In a groundbreaking initiative for sustainable housing, Sol-Ark, a U.S.-based manufacturer of hybrid inverters and energy storage solutions, has teamed up with Twende Solar and K2 Systems to bring electricity to Dignity Village, a self-governed transitional housing community in Portland, Oregon. This marks a significant milestone in efforts to support underserved populations through the use of renewable energy.
The recently installed 60kW solar array utilizes Sol-Ark inverters and now provides clean electricity to 31 rooftops, lighting up 43 homes and the central Commons building. For the first time in its two-decade history, Dignity Village can count on a reliable power source for lighting, heating, cooling, and device charging, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Community Effort in Action
More than 80 volunteers, alongside 20 residents, dedicated over 800 hours to the installation of 200 solar panels, ensuring that every home is wired for modern energy needs. This upgrade not only adds solar capacity but also replaces propane heating with safer, cleaner systems. It is projected that the community will save at least $3,000 annually, funds that will help support essential services within Dignity Village.
Founded in 2000, Dignity Village is recognized as the nation’s longest-standing sanctioned tiny home community catering to individuals transitioning out of homelessness. Its residents have historically relied on income from firewood sales, metal recycling, and pooled utilities. However, rising electricity costs had threatened their sustainability—until this transformative project.
A Purpose-Driven Partnership
Twende Solar spearheaded the project, with rooftop racking supplied by K2 Systems and battery storage courtesy of Rolls Battery Engineering. Financial backing came from the Portland Clean Energy Fund, in collaboration with Verde Builds, showcasing a community effort to tackle energy inequities.
“At Sol-Ark, we don’t just engineer power systems—we invest in people,” said Tom Brennan, CTO of Sol-Ark. He emphasized that Dignity Village serves as a model for what can be achieved when infrastructure and individual dignity intersect.
This project embodies Sol-Ark’s Sol-Ark Cares initiative, which is dedicated to promoting energy equity through community-led solar solutions. As Dignity Village harnesses clean energy, its residents take a significant step towards a more sustainable and empowered future.
