Gwen Jorgensen is a USA Olympic Triathlon Gold Medalist and mother of two. She’s also an advocate for sustainability and the environment. Freedom Solar was privileged to assist Gwen in her Louisville, Colorado home’s transition to solar energy over the summer. Gwen spoke with us about her life in Colorado, the experience of going solar, and her purpose in this life.
GWEN’S Q&A
What do you enjoy doing for fun in Colorado, besides your daily routine and training?
Gwen I enjoy spending time outside with my family. Our family spends a lot time riding our bikes to the bike parks, restaurants, and other places. My five-year-old son enjoys playing by the creek and having picnics by it.
Why did you decide to be more environmentally-conscious and switch to solar energy?
Gwen I am passionate about saving the planet. While we have a compost heap and commute whenever we can, we also consume a lot of energy. I would like to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Solar could be a way for me to offset our energy consumption. Being an avid runner and lover of the outdoors, I want to do my part to preserve Mother Earth. Although I am not perfect, I do my best to make it better. Solar is a great choice. It was easy to set it up and wasn’t as costly as I expected. After just a few months, the savings have already been amazing.
How have you incorporated sustainability into the family’s life?
Gwen We commute a lot on our bikes. My son rides his bike 9 km to school. It’s great to see him enjoying his bike ride. We live in a one-car family and commute whenever possible. We have a compost heap in our back yard and grow our own food whenever possible.
Many people feel overwhelmed by the idea that the solar process can be started. What is your experience with juggling a busy life and making time for projects like this?
Gwen.Freedom Solar took care of everything, from start to finish. It was a smooth and easy process. I was able to stay at home because they arrived when Xcel Energy had completed their inspection. I was not needed for more that 10 minutes during the inspection. Freedom Solar and their team took care everything.
How was it to work with Freedom Solar during the entire process?
Gwen They provided the best customer service. They wore booties when they entered our home to inspect the roof. When they left, they brought a vacuum cleaner to make sure there was no mess. They were quick to respond to my questions and gave me multiple options for solar panels so that I could choose the best one for us.
What was the one surprise you found with your new system that you didn’t anticipate?
Gwen I’m always amazed at the amount of solar power that we can generate, even in winter. Freedom Solar Power utilizes Sunpower panels, which are among the best in the industry.
Freedom Solar panels are powered from the sun and fueled with purpose. What fuels you?
Gwen I am fueled and energized by my family. My energy comes from spending time outside with my family. Stanley and Patrick riding their bikes to school with me is one of my favorite memories.
As a company, one of our core values is to get out of our comfort zone. What advice would your company give to someone who wants to push the limits and get out of their comfort zones?
Gwen Take baby steps and remember that you can always return to your comfort zone. Slowly increase your capabilities. All that I’ve learned about sports can be applied to daily life.