Habitat for Humanity Solar Homes: 1 year later

GLENDALE, Calif. - April 22, 2013 - PRLog -- A year ago SunGreen Systems (http://sungreensystems.com/) committed to donate all the resources necessary to install photovoltaic solar systems for 5 new townhomes being built by San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity (http://www.sgvhabitat.org/).   The Geneva Street Project in Glendale was the recipient of the systems which were commissioned and activated on September 11th of 2012.  Geneva was the first green project for San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity, and it currently houses five low income families and boasts a vibrant community garden.  The SGV Habitat Family Selection Committee received 60 applications for the Geneva homes, and of the applications received, five (5) fortunate families were selected and given the opportunity to become first-time homebuyers of the Geneva homes. The Family Selection Committee chose families based on their relative level of need for decent housing, their willingness to become partners in the SGV Habitat for Humanity program, and their ability to repay the loan. Each unit consists of approximately 1,200 sq. ft. of living space, 3 bedrooms, 1-½ bathrooms, a living room and a laundry room.

Since the solar systems were activated, they have worked without interruption to provide clean and free electricity to the current low income homeowners.   These energy-efficient solar homes require very little power from the utility company which translates to lower bills for the homeowners, higher resale value, protection from rising utility rates and a significant reduction in the amount of greenhouse gases the home produces.  

The solar systems provide electricity that would ordinarily come from burning coal or other fossil fuels.  Annually, each home will offset roughly 115,000 lbs. of CO2 that would have been emitted into the atmosphere.  To absorb this level of carbon, ­­­­10 acres of trees would need to be planted EVERY YEAR.  The panels used by SunGreen have a 25-year production warranty and are expected to produce clean electricity for 40-50 years, thus extending the financial and environmental benefits of the solar systems well into the future.  

To qualify for home ownership, the selected families were required to put in 500 hours of ‘sweat equity’ to help with the homes’ construction.  This Habitat policy instills pride of ownership and is a way for these families to invest in both the construction process and the in which they live.

“I am tremendously grateful to SunGreen Systems for their interest in and support of our first green build. SunGreen's solar panels will create value and savings for the Habitat for Humanity homebuyers."

-          Sonja Yates, Director of SGVHH

“We want to give back to the community by providing energy savings to those who need them the most.  Habitat for Humanity presented the perfect opportunity.”  

-          YY Lin, Chairman of SunGreen Systems

“Owning a Habitat for Humanity home has meant security, prosperity and accomplishing goals!”

-          Habitat Homeowner

About San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity:

San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity transforms lives and communities by bringing people together to build, renovate and repair affordable homes for families in need.

San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity (SGVHFH) engages the community to volunteer time, talent, money and donated materials to build affordable housing.  This builds stronger communities, better neighborhoods, stable families and relationships that will last for years to come. All areas of society–individuals, faith organizations, businesses and other agencies–can get involved.  Habitat for Humanity is a catalyst for positive change in the San Gabriel Valley and we invite you to join us!

About SunGreen System:

SunGreen Systems is a locally-owned, community-oriented Solar Integrator whose primary focus is customer service.  SunGreen works with each home and business owner individually to ensure their solar power system is optimized based on their unique situation.  Whether via a Solar Lease or direct purchase of your system, SunGreen provides long-term value through customized solar power solutions.

www.sungreensystems.com

12731 Ramona Blvd. Suite 208, Irwindale, CA 91706    Tel (626)851-0008   Fax (626)851-0001