Harmony Fire Chief Scott Garing is joining the ranks of those seeking energy independence through the power of the sun harnessed by the latest solar panel technology.

With the cost of electricity rising, some area residents have looked to alternative energy sources to lighten the load.

Scott Garing, chief of the Harmony Fire District, is joining the ranks of those seeking energy independence through the power of the sun harnessed by the latest solar panel technology.

Garing said he first began looking into installing the panels because he was paying hundreds of dollars every month to power his household.

Solar panels absorb energy from the sun and turn it into electricity that can power everything from homes to corporate offices.

Garing said he recommends switching to solar as a way to both save money long-term and to achieve the dream of energy independence.

“It's not about having the money to do it,” he said. “I'm not spending any extra money I'm just spending it differently.”

The cost per month about matched his monthly electricity bill.

Read about the tax benefits of solar panels in Tuesday's Butler Eagle.