To those struggling in poverty or facing homelessness, low-income supportive housing can be a life-changing step towards economic security. For the residents of Emerson Arms in Martinez, 7th Avenue Villages in Hacienda Heights, and Homeward Bound of Marin’s Family Center in San Rafael, these spaces are more than just a place to stay – they are a chance to begin again. However, with the high cost of living in San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles County, rising energy costs, and more severe heat waves, it takes a lot of resources to keep these homes up and running safely and efficiently.
A large solar array installed on the 7th Ave Villages rooftop and carport reduce emissions and lower energy costs for the newly renovated all-electric property.
Thanks to funding from California Climate Investments, the Low-Income Weatherization Program’s Multi-Family Energy Efficiency and Renewables Component (LIWP Multi-Family) helps maintain the affordability of supportive housing through no-cost renovations that create safe and comfortable spaces for tenants, lower energy costs for both residents and affordable housing operators, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to create a healthier environment for all.
“We embarked on the 7th Avenue motel conversion with a strong desire to make the project as energy-efficient and climate-resilient as we could,” said Mary-Jane Wagle, CEO of Women Organizing Resources Knowledge & Services (WORKS), a nonprofit and housing operator dedicated to affordable housing development. “The technical assistance and incentives from the LIWP multi-family program were absolutely key in helping us deliver a low carbon, all-electric shelter project that is resilient-ready for the vulnerable communities we serve.”
Anthony Jackson and Davon Jackson removing gas stoves from Emerson Arms.
The Association for Energy Affordability, which administers LIWP Multi-Family statewide, helps eligible housing developments find the best possible energy efficiency upgrades available under the program. Included in the upgrades at Emerson Arms, 7th Avenue Villages, and Homeward Bound were mini-split heat pump systems and heat pump water heaters, which replaced outdated gas systems and helped lower energy costs. Paired solar photovoltaic systems help the properties manage their long-term electric utility costs and afford the transition to all-electric. Tenants also have new induction ranges with built-in energy storage where they can make home-cooked meals. These all-electric renovation projects allow each space to run safely and affordably for years to come, all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on natural gas.
7th Ave Villages undergoes significant construction for their all-electric retrofit including solar panels, heat pump water heaters, and high-efficiency HVAC systems.
“LIWP has been instrumental in helping Eden Housing implement a phased energy retrofit project,” said Anish Tilak, Associate Director of Building Performance and Sustainability at Emerson Arms. “The project will improve our tenants’ quality of life by reducing energy bills and providing access to clean, modern appliances.”
LIWP Multi-Family is far-reaching, helping eligible low-income supportive housing developments throughout California. Everyone deserves the comfort, safety, and dignity of a warm home. The partnerships between the Department of Community Services and Development, California Climate Investments, and the Association for Energy Affordability make that possible without compromising on affordability and while supporting a healthier environment.