SolWest is an annual event organized by the Eastern Oregon Renewable Energies Non-profit and showcases a variety of renewable energy technologies and products for power generation, transportation and household use. Gene Schudlich made the trip to John Day, Oregon in his biodiesel VW pickup to take part in the Fair.

The 2007 fair featured household and industrial wind, solar-electric and solar water heating products. A centerpiece of the Fair is the SolWest electrathon rally, featuring all-electric 3-wheel vehicles. Gene also stopped by Gov. Schwarzenegger's office in Sacramento for a photo opportunity and a few suggestions.