Our speaker for September 13 - Jim Lemkin

Jim Lemkin of SolarCity gave a presentation on solar technology.  Prior to working with SolarCity, Mr. Lemkin owned several businesses including a video production company and a mobile phone company.  In his spare time, he participates in competition bbq and also cooks for our troops and veterans.

One of the biggest barriers to people purchasing solar for their homes is that the equipment is rather expensive.  To solve this problem, SolarCity offers a lease program in which you do not have to pay for the equipment outright.  Even with this lease, you still start saving money on your monthly electric bill right away. 

Solar technology has not changed much over the last forty years.  Almost all of the solar panels are made outside of the United States because the United States does not allow silica mining.  The manufacturing process also raises some environmental concerns leading some to question how green this technology really is.

Mr. Lemkin discussed the potential of partnering with Rotary to help us raise funds.  For every customer that signs up for solar through SolarCity which was generated by our Rotary Club, the Club will receive $400 to $500.  Apparently, a Rotary Club in Northern California did this and raised $19,000. 

Many large companies are now using solar technology including Walmart, Kohls, and Costco.  SolarCity has also partnered with the United States government to put solar panels on 120,000 military units.  This doubles the solar footprint in the country.

SolarCity has jobs available and loves to employ veterans.  Feel free to contact Mr. Lemkin if you know someone who may be interested.

Thank you Mr. Lemkin for an interesting presentation.

Deborah A. Perkins