The Anchor Center for Blind Children, Colorado’s only nonprofit dedicated to serving young children who are blind or visually impaired, has taken a major step toward sustainability and financial resilience with the completion of a 128 kW DC rooftop solar array at 2550 Roslyn Street, Denver.
The flush-mount solar system, designed and installed by Colorado-based employee-owned cooperative Namaste Solar, is projected to save the not-for-profit $1,055,393 over its 30-year lifespan. These savings will directly support the Anchor Center’s nationally recognized programs from early intervention to therapy and family coaching.
The project’s funding model includes a $244,000 grant from the City of Denver’s Renewables and Resiliency program, $139,356 in Renewable Energy Credits from Xcel Energy, $14,550 from Xcel’s Solar Rewards program for nonprofits, and approximately $110,000 in federal Elective Pay tax credits made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act. Additionally, it is calculated that the solar array will yield $547,487 in total utility savings over the system’s 30-year estimated useful life. Thanks to these combined savings and incentives, the organization breaks even on its investment in year one and remains cash flow positive for the life of the system.
“This project is about so much more than solar panels. It’s about ensuring that more children receive the life-changing services they need,” said Meghan Klassen, executive director of Anchor Center for Blind Children. “With the support of City of Denver grant funding, federal Elective Pay, and Namaste Solar’s expertise, we’re able to invest in clean energy and put significant savings back into our mission.”
The project also provided a boost to Colorado’s clean energy economy, supporting over 15 local, good-paying jobs during installation.
“As a local, mission-driven cooperative, we believe solar energy should empower the communities we live and work in, and this project is a perfect example,” said Rachel Mountain, co-owner and director of commercial sales at Namaste Solar. “Anchor Center is transforming lives, and we’re proud to be their partner in creating long-term savings through renewable energy.”
