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Got Electric Empowers Shenandoah County Through Solar Energy

In an inspiring demonstration of corporate social responsibility, Got Electric, LLC, a Maryland-based electrical contractor, made a significant impact by donating 57 surplus solar panels to Shenandoah County SEARCH Inc. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The donation not only showcases Got Electric's commitment to sustainability but also aims to alleviate long-term operational costs for SEARCH, directing more resources towards its community missions.

The solar panels donated are Heliene 380-watt units, and their integration into SEARCH’s facilities marks the beginning of a transformative initiative. Out of the 57 panels, 12 are intended for installation at SEARCH's group home, facilitated by Green Hill Solar. The remaining 45 panels will contribute to a larger solar project at SEARCH’s thrift store once the organization secures additional funding, estimated at approximately $29,000.

Andy Hershberger, Virginia Operations Director for Got Electric, articulated the company's pride in partnering with GiveSolar—a group that excels at linking surplus solar equipment with organizations in need. “By donating these solar panels, we are giving surplus equipment a meaningful new purpose while helping SEARCH save on energy expenses,” he stated. This approach not only aids the nonprofit financially but reinforces their ability to enhance programs beneficial to adult residents.

The partnership between Got Electric and SEARCH, facilitated by GiveSolar, is anything but new. Over the past decade, Hershberger and GiveSolar Director Jeff Heie have collaborated on various projects, including solar installations for educational institutions. Their mutual commitment to helping nonprofits has now reached another milestone with this recent donation.

Heie remarked, “Many nonprofits realize the benefits of solar energy but often face challenges in funding installations. This donation provides the leverage needed to raise the remaining funds for system installation.” Additionally, GiveSolar backed the initiative with a $500 contribution toward the costs associated with completing the solar setup at the group home.

The expected outcome of this solar investment is significant; the system at the group home is projected to produce roughly 5,644 kilowatt-hours annually, thereby offsetting an estimated 75% of its electricity consumption. Similarly, the planned installation at the thrift store is expected to generate approximately 24,702 kilowatt-hours yearly, offsetting over 65% of the store's energy needs.

For context, SEARCH's electricity expenditure totaled around $11,500 for the fiscal year spanning from July 2025 to June 2026. By reducing these expenses through solar power, SEARCH can redirect funds towards enhancing resident care, staffing, facility improvements, and enrichment activities—all of which are crucial for the well-being of the individuals they serve.

Kim Cassford, a board member at Shenandoah County SEARCH Inc., shared her excitement over the project, calling it transformational. “This isn't just a solar project; it's a mission project. By harnessing solar energy, we are securing a renewable funding source that benefits our residents long-term,” she noted. The organization foresees saving substantial amounts—potentially six figures—over the next 20 years, effectively reinvesting those savings into essential services.

With a history dating back to 1978, SEARCH operates a state-licensed eight-bed group home that provides constant support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many residents have been part of the SEARCH community for over two decades, fostering a strong sense of belonging and care.

Robin Tull, the group home administrator, expressed the significance of reduced utility costs. “For us, savings equate to creating opportunities. Each dollar saved through solar energy can be channeled into activities and necessities that enrich our residents' lives,” she said.

Moreover, the SEARCH Thrift Store plays a pivotal role in supporting the organization while providing valuable services to the local community. In 2025, it served over 10,000 customer transactions, reflecting its importance within the region.

For those interested in supporting the thrift store’s solar installation, contributions can be made on SEARCH's website or sent via mail to the organization's address specified for solar project donations.

This pioneering donation from Got Electric not only signifies a shift towards sustainable energy practices but also exemplifies how corporate philanthropy can have a lasting impact on local communities, especially for those who rely on essential services provided by nonprofits like Shenandoah County SEARCH Inc.