We can create a sustainable future one solar panel array at a time. Seattle solar designers/community activists Jeremy Smithson and Pam Burton talk with host Barbara Bernstein about the work they are doing on the individual, neighborhood and regional level to make solar energy, plug-in electric cars and other sustainable practices accessible and affordable for everyone.
Jeremy Smithson started Puget Sound Solar in 2001 with 30 years of construction contracting experience, and a desire to turn Seattle on to solar energy. What began out as a vague notion has gelled into a firm commitment to establish solar energy as a viable and permanent consumer choice. Along the way, Jeremy has become a NABCEP Certified Solar Thermal and Solar PV Installer, a Washington State certified Electrical Administrator, and a popular lecturer and teacher. What was initially a solo act is now part of a team effort, but his job description still includes providing vision and guidance to the company.
Pamela Burton was Director of the Pacifica Radio Archives before moving to Seattle in 1997, and remained in the non-profit world as the first Executive Director of Seattle Tilth until mid-2004. As the volume of phone calls to Puget Sound Solar increased, she pitched in to help and became the ‘front office’, taking messages at first, and learning solar fundamentals. Now she spends her day talking to prospective and current customers, utility people, suppliers, contractors, architects, and the like, dispensing information and advice, in addition to handling scheduling and customer paperwork. She has served as President of Solar Washington for the last four years, developing the annual Solar Tour, helping to educate the public, and working to effect public policy.