Investing in green power is investing in a healthy future for everyone. Globally, the International Energy Agency says that of the $3 trillion invested in energy in 2023, nearly $2 trillion is earmarked for clean, renewable sources, upgrades and practices. Add in two local organizations who consistently work towards resilience and a strong community and it’s a powerful trifecta. Recently South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity was awarded a Green Power Solar Grant by Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to benefit lives across western Washington. These funds will bring benefits to local low-income and BIPOC families working to build a fresh start.
PSE Funds Solar Projects for Local Non-Profits, Public Housing Authorities and Tribes
“Distributing grants for new solar projects to non-profits and tribal entities in our electric service area is particularly gratifying,” said PSE President and CEO Mary Kipp. “The funding comes from Green Power and Solar Choice participants, who provide a measurable way for us to work together toward a cleaner and more equitable energy future.”
This year, the Green Power Solar Grant program awarded more than $750,000 to 10 groups in our area. These awards will fund the installation of new solar arrays which lower operating costs, reduce their carbon footprint and provide clean energy to our state. Applicants partnered with local solar installation companies to get their systems up and running and start generating energy in 2023.
“It is important to Puget Sound Energy that the benefits of solar are accessible to all of our communities, regardless of the systemic inequalities they may face,” says PSE Community Projects Manager Mackenzie Martin. “The Green Power Solar Grants aim to reduce the financial and operational barriers that nonprofits, public housing authorities and Tribal entities must overcome when installing solar at their facilities.”
Green Power Supercharges South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity Families
Habitat for Humanity – which started in 1942 to foster community and racial equity – came to South Puget Sound in 1989. Since that time, they have built 80 affordable homes, completed 10 critical home repair projects and housed 112 children and 134 adults.
Choosing them as a Green Power Award recipient was easy, says Martin. “The most important factor in PSE’s project selection process is how an applicant will use the electricity bill savings that result from their solar installation to benefit the low-income and BIPOC community members they serve. South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity excelled in this arena with a plan to use their savings to further fund programs that reduce disparities in homeownership. We are honored to partner with critical service providers like South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity as they bring the benefits of clean energy to their communities.”
Habitat for Humanity Rebuilds Lives One Home at a Time
“This grant will allow us to install solar panels on the south side of the Yelm Habitat Store, marking a significant step towards embracing renewable energy and building a sustainable future,” says Habitat’s Amber Markland. “We are committed to building affordable housing and promoting environmentally friendly practices, and really happy to embark on this journey powered by the sun. We strongly believe in the power of action to address environmental challenges. Through this partnership with PSE, we are taking a step forward in promoting renewable energy and environmental stewardship in Thurston County.”
Once the panels are up and running, they will begin to offset Habitat’s overall energy consumption. Savings generated—estimated to be thousands of dollars each year—will benefit the organization’s bottom line and allow even more homes to be built for families in need.
They also symbolize a greener future ahead for the entire Habitat team, says Markland. “Our ambitious goals for 2023, including completing the solar project, initiating home construction in Tumwater, commencing infrastructure development in Yelm, and continuing to assist families through Critical Home Repair program, exemplify our commitment to building stronger, more sustainable communities.”
Volunteer, Donate and Support Habitat for Humanity to Build Strong Futures
South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity has more than 180 volunteers who have provided 8,410 hours of service equaling $240,000 worth of donated time. You too can sign up to volunteer as an individual or a group. Or consider becoming a corporate sponsor or faith partner with your religious community. Short on time? That’s ok; shop for your next home project at one of their neighborhood stores to find a bargain that gives back.
There are plenty of event and advocacy options as well as direct donation opportunities. Whether donating funds or via their vehicle donation program, any tax deductible giving works magic in the community we all call home.
PSE customers can sign up for the Green Power or Solar Choice programs then read about savings and rebates, electric vehicle charging, carbon balance and much more on the PSE website. Unsure where to start? Take a quick online energy assessment to learn about ways to understand and control your home’s usage. Together we can give, grow and build a greener future for everyone, one family at a time.
Sponsored
