This Sunday is Sun Day, a chance to learn about harnessing solar power at home, even if your home is an apartment.

by Barbara Green

Every spring since 1970, on the day of the spring equinox, people around the world have been observing Earth Day, a celebration and acknowledgement of what a privilege it is to live on this planet. This Sunday, just ahead of the autumnal equinox, we will mark Sun Day.

We know that because of the use of fossil fuels, our planet is threatened by climate change. A primary source of alternative energy is solar power, and it’s this that we will celebrate on Sun Day.

On September 21st, Sun Day events are happening around the country and across the District to encourage and empower homeowners and renters to make their own power through the sun. Homeowners in every ward will showcase their solar roofs and share information about the economic, health and social benefits of going solar. And Sun Day hubs will host vetted solar installers who have information about rebates, tax credits, programs like Solar for All, community solar options, and solar renewable energy credits (SRECs).

One of the featured solar-powered sites is the Van Ness East condominium on Van Ness Street. Since its rooftop solar panels were installed and activated in 2015, the building has saved tens of thousands of dollars each year in energy costs. And from 1 to 5 p.m., you will be able to see photos of the roof panels and view, on a digital monitor, how much energy is being produced in real time. There will be children’s activities as well.

Sun Day is a project of ThirdAct in cooperation with ElectrifyDC, Sierra Club, CCAN, Interfaith Power and Light, and others. For more information, visit SunDayinDC.org.