Solar and Energy Efficiency Investments

Solar and Energy Efficiency Investments

Posted on June 5, 2017

As an organization, Self-Help Enterprises is committed to providing affordable housing and fostering a sustainable future for our residents and communities. Self-Help Enterprises received funding from the Low-Income Weatherization Program (LIWP) to install solar PV and a variety of energy conservation measures at five rental communities (304 units): North Park (Oildale), Solinas Village (McFarland), Almond Court (Wasco), Goshen Village II (Goshen), and Casas De La Vina (La Vina).

The LIWP projects provided the opportunity to install energy conservation retrofits in combination with renewable energy (solar PV) to offset remaining electrical loads, which lower utility costs for residents. These resources will result in the first zero net energy retrofit at Casas De La Vina, which is 100% electric. The five projects will reduce electrical consumption an average of 43% and will result in 882 kW of new solar PV power.

The solar PV projects also included a partnership with Proteus to provide labor through their job training program.

Additionally, the North Park upgrades were implemented in conjunction with the construction of a new community building. The community building will allow Self-Help Enterprises to expand onsite resident services and update the computer lab.

Among the five properties, improvements included upgraded hot water systems for more efficient hot water distribution, replacement of all older windows with new energy efficient dual pane windows,  replacement of older air-conditioning/heating units with new air-conditioning/heating units, new interior and exterior LED lighting, new faucet aerators and shower heads, new washers and dryers in the common laundry area, attic insulation and duct sealing, and replacement of refrigerators that are older than 2013.