Bringing Solar Power to Apartment Tenants
- Collaboration with various organizations and entities to install a new 646-kilowatt solar system on a 260-unit apartment complex in Orange
- Solar project expected to meet 65% of the community's electricity needs and lower the average household's monthly electric costs by $60
- Participation in the Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing program aims to install 300 MW of generating capacity by 2030, with direct benefits to California renters
- Edison International's commitment to achieving California's net-zero emissions mandate through solar and wind energy
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The installation of a 646-kilowatt solar system on an affordable housing complex represents a significant step towards sustainable living and energy independence. The collaboration between various stakeholders, including the Foundation for Affordable Housing, BLDG Partners, Sunrun, the city of Orange and Southern California Edison (SCE), underscores a strategic approach to addressing climate change while also reducing living costs for low-income residents.
From an energy policy perspective, this initiative aligns with California's aggressive carbon reduction goals. The Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing program, funded by the California Climate Investments initiative, is critical in meeting the state's target of installing 300 MW of generating capacity by 2030. By offsetting 65% of the community's electricity needs with solar energy, the project directly contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Financially, the average household stands to save approximately $60 monthly on electric costs, which may have a cumulative positive effect on the local economy as disposable incomes increase. The long-term benefits extend to workforce development through job training in solar panel installation, which can stimulate local employment and skill development.
From a sustainable energy standpoint, the Knolls project is a significant case study in the deployment of renewable energy solutions within urban communities. The advanced solar panels not only supply clean energy but also serve as a practical example of how renewable energy can be integrated into existing infrastructures, such as carports.
Projects like these are essential for demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of renewable energy to a broader audience. They play a pivotal role in public acceptance and the adoption of clean energy technologies. The educational aspect for tenants, along with community engagement, is crucial in fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Additionally, the project's alignment with Edison International's Countdown to 2045 initiative showcases the role of private and public partnerships in achieving large-scale energy transformation. The emphasis on solar and wind energy as primary sources for the grid highlights the growing importance of these technologies in future energy systems.
As an environmental economist, one can appreciate the multifaceted economic implications of the Knolls solar project. The upfront investment in solar infrastructure is offset by the long-term savings on electricity bills, which can be significant for low-income households. Moreover, the involvement of the Cap-and-Trade Program auction proceeds indicates a strategic use of carbon pricing mechanisms to fund renewable energy projects.
The economic ripple effect extends beyond immediate savings. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, the project indirectly contributes to energy price stability by mitigating the impact of volatile fuel prices on electricity costs. Additionally, the investment in local job training and workforce development can lead to the growth of a green economy, fostering innovation and competitiveness in the renewable energy sector.
It's also worth noting that the environmental benefits of reduced carbon emissions have broader economic advantages, such as improved public health outcomes and the avoidance of costs associated with climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in the future.
SCE supports solar panel installation on affordable apartments in Orange to save residents money and help reduce their carbon footprint.
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 21, 2023 / Edison International
Residents of the Knolls, a 260-unit apartment complex, are now enjoying the benefits of a new 646-kilowatt solar system. PHOTO CREDIT: LUIS GUTIERREZ
By Lynnette Round ENERGIZED by Edison Writer
It's a rare sight even in solar power-friendly Southern California. Row after row of photovoltaic panels atop the carports of an affordable housing development in Orange. Residents of The Knolls, a 260-unit apartment complex, are now enjoying the benefits of a new 646-kilowatt solar system. It provides clean and renewable energy for their homes and helps them save money on electric bills.
"I am happy that we have the solar option now. It is good for the environment and our quality of life," said K.K., a resident of The Knolls. "Now, we can use our savings from our bills to help our children."
The Foundation for Affordable Housing, BLDG Partners, Sunrun, the city of Orange and Southern California Edison collaborated on the solar project to reduce the community's dependence on fossil fuels. The residents of the affordable apartments will benefit from the 1,596 advanced solar panels installed throughout the property, which will meet
"I grew up in the city of Orange. We have an enormous sense of community," said Jonathan Russo, senior asset manager at The Foundation for Affordable Housing. "By investing in the city and its residents, this project is expected to lower the average household's monthly electric costs by
The Knolls project was made possible through the Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing program. This statewide program provides rebates to property owners who install solar systems for qualified low-income or disadvantaged community housing. Additional participation benefits include installing energy-efficiency measures, solar panel installation job training and workforce development opportunities emphasizing local and targeted hires and tenant education and engagement.
Annual funds were approved through the California Climate Investments initiative. Money comes from Cap-and-Trade Program auction proceeds deposited in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and used to support the state's goals to reduce carbon emissions and reduce climate change's effects.
The Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing program aims to install 300 MW of generating capacity by 2030. The Knolls is the fourth-largest system providing direct benefits to California renters and represents the state's commitment to reducing climate impacts. Renters who cannot install solar panels can take part in renewable energy projects in their community through SCE's Community Renewables Program.
"The Knolls is the exact kind of project that is critical not only to accomplishing Southern California Edison's clean energy vision to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also for making sure all customers realize the cost savings that come with clean energy," said Cynthia Quimby, SCE Government Relations manager. "SCE remains committed to safely providing all of our customers with cost savings, as well as reliable and affordable energy, and we look forward to continuing to work with our partners and communities on future solutions."
As part of Countdown to 2045, Edison International's updated analysis of the transformation needed to achieve California's net-zero emissions mandate, solar and wind will contribute the bulk of the energy supply across most hours of the day and
For more information about community solar, visit SCE's Community Renewables Program page.
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SOURCE: Edison International
View the original press release on accesswire.com
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