Those willing to put in the “sweat equity” for an economical and newly built home in Sacramento can also enjoy the benefits of the sun thanks to generosity.
Solar developer SunPower is donating panels for new homes built by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento. The non-profit helps provide new homes for low-income families which also are willing to contribute their own time and energy on simple parts of the construction phase.
SunPower is donating 140 solar panels to help offset energy costs of homes Habitat for Humanity’s Cornerstone community in the Sacramento area. Both the non-profit and SunPower are partnering with Mutual Housing of CA.
All told, the donated panels provide each of the 13 homes with an estimated annual savings of $1,500 in energy costs. The SunPower Foundation also will contribute a monetary grant to support design, permitting and installing of the panels in the Cornerstone community.
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"One of the many benefits of solar is its ability to provide long-term financial relief to families struggling with high and unpredictable energy costs," said Peter Faricy, CEO at SunPower. "Everyone deserves access to affordable, clean energy. Together with Habitat for Humanity, we are proud to a meaningful impact on the lives of families in Sacramento."
The Cornerstone community in whole will consist of 18 single-family homes, each equipped with electric vehicle charging capabilities to provide homeowners with an ecosystem of energy solutions. As cost of living and energy prices increase in California, Habitat for Humanity's efforts to electrify their homes can lower energy costs while helping to meet U.S. climate goals.
"The climate is changing and so must our homes and how we build them," said Leah Miller, CEO for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento. "We strive to create homes that are durable, healthy and sustainable. Thanks to SunPower and Good Sun, we can make a positive impact in the community we serve with low cost, clean energy."
The announcement by SunPower also is honor of upcoming Earth Day, happening April 22 worldwide.
