Image source: Canva.com
On January 13, the Climate Access Fund (CAF) inaugurated a $2.4 million, 808-kW rooftop community solar project in East Baltimore, aimed at lowering electricity costs for low-income households. The Solar4Us @ Henderson-Hopkins project, located on the rooftop of the Elmer A. Henderson School, is expected to save approximately 150 households nearly $1 million over 35 years.
As a nonprofit green bank, CAF focuses on reducing energy burdens in historically underserved communities. Maryland’s community solar program enables households to benefit from solar energy bill discounts without installing panels themselves. The Henderson-Hopkins project ensures 100% of its energy benefits go to low-to-moderate income households, thanks to partnerships with Neighborhood Sun and Urban Clean Energy Advisors.
The project also created local job opportunities, employing 12 Maryland residents and offering job training through CivicWorks. CAF plans to replicate this model across Maryland, leveraging funding from the federal Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, a key component of the Inflation Reduction Act. Senator Chris Van Hollen, who played a pivotal role in establishing the fund, praised the initiative as a blueprint for advancing clean energy and supporting local communities.
Maryland Energy Administration seeks public input ahead of solar access program launch for FY25
CAF is seeking additional partners and locations statewide to expand its Solar4Us projects.
Source: Solar Power World
