Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group (SESG), a subsidiary of Sharp Electronics Corporation and the U.S. solar arm of Sharp Corporation, the world’s leading provider of solar electric solutions, will hold its annual customer meeting in New Orleans beginning today with a unique event designed to benefit the community and promote the use of solar electricity. Sharp will kick off the customer conference, “SOLA in NOLA,” with a “solar build” benefiting citizens in the Holy Cross neighborhood of New Orleans.

Working with numerous local organizations and businesses, Sharp has donated 10 1.5 kilowatt solar electric systems (a total of approximately 80 modules), to be installed on the homes of nine residents and a community center on February 28 and March 1 by Sharp’s authorized contractors. The systems will supply the homes with a lifetime of free, clean energy and provide a shining example of the power of solar electricity.

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New Orleans has the opportunity to become one of the nation’s largest, most sustainable solar cities, saving thousands of dollars for homeowners and reducing the emissions that cause global warming,” said Ron Kenedi, vice president, SESG. “As the U.S. solar market leader, we’re proud to bring together our top customers to help rebuild the Katrina-damaged New Orleans neighborhood.”

Sharp was assisted in the process of selecting the houses by several locally-based organizations that are working to rebuild the areas devastated by the effects of Hurricane Katrina. The systems will be installed by members of Sharp’s nationwide customer network, who donated their time and expertise to assist in the project.

On Saturday, March 3, dealers and community members will celebrate the completion of the solar build with a special ribbon-cutting event. The event will include appearances by several community leaders as well as the homeowners who are “going solar” thanks to the SOLA in NOLA effort. SOLA in NOLA will conclude with a special “Concert for NOLA” sponsored by Sharp. The concert, which is being produced by SuperFly Productions, will be held at the famous Tipitina’s Restaurant and will feature several noteworthy local artists. Proceeds from the evening will be donated to local New Orleans charities.