A few weeks ago, the Honnold Foundation launched the Community Fund, a grant program supporting rooftop solar for BIPOC-led organizations in the most polluted regions of the United States.
But what can solar do for your organization? For your community? Is it really going to save you money? If you’re interested in a solar installation for your organization, read on!
The Community Fund is the Honnold Foundation’s newest way to bring solar energy to grassroots organizations across the United States, but this isn’t the first time HF has been directly involved with local nonprofits’ solar projects. We partner with a few US-based nonprofits each year with a simple, impactful goal: put solar panels on roofs.
In January 2020, Hopelink of Southern Nevada was $10,000 short on funding a solar energy project that would save them 35% of their monthly electricity bill of $800. When HF heard about their mission to eradicate homelessness in the greater Las Vegas region, we stepped in to fill the funding gap.
Don Miller, Hopelink’s Senior Program Manager, says that the installation has surpassed their expectations by a long shot. “As a small nonprofit, every dollar counts,” explained Don. “It’s $800 a month to run electricity for the place—and that’s money that could and should be going directly to our clients, the community.” Hopelink’s savings have surpassed expectations. Since their installation was powered on, they’ve saved 46% of their typical monthly bill—roughly $400 a month! Ultimately, Hopelink is poised to save over $100,000 across the panel’s expected 25+ year lifespan.
Solar energy helps small community organizations’ budgets, and it’s better for the environment, too. At the Honnold Foundation we also know that applying for a grant, especially one involving construction, is a formidable task. Planning, logistics, and compatibility could all be major concerns for grassroots organizations whose employees wear multiple hats. That’s why when you receive a Honnold Foundation Community Grant, you also receive our commitment to support your organization throughout the installation process. The Community Fund exists because we want to help nonprofits dedicate more of their budget and time to their essential mission work. If you’re selected for a grant, the Honnold Foundation and our partners at Amicus Solar Cooperative will ensure the entire process, from design to installation, runs smoothly.
Could your BIPOC-led nonprofit benefit from solar energy access?