By Laura Iyer
When it comes to climate solutions, solar power often shines as a beacon of hope. It’s clean, increasingly the most affordable form of energy, and powerful enough to fuel entire communities. But here’s a lesser-known truth: installing solar panels doesn’t just help the environment—it plants seeds.
This ripple effect is known as the “solar seeding” phenomenon, or more technically, the social diffusion effect. Research shows that when someone sees solar panels on a neighbour’s home or a nearby school, they are significantly more likely to consider going solar themselves. One installation often leads to another—and another. Solar spreads like a good idea catching on.
That’s why the Million Solar Panel Challenge (MSPC) is so important. Through this global ESRAG initiative, we’re not just counting kilowatts; we’re counting conversations, connections, and visible proof that change is happening. Every solar panel logged becomes a symbol of possibility, showing Rotarians and communities worldwide what is doable and already being done. Rotarians are encouraged to log panels if they have installed solar in their homes or businesses. Each entry adds to the collective impact and helps seed the idea of clean energy within and beyond the Rotary network.
The Climate Imperative
As the United Nations emphasizes, energy is both the core challenge and the key solution to climate change. Fossil fuels—such as coal, oil, and gas—are the leading source of global greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for over 75% of all emissions and nearly 90% of carbon dioxide emissions. To avoid the worst consequences of climate change, science tells us we must cut emissions nearly in half by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. That means ending our dependence on fossil fuels and investing in clean, accessible, affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy alternatives.
This urgent call to action from the UN underscores the driving purpose behind our work. Renewable energy, especially solar energy, is central to creating a safer, more livable planet for future generations.
Rotarians: Use Your Time, Talent, or Treasure
The Million Solar Panel Challenge invites Rotarians to contribute in the way that best fits them—by giving their time, talent, or treasure to help solar energy take root around the world. This can be done in a myriad of ways beyond installing solar on their own homes or businesses:
- Time: Volunteer with a local nonprofit working on solar installations. Help coordinate educational events, walk neighbourhoods to share information, or support grant-writing and fundraising efforts. Your time helps connect the dots and build momentum.
- Talent: Are you an engineer, educator, communicator, or organizer? Put your skills to work designing systems, teaching communities, advocating for solar-friendly policies, or spreading the word. Every talent has a place in this movement.
- Treasure: Financial support is often what turns a plan into reality. Whether you contribute directly to a solar installation project, sponsor panels for a school, or fundraise through your Rotary club, your investment can bring clean energy to life.
Rotarians are uniquely positioned to be solar catalysts—trusted voices in communities who can bridge the gap between ideas and implementation. The impact grows exponentially when solar seeding is embraced not just as a technology, but as a shared mission.
What If You Rent or Can’t Afford Solar?
Can you still be a Solar Seeder if you don’t have a roof of your own to solarize? Absolutely. Here’s how you can help spread the spark:
- Be a Visible Solar Supporter
You don’t need panels to promote solar. Wear a solar-themed shirt, display a sign in your window, or share solar content on social media. Normalizing solar starts with small signs of support. - Talk About Solar
Conversations matter. Ask questions, share knowledge, and spread stories. The more we talk about solar, the more likely others will consider it. - Join the Movement
Help log projects for the Million Solar Panel Challenge. Support clubs installing solar. Assist with storytelling, outreach, or coordination. Your involvement helps multiply the impact. - Advocate for Public Solar
Encourage your city, schools, or houses of worship to go solar. These systems are highly visible and often inspire entire neighbourhoods to follow suit.
Invest in Solar Projects
If direct ownership isn’t possible, consider joining a community solar program or supporting organizations that install solar for low-income families or global communities.
The Bigger Picture
Being a Solar Seeder means recognizing that solar isn’t just a solution—it’s an invitation to participate in something larger than ourselves. Every act, whether installing a panel, giving a presentation, or funding a system, sends a message that a clean, just energy future is not only possible, it’s already underway.
And we need everyone. The Million Solar Panel Challenge shows the world what’s possible when individuals, clubs, and communities come together with a shared vision. You don’t have to go it alone, and you don’t need to go big to make a difference. You just need to start.
So take your place in the field. Whether you have a rooftop or not, you have the power to plant solar seeds. And the world is ready to grow.
If you have solar on your home or business—or have effectively helped solar happen in your community or projects—please log here: LOG Panels
