Eight affordable multifamily housing properties in Connecticut are now slated to be powered with solar energy.
The Connecticut Green Bank said that the projects received funding under the Solar Marketplace Assistance Program Plus, which is aimed at allowing multifamily housing providers to access renewable energy and battery storage while achieving cost savings.
When completed, the eight solar energy projects will deliver approximately 2.4 megawatts of clean energy to 473 residential units, providing property owners with an average of approximately $569,000 in energy cost savings over the lifetime of the panels, according to Connecticut Green Bank officials.
Connecticut Green Bank officials said the solar panels should save tenants, on average, more than $350 annually in energy costs.
“We’ve successfully brought Solar MAP+ to Connecticut schools, communities and state agencies, and we are excited to help our first group of affordable multifamily properties 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’re making it easier for owners and residents to benefit from lower energy costs and increased resilience. This program helps ensure that renewable energy is accessible to the communities and residents who stand to benefit the most.”
The eight affordable multifamily properties that will benefit from new solar energy systems include:
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
Federation Square in West Hartford
“The Hamden Housing Authority is proud to partner with the Connecticut Green Bank Solar Program to bring clean, affordable solar energy to our elderly and disabled housing residents. This project helps reduce our residents’ overall energy costs, which supports long-term affordability and peace of mind for the people we serve,” said Hazelann Cook, executive director of Hamden Housing Authority.
“For people living on fixed income, these savings can make a meaningful difference, helping stretch monthly budgets and providing greater financial stability,” Cook said. “We are grateful for this partnership and the opportunity to invest in a more sustainable and cost-effective future for our residents.”
Officials said the Solar MAP+ program covers both solar and storage, allowing affordable multifamily housing providers to receive no-cost technical assistance, site selection and project design support, according to officials.
To qualify for Solar MAP+, properties must include at least five units with at least 60% of the units occupied by residents earning less than 60% of area median income, according to Connecticut Green Bank officials.
Multifamily property owners interested in joining future Solar MAP+ cohorts can learn more at ctgreenbank.com/solarmap-amfh or by contacting Katie Shelton at the Connecticut Green Bank at 860-785-9625.
Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com.