Richmond invites residents to learn about residential solar pilot project on Saturday
By Chris Treadway Contra Costa Times
Posted: 03/05/15, 5:36 PM PST | Updated: 2 hrs ago
RICHMOND -- A 1.1-kilowatt solar system is being installed on a home in the historic Atchison Village residential community as part of a pilot project intended to install free or low-cost solar electric systems at 140 residences around the city.
The public is invited to come to Atchison Village, near the foot of Macdonald Avenue by the Richmond Parkway, from 1 to 3 p.m. March 7 to see the installation take place and learn more about opportunities available to homeowners through the partnership between the city and nonprofit solar installer GRID Alternatives (www.gridalternatives.org).
The partners plan to invest $2.2 million in new affordable installations that will allow residents to choose a green alternative and save on electrical bills.
Residents at Atchison Village, the historic housing complex built for the war era shipyards in Richmond, "collaborated with GRID and city staff to design a system with minimal visual impact to the home's historic character," according to a news release.
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Program officials say the system "is expected to offset the home's utility costs by $9,300 and prevent 30 tons of greenhouse gas emissions."
"Installing solar at Atchison Village is an opportunity to preserve history and promote progress," Richmond Mayor Tom Butt said in the news release. "I hope the entire village participates in the program to demonstrate the importance of both Richmond's rich history and evolution to green energy."
Richmond homeowners can call 510-731-1333 or send an email to baoutreach@gridalternatives.org to find out if they qualify to receive a free or low-cost solar installation.