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COMMERCIAL CASE STUDY
NEAR WEST THEATER
CLEVELAND, OH
KEY NUMBERS
Solar Array Size
66 kW
Annual Production
76,000 kWh
Since 1978, Near West Theatre has been a creative home for people of all ages on Cleveland’s Near West Side, bringing the community together through bold, inclusive musical theater. Their commitment to equity, creativity, and community extends beyond the stage to the choices they make as an organization. By partnering with Better Together Solar to power their building with clean energy, Near West Theatre is taking meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future, one that supports both people and the planet.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Near West Theatre has long been a pillar of creativity and community on Cleveland’s Near West Side.
When planning the construction of their new building, sustainability was a key part of their vision. As a performing arts space, their energy needs are significant: dozens of high-powered lights, spotlights, and sound systems are used during productions.
From the beginning, they saw solar as a way to reduce their environmental impact, lower energy costs, and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. With that in mind, Better Together Solar installed a 66 kW solar array during the building’s construction, seamlessly integrating renewable energy into the heart of the theater.
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OUTCOME
The solar panels offset a large portion of Near West Theatre’s electricity use, reducing both utility costs and their environmental impact, an important benefit for a building that powers energy-intensive productions.
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At times, the system produces more electricity than the theater needs. That extra energy is sent back to the grid, earning credits that support their long-term financial sustainability.
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Beyond the savings, the solar installation is a reflection of the organization’s values. It reinforces their commitment to sustainability and shows how the arts can lead by example in building a cleaner, more responsible future.
Michael Obertacz
Near West Theater Executive Director
"It was a very simple process working with Better Together Solar. Good people, I enjoyed the interactions with the team. They took care of the panels and all the equipment they installed, its been great"