Solar Power for Affordable Housing: A Step Towards Sustainable Energy and Cost Savings

Strategic Insights -

Residents of The Knolls, a 260-unit apartment complex in Orange, California, are benefiting from a new 646-kilowatt solar system that provides clean and renewable energy for their homes, helping them save money on electric bills. The project, a collaboration between The Foundation for Affordable Housing, BLDG Partners, Sunrun, the city of Orange, and Southern California Edison, aims to reduce the community's dependence on fossil fuels. The solar panels meet 65% of the community's electricity needs, with the residents expected to see a reduction in their average monthly electric costs by $60.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Knolls project features a 646-kilowatt solar system with 1,596 advanced solar panels installed throughout the property.
  • The solar system meets 65% of the community's electricity needs, providing clean and renewable energy for the residents.
  • The project is expected to lower the average household's monthly electric costs by $60.
  • The Knolls is the fourth-largest system providing direct benefits to California renters and represents the state's commitment to reducing climate impacts.
  • The Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing program aims to install 300 MW of generating capacity by 2030.
  • The project is made possible through the California Climate Investments initiative, which uses Cap-and-Trade Program auction proceeds deposited in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.
  • Residents who cannot install solar panels can take part in renewable energy projects in their community through SCE's Community Renewables Program.

Statistics:

  • 1,596: The number of advanced solar panels installed throughout the property.
  • 646 kilowatts: The capacity of the solar system.
  • 65%: The percentage of the community's electricity needs met by the solar system.
  • $60: The expected reduction in the average household's monthly electric costs.
  • $300 million: The expected annual cost savings for tenants across California.
  • 300 MW: The target generating capacity of the Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing program by 2030.
  • 68%: The percentage of the annual energy needed to serve grid demand that solar and wind will contribute.

Sources:

  • Edison International
  • The Foundation for Affordable Housing
  • BLDG Partners
  • Sunrun
  • City of Orange
  • Southern California Edison
  • California Climate Investments initiative
  • Countdown to 2045 (Edison International)
  • SCE's Community Renewables Program