Solar Panel installation begins at Canyon Pointe affordable housing site

Boulder Housing Partners (BHP) will begin installation of solar panels this week at Canyon Pointe affordable housing site located at 700 Walnut Ave.  Canyon Pointe consists of 81 one-bedroom apartments that are part of the Section 8 Project Based program for residents age 62 years and older.

The 58.8 kW solar installations will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the City of Boulder and reduce energy bill costs by approximately $7000 per year.  BHP has contracted with Standard Renewable Energy to perform the work.

Funding for the project comes from low interest financing provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the HUD Office of Affordable Housing Preservation, Green Retrofit Program.  The cost for the installation is $240,000.  BHP is also receiving rebates from Xcel Energy for $105,00.

In addition to the solar panels, the Green Retrofit Program will be providing $1.1 million worth of Green Renovations for the Canyon Pointe Apartments during the next several months.  Improvements with direct impact to the residents include new windows and siding, new sliding doors, improved roof insulation, new kitchens and bathrooms for about half the apartments, ceiling fans, interior air quality upgrades, a new boiler, new lighting and some water saving devices.  Not only will the residents of Canyon Pointe experience a more comfortable and green living environment, Boulder Housing Partners will realize reduced energy bills for the building.