Assistance: The Rural Renewable Energy Alliance provides solar energy systems to families that qualify for the Federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program as a lasting solution to fuel poverty. Solar Assistance fosters ecological health, social equity, and self-reliance while providing families with decades of renewable, domestic energy.
Solar Design Build: REAL Solar, a for-profit subsidiary of RREAL, designs and installs solar electric systems, transpired air systems, solar hot water systems, and solar air heating systems for both residential and commercial sector clients. REAL Solar employs licensed and NABCEP certified installers and has experience installing more than 150 solar systems. Proceeds from REAL Solar help to support RREAL's Solar Assistance Program.
Solar Powered Furnace Manufacturing: The Rural Renewable Energy Alliance engineered and manufactures the Solstis™ Solar Powered Furnace, the industry’s leading, state of the art, solar air heating system. These patented, U.S. made solar panels integrate seamlessly with residential and commercial buildings of all sizes and can have a substantially faster payback than other solar technologies. All proceeds from SPF sales support Solar Assistance.
Education and Outreach: The Rural Renewable Energy Alliance provides service learning opportunities, hands-on installation trainings, internships, and a variety of presentations on solar energy technologies for students and community members of all ages and backgrounds as an integral part of making solar energy accessible to everyone.
