New solar energy system at one of Florida's largest, most full-service homeless centers to be launched
Article as it appeared in 7th Space Interactive
October 02, 2010
Florida State Representative Bill Galvano, along with the Community Coalition on Homelessness (CCH), Manatee County and Solar Direct will soon "flip the switch" on a new solar energy system at one of Florida's largest, most full-service homeless centers.
The 209 panel 48kW rooftop system will produce 80,000 kWh of electricity per year, which is expected to save the homeless center an estimated 32% in utility costs in its first year. The system will reduce environmentally damaging CO2 emissions by 1,500,000 million pounds per year. Complementing the solar equipment is a massive 130kW back-up generator supplied by Windemuller Technical Services that will be used during storm power outages.The project was funded by a $400,000 Federal Block Grant administered by Manatee County’s Department of Affordable Housing.
”Nonprofits involved in public assistance, like blood banks and food services, may also benefit from grants like CCH obtained” said Dale Gulden, Solar Direct CEO. “Solar is not only great for the environment, its monthly savings shine on your fiscal bottom line. Fewer expenses mean more donor dollars can go to nonprofit services.”
On Saturday, Oct 9 2010, Solar Direct and CCH will host a “Celebrate and Learn” event from 1 pm to 4 pm at the Bill Galvano One-Stop Center in Bradenton, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a 26 foot high “power lift” ride to the solar roof and a tour of CCH’s extensive services for the homeless.
In addition, solar energy mini-seminars will be held for home-owners, businesses, and nonprofits educating them about accessing grants, rebates and state and federal incentives to fund their own solar projects. More information on the event is available at www.solardirect.com/cch.
About Solar Direct
A pioneer in the world of energy conservation products since 1986, Solar Direct provides commercial and residential design and installation services for renewable energy and other energy-efficient products. The company also hosts over 350 energy-efficient products online, offering one of the largest energy “Super-Malls” on the Internet.
About CCH
Formed in 1995, the Community Coalition on Homelessness (CCH) provides, facilitates and coordinates services to the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless in Manatee County, Florida. |
