TO: Chair and Housing Authority Commissioners
THROUGH: Krishna Namburi, Executive Director
FROM: Nicole Utz, Director of Housing
SUBJECT:
title
Community Renewable Energy Grant Agreement to add solar systems to two low-income housing complexes
Ward(s): All Wards
Commissioners(s):All Commissioners
Neighborhood(s): All Neighborhoods
Result Area(s): Safe and Healthy Community; Welcome and Livable Neighborhood
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SUMMARY:
summary
The State of Oregon Department of Energy has awarded Salem Housing Authority with a Community Renewable Energy Grant in an amount not to exceed $294,967, for the purpose of adding solar systems that will offset energy costs for 114 apartments for seniors at two low-income housing locations, Southview Terrace and Englewood West.
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ISSUE:
Shall Salem Housing Authority authorize the director of Community Planning and Development to enter into a grant agreement with the State of Oregon Department of Energy for the purpose of receiving grant funds that will be applied to costs associated with the installation of solar systems at Southview Terrace and Englewood West apartment complexes.
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
Authorize the director of Community Planning and Development to enter into a grant agreement with the State of Oregon Department of Energy for the purpose of receiving grant funds that will be applied to costs associated with the installation of solar systems at Southview Terrace and Englewood West apartment complexes.
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FACTS AND FINDINGS:
The proposed solar project at Southview Terrace offers a strong opportunity to reduce long-term energy costs while contributing to the property’s sustainability goals. The recent feasibility assessment confirms the site is well-positioned for solar development, with a modeled Total Solar Resource Fraction (TSRF) of 93%. This level of solar access indicates minimal shading year-round which can significantly reduce the monthly electrical utility rate billed to SHA for the common areas.
The proposed solar installation at Englewood West presents a promising opportunity for significant energy cost savings and environmental benefits. The recent feasibility analysis has confirmed that the site is well-suited for solar energy production, with an average Total Solar Resource Fraction (TSRF) of 96%. This TSRF indicates minimal shading and good solar access, which can significantly reduce the monthly electrical utility rate billed to SHA for the common areas.
The total estimated cost of construction for both of these projects is $589,934 provided by the general contractor and based on historical data. The balance of the funding for the project will come from the to be formed Southwest Terrace, LLC and Englewood West, LLC through Low-income Tax Credits, HOME Partnership funding and additional State funds.
BACKGROUND:
Southview Terrace Apartments is located in the South-Central neighborhood of Salem at 375 Fairview Ave SE, Salem; built in 1991, the building has 60 units, comprised of one-bedroom homes in a three-story residential building. The property is serving Marion County Seniors over the age of 62 as well as those with disabilities. Englewood West Apartments is located in the Northeast neighborhood of Salem, at 1068 Park Ave NE, Salem; built in 1992, the building has 54 units, comprised of one-bedroom homes in a three-story residential building. The property is serving Marion County Seniors over the age of 62 as well as those with disabilities.
Nicole Utz
Director of Housing
Attachments:
1. Grant Agreement
2. Exhibit A - Project Description