RenewAll Lights the Way for Community Revitalization
PROJECT DETAILS
- FUNDING: $33,350 grant from the Solar Finance Fund
- TOTAL SOLAR PROJECT COST: $77,115
- PLACEMENT: 25.7-kilowatt rooftop-mounted solar array
- ENERGY PRODUCTION: 33,170 kWh
- COST SAVINGS: $130,000 lifetime cost savings
In the heart of West Huntington, WV, a spark of innovation is fueling a brighter future. RenewAll, a new nonprofit community development corporation, is spearheading a transformational solar project that will strengthen its revitalization mission while empowering the local community. With the support of the Appalachian Solar Finance Fund (SFF), RenewAll weaves together sustainability with financial efficiency to create lasting change.
The solar installation is just one piece of a broader vision. The building, a critical community asset, is home to small businesses, a local history museum, and arts programs featuring local artists. These initiatives are vital to the community, providing opportunities for education, creativity, and economic development.
From Challenges to Opportunity
Like many small nonprofits, RenewAll faced challenges securing financing for its solar initiative. Though it already had construction-ready plans from a qualified architectural firm, it needed additional funding and technical support to realize its vision fully.
The Appalachian Solar Finance Fund stepped in to bridge the gap, providing $33,350 in funding. This financial boost reduces the project’s debt burden, enabling RenewAll to reinvest savings into its mission rather than paying interest on loans. SFF’s support also serves as a powerful catalyst, helping RenewAll secure additional funding from local government and grant sources to amplify their impact.
For RenewAll, bringing new resources to the neighborhood is key to our success. The support from SFF helps us meet our immediate needs and strengthens our ability to leverage lasting partnerships that sustain our revitalization work.
Lauren Kemp, project leader for RenewAll
Supported by the Community
RenewAll’s leadership and board of directors are fully behind this project. By reducing energy costs, the organization can allocate more resources to its programs, which range from supporting local businesses to preserving the area’s rich history.
“This project marks the completion of the first phase of a major renovation project that will transform historic buildings into a modern engine for neighborhood opportunities,” Kemp said. “By lowering our operating costs and producing energy on-site, we can reinvest those savings into the people and places that make this community special.”
With a new roof and solar array installed, RenewAll will be better positioned to tackle other renovations that support its mission. This project invests in the neighborhood’s future, demonstrating how innovative solutions like solar energy can drive progress in underserved communities.
The Path Ahead
RenewAll’s journey is a shining example of how targeted solar investments can unlock economic opportunity and create meaningful impact. With the Appalachian Solar Finance Fund’s support, they’re well on their way to a brighter, more sustainable future.The Appalachian Solar Finance Fund is a regional financial and technical assistance program dedicated to spurring new solar development in coal-impacted counties of Central Appalachia. To bring solar power to your community, learn about the fund works and apply online for grants and technical assistance.
