Sharing the Sun, Sharing the Savings
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We all know that keeping up with the cost of living isn't getting any easier, and that includes the monthly electric bill. Fortunately, solar energy may offer a way to ease some of that burden, and you don't necessarily need to install panels on your own roof to take advantage of it. It's a concept that's gaining attention and could offer some interesting advantages for homeowners and renters alike.
Our community contributor Ryan Lee speaks with HamilSun partner Mark Hamilton about the advantages of joining HamilSun and other community solar programs.
HamilSun is a community solar farm located on 10 acres of Hamilton family farmland in Peru, NY. The farm is home to more than 5,000 solar panels and is now generating approximately 2.7 megawatts of power for the electrical grid and qualified low-income households.
Community solar farms like HamilSun are operating throughout the North Country, with the goal of improving the sustainability of the power grid.
To learn more about HamilSun, please visit info.neighborhoodsun.solar/hamilsun. Broader information about community solar farms and their availability can be found at nyserda.ny.gov.


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Ryan Lee of Plattsburgh, New York, is a Client Advisor and Partner with Acrisure, a global insurance and risk management agency. Ryan serves as a director with the For the Kids Charity organization and sits on the board of directors of UFirst Federal Credit Union. He also volunteers with a variety of nonprofit organizations throughout the region. In addition, he is a past president of the Plattsburgh Rotary Club.
Ryan’s passions include woodworking, playing guitar, ice hockey, and spending time with his family. As a community contributor, he seeks to highlight stories of people and organizations that bring unique value to the North Country.
Submitted by Paul Larson, November 6, 2026.