A nonprofit initiative helped build solar projects on 40 townhomes across Montgomery County, Maryland, resulting in more than 270 kW of new energy output. Clean energy nonprofit RE-volv and Montgomery County Green Bank financed the project, and solar contractor GreenBrilliance built the PV systems.
Solar arrays installed on Housing Unlimited townhomes in Montgomery County, Maryland. Credit: RE-volv
These arrays were built on affordable housing organization Housing Unlimited townhomes, and are expected to curb energy costs by $500,000 during their operating lifespans.
“Housing Unlimited’s incredible mission at the intersection of mental health and housing is now strengthened through solar power, thanks to lower energy bills that allow precious resources to be better utilized serving clients,” said Andreas Karelas, executive director of RE-volv. “RE-volv is thrilled to play a role in this incredible project, alongside our longstanding partners Montgomery County Green Bank, and Green Brilliance.”
Currently, Housing Unlimited owns 96 scattered-site homes in Montgomery County, providing shared housing to 263 adults in mental health recovery. The transition to solar ensures that more of the organization’s budget is dedicated to critical, personalized services rather than utility costs.
“Housing Unlimited is excited to install solar at our homes,” said Abe Schuchman, CEO at Housing Unlimited. “This enables us to redirect energy bill savings into expanding our team and adding more homes. With a secure home and desired supports, the adults we serve can focus entirely on their independence and recovery.”
Billie Eilish’s Changemaker Program provided a grant for this project via REVERB. One of its missions is accelerating clean energy adoption for community-serving organizations.
“GreenBrilliance is proud to serve as the design and installation partner for this solar initiative,” said Nishanth ‘Neo’ Mahankali, senior mechanical engineer at GreenBrilliance. “Our mission is to provide nonprofits with high-performance, turnkey solar solutions that deliver immediate savings. Seeing our systems support mental health recovery and housing stability in Montgomery County is exactly why we do this work.”
News item from RE-volv
