Ecogy Energy, together with the American Red Cross, unveiled a 120.1 kilowatt DC solar system, developed by Brooklyn-based Ecogy, that will provide the nonprofit’s building in Tinton Falls with all the solar energy it needs to offset annual on-site electricity use, making the building net-zero.
The Red Cross New Jersey Region entered the solar development process with its local community at heart and top of mind. By installing solar on-site, the Red Cross will not only reduce its own need for electricity, but will help New Jersey reach its goal of 50% renewable energy sources by 2030.
The first rooftop solar array system (completed in 2022) will directly provide power for on-site usage. The second system, however, will be a community solar project that will provide no-cost subscriptions to local residents. These subscriptions will enable local households to access renewable energy and receive a discount on a portion of their electric bill with no cost to sign up.
“The savings generated by building this solar system atop our roof will allow us to commit even more resources to providing quality support to communities and families in need,” Rosie Taravella, regional CEO, Red Cross New Jersey Region, said. “As a humanitarian organization that serves families and communities impacted by climate disasters, our goal is to minimize our own environmental footprint. We’re excited to be doing our part here in New Jersey.”
The 120.1 kWdc rooftop system will produce roughly 2.7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity over the next 20 years, equivalent to powering 19 homes over the same term, or the emissions avoided from burning over 2.1 million pounds of coal.
The above environmental benefits afforded by the solar array will be instrumental in helping the Red Cross become a more sustainable organization, while also creating a blueprint for future installations.
