Just in time for Thanksgiving, Reno-based nonprofit Black Rock Solar has completed installation of a 130-panel photovoltaic array on the roof of Friends in Service Helping in Carson City.
That means 28 kilowatts of clean energy helping FISH provide medical services, groceries, showers, clean clothes, and yes, a Thanksgiving meal to those in the capital city who need it most.
“The savings from this array will make it possible for us to do more for our people,” says Jim Peckham, executive director at FISH. “For example, it could double the amount of food we can serve in our dining room, or cover the cost of the insulin we provide to diabetic patients.”
The $112,000 array was built at no cost to the nonprofit. Funded through an NV Energy rebate and a $15,000 crowd-funding campaign conducted by Black Rock Solar, FISH will now save more than $5,000 each year on its power bills. That adds up to $125,000 over the next 25 years — money that FISH can reinvest in its goal of giving the homeless and needy “not just a handout, but a hand up.”
“This has been a special project for us,” said Black Rock Solar Deputy Director Marnee Benson, “because of both the funding requirements and technical challenges. We’re pleased the array is completed just in time for the holidays, so FISH can start channeling more of their donations directly into programs and services.”
The public is welcome at the solar array dedication on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 2:15 p.m. at the FISH thrift store and family dining room at 138 E. Long St., Carson City.
Black Rock Solar is a Reno-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on speeding the adoption of clean energy through installation, education, and energy efficiency. By installing solar at low or no cost for schools, tribes, rural communities, and other non-profits, Black Rock Solar puts much needed funds directly into the hands of those who need it most.
FISH has been serving Northern Nevada’s homeless and hungry since 1979. A non-profit organization based in Carson City, it operates multiple thrift stores, a counseling center, a dining room and food pantry, shelter facilities and a medical clinic. FISH is the most complete services provider in Northern Nevada, serving 18,337 people in 2012 alone.