The Connecticut Green Bank announced that eight multi-family affordable housing units are moving forward as the first round of projects under the Solar Marketplace Assistance Program Plus (Solar MAP+)making it easier for affordable multifamily providers to access renewable energy and battery storage.
When completed, the eight solar projects will collectively provide approximately 2.4 MW of clean energy to 473 residential units. This gives property owners an average savings of approximately $569,000 in energy costs over the life of the panels, while tenants save an average of more than $350 in energy costs annually. Connecticut-based solar companies Earthlight Technologies and PurePoint Energy will install the systems at the eight properties.
“We have successfully brought Solar MAP+ to schools, communities and government agencies in Connecticut, and we are excited to help our first group of affordable multifamily homes access clean energy solutions,” said Mackey Dykes, Executive Vice President of Financing Programs at the Connecticut Green Bank. “By removing technical and financial barriers and providing comprehensive support, we are making it easier for owners and residents to benefit from lower energy costs and greater resilience. This program helps ensure that renewable energy is accessible to the communities and residents who will benefit from it most.”
The eight affordable multifamily properties that will benefit from new solar energy systems through Solar MAP+ are: Foote Commons in Cheshire, Beachport Senior Housing in Cheshire, Mount Carmel Village in Hamden, Congregate Housing in Hamden, Hamden Village in Hamden, Juniper Hill Village in Storrs, Access Housing at Parker Place in Tolland and Federation Square in West Hartford.
“The Hamden Housing Authority is proud to partner with the Connecticut Green Bank Solar Program to provide clean, affordable solar energy to our elderly and disabled population. This project will help reduce our residents’ overall energy costs, supporting long-term affordability and peace of mind for the people we serve,” said Hazelann B. Cook, executive director of Hamden Housing Authority. “For people living on a fixed income, these savings can make a meaningful difference, stretching monthly budgets and providing greater financial stability. We are grateful for this partnership and the opportunity to invest in a more sustainable and cost-effective future for our residents.”
By means of Solar MAP+that includes both solar and storage, affordable multifamily housing providers receive free technical assistance, site selection and project design support, access to financing and financial incentives, and more from the Green Bank. To qualify for Solar MAP+, homes must consist of at least five units. At least 60% of the units must be occupied by residents earning less than 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
News item from Connecticut Green Bank
