Pensacola, FL - Pensacola Habitat for Humanity, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties, expresses deep appreciation for being invited to be a part of the groundbreaking initiative announced this week by the Florida Solar for All (FSFA) Coalition. The FSFA Coalition proudly disclosed the receipt of a significant $156.1 million award from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Solar for All competition. This achievement represents a monumental step towards cultivating sustainability and inclusivity within Florida communities, especially those made up of low to moderate-income households. 

 A fundamental part of the Pensacola Habitat for Humanity mission has always been to not only provide affordable homeownership opportunities but to also deliver energy-efficient homes that will ensure stability and comfort for years and generations to come.  The local organization is supporting the consortium partners like SELF, SUN, and The Nature Conservancy in their efforts to advance energy and resource solutions for local families and communities. 

 Accessible and affordable energy efficiency could be transformative for low-income families who too often must choose between paying this month’s energy bill or paying for food or medicine. More energy-efficient housing could translate into real savings for families and would result in healthier, more decent places to live. Higher energy performance standards mean better health. As stated in Habitat for Humanity International's 2017 Shelter Report, they found that low-income families in the U.S. spend anywhere from 17 percent to 50 percent of their incomes on household energy, whereas others spend an average of 4 percent. 

 "We know that clean, renewable energy is not only good for the environment but can also help families save money on their utility bills in the long run," says Sam Young, President and CEO of Pensacola Habitat for Humanity. "As we continue to pursue our mission of affordable homeownership, we're proud to prioritize energy efficiency as a core value. We're grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and make a positive impact in the lives of our homebuyers." 

As they explore this option, Pensacola Habitat for Humanity wants to ensure they're making the best choices for their communities. Pensacola Habitat is talking to experts, conducting research, and gathering information to see if solar energy could be a good fit for their homebuilding and home repair programs.  

Stay tuned as Pensacola Habitat continues this solar energy journey! If you have any insights or want to share your experiences with solar power, they'd love to hear from you. For more information on Pensacola Habitat for Humanity's programs or to get involved, visit pensacolahabitat.org or call 850-434-5456. 

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