Florida organization plans solar project for homeless veteran housing

Local construction nonprofit St. Johns Housing Partnership plans to harness solar energy to help power its main office and three of six apartment units for veterans, reducing financial burdens for inhabitants and promoting the use of solar energy in the community.

The nonprofit anticipates its 21.87-kW solar portfolio to be installed in two parts: first, at its main office, then on the veterans’ apartment units at Patriot’s Place. The array at the office is expected to save the organization approximately $2,500 annually, which can be directly invested in community development. The array at the veterans’ apartment units will save the nonprofit and its tenants approximately $1,926 annually.

Each apartment unit contains one bedroom and measures 630 sq. ft. Each veteran will pay about 30% of market rate with the help of subsidies through the nonprofit’s fundraising efforts.

“We hope to showcase this solar system as a way to generate more interest and support for solar initiatives in our area”, St. Johns Housing partnership director Bill Lazar said. “As a green-certified organization, we are proud to expand access to solar energy in our community.”

With the cost of living rising in the area, solar energy can reduce energy costs by providing onsite power at a lower cost than traditional electricity.

“Low-income populations often struggle to pay bills, making solar energy a valuable solution to reduce costs and increase access to renewable energy.” said Everybody Solar executive director Myriam Scally. “However, limited resources, knowledge and infrastructure often hinder the adoption of solar energy in these communities, creating an unjust energy transition. We are excited to partner with the St. Johns Housing Partnership to help both their operations and support veterans at Patriot Place.”

News item from St. Johns Housing Partnership