SPRINGFIELD – Interested in converting to solar power to generate electricity at your house? Solarize Springfield may have the answers for you.

The program, which is serving homeowners in both Springfield and Longmeadow, will have an introductory presentation on how the program works on Jan. 31 at 6:15 at the Sixteen Acres Branch Library at 1187 Parker St. The program was created through the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.

Mike Kocmiersky is a “solar coach” with the program, working with residents and small businesses who are interested in acquiring solar technology through the program.

Kocmiersky said the goal of the program is to give homeowners interested in solar competitive pricing, outreach and education and a simplified process. The price of the solar installation reflects a group discount as the program uses a vetted installer, SolarFlair Energy, Inc. from Ashland.  

He explained to Reminder Publishing that not all homes or businesses are good solar sites, so another aspect of the program is taking names of interested people who may want to participate in a community solar site. With that model a solar site such as a large roof or a parking lot is acquired or rented where a solar array is installed for the benefit of the participants.

There are tax credit programs to help with the cost of installation and Kocmiersky said energy savings could be up to $140 a month.

Kocmiersky said the “least publicized” aspect of solar generation is that it “builds financial resiliency for the community.” People are not only saving money from the systems, but are using energy generated locally, since oil and natural gas are brought into Massachusetts.

Residents of both Springfield and Longmeadow are welcome at the presentation on Jan. 31.

For more information, go to www.solarizemassspringfieldlongmeadow.com.