Overview
Utilizing a 15kw PV solar array installed by Solar Energy Systems of Brooklyn, NY, Cherry Tree Association (CTA) will power their Casa del Sol community center by harnessing the sun's energy. Because the building does not currently rely upon electricity, the move to solar enables CTA to bypass the grid entirely, become energy independent, and most importantly, become emissions neutral. Quite fittingly, Casa del Sol is Spanish for House of the Sun, a very appropriate moniker in this instance.
CTA has a strong community presence in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx, NY. Their Casa del Sol center houses community, artisan and cultural space. A long term vision for Casa del Sol, entitled Future City, aims to transform the existing space into a fully functional eco-center using green building design and construction.
Clean Air Communities is proud to be the first organization to recognize this vision through awarding CTA a grant of $225,000.00. The total value of this project, including leveraged funding from NYSERDA and in-kind contributions, exceeds $400,000.00. Alternative Power, Brooklyn Architects Collective, and Greenstreet Construction are the named partners contributing to this project. Together, they have worked tirelessly in drafting engineering draws, submitting architectural designs, and connecting with city building officials to ensure the project moves forward.
Education and Outreach
CTA will conduct a one-year education, outreach and communication program to promote solar energy in the community. A mobile, solar powered computer will be the star attraction during community events. Tours of the building will be offered. Finally, a façade of the building that faces the Brucker Expressway will be adorned with a CAC logo to promote the project. Big Hands, a renowned NY art company, will design and paint this large mural for the traveling world to gaze upon.
Partners
Brooklyn Architects Collective
Solar Energy Systems
Greenstreet Environmental Construction
Mott Haven Community Organization
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
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