June 8, 2012
The Installer of the Month awards are given to members of the distributed wind industry that have done exemplary work to advance the industry. The award highlights individuals that go above and beyond to not only support their business, but the entire distributed wind industry by removing barriers in their region and promoting opportunities for other colleagues to succeed. Colleagues around the industry nominated Gary Harcourt of Great Rock Windpower in Vineyard Haven, MA as one of DWEA's first Installers of the Month. Gary is a five year veteran of the industry and his company, Great Rock Windpower, serves the unique market of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. Martha's Vineyard is located off the coast of Cape Cod along the Atlantic seaboard. They install primarily Endurance machines and have over 50 installs in the US, Canada and the UK.
Gary found himself in the distributed wind industry after spending 25 years as a woodworker and cabinet maker. The tough economy meant that he had to supplement his income. Naturally, he tapped into his enthusiasm for wind power and alternative energy, but it's also as a tribute to his brother Glen. Glen passed away in 2006 and this led to researching wind resource in Martha's Vineyard. Roy Butler of Four Winds Renewable Energy mentored the first installation and according to Gary he was inspired and hooked for life!
After 13 installations and hard work with NIMBY groups, Harcourt emphasizes the need for more public education. And for the industry and his business, he would like to have farms with a semi-pass on zoning for installs. When asked about advice for new or fellow installers, Gary said, "The position that's worked for us with zoning boards, and is truly authentic, is that we have never advertised our services. We are providing a service for people that want wind energy. We're not pushing turbines. If you think it's the right thing to do, then we will do it for you. Education is really important." Harcourt's final words of wisdom are to maintain a level of passion and commitment. He says, "it's also important to take on the role of a teacher. Not only do we need to educate the public about distributed wind but we need to get young people excited about wind energy and get them involved. I find that a climb up a tower is a great way to get young people excited about wind. I also have trained quite a few new climbers (about 20) in tower safety and rescue including my wife, son and daughter." Thank you, Gary, for you leadership, passion and commitment. The distributed wind industry is better because you are in it! For more about Gary and his business, visit:
www.greatrockwindpower.com |