Oliver Food Bank treasurer Jim Ouellette (left) gets on the roof with Dave and Dean Malmberg from Argon Solar to demonstrate the power of the sun and its cost-saving benefits. Argon Solar donated two panels and installed them on the roof. It is hoped that other businesses will come forward to do the same. Photo by Lyonel Doherty
Jim Ouellette is from the old school, but give him a chance to save money and he’ll go modern any day.
The treasurer of the Oliver Food Bank has happily accepted a donation of two solar panels from Argon Solar, which will supply the non-profit organization with more than 10 per cent of its electrical needs.
“I’m excited because it’s new innovation for me,” Ouellette said.
When Dave and Dean Malmberg from Argon Solar approached Ouellette with the generous offer, he didn’t think twice.
“I saw it as a very different donation and something that would benefit our operation not only for now but well into the future.”
Ouellette said it is his responsibility to find innovative ways to control expenses and manage donations that will benefit the most without compromising what they do for their clients.
“With these solar panels, it puts electrical energy directly into our panel and eventually if we can encourage other organizations and individuals to find ways to purchase a panel, we can reduce our electric bill to just about nil,” Ouellette said.
He also noted the benefit to the environment.
Dave Malmberg said these panels will benefit the food bank for the next 25 years or more.
He stated that Argon Solar has provided the infrastructure to allow for additional panel installations at the food bank. For example, they can add up to 20 solar panels that would be enough power to cover 100 per cent of the food bank’s energy needs.
Food banks are required to store food in freezers and fridges, which use up large amounts of electricity.
“Our hope is that other community members will consider purchasing additional panels which would free up cash for the food bank to invest in ways to benefit those who require their services,” Dave said.
He also noted the greater cause of reducing the carbon footprint in the community.
