Southface Institute: Blog

Reduce Energy Burden with Rooftop Solar

Policy
Renewable Energy
Rooftop solar is one clean-energy solution that can help address the energy burden in low-income areas and communities of color. Research shows that most solar panels are found in majority-white communities, so even as solar use increases, not all communities can reap the cost-saving benefits on their energy bills.

Renewable Energy Surpasses Coal

Renewable Energy
In April, for the first time, renewable energy from solar, wind and hydropower generated more electricity than coal every day for the entire month, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). In comparison, renewables beat coal only 38 days in all of 2019. This shift is tied to many reasons, including the economic slowdown from COVID-19.

Affordable Housing Community Unveils Rooftop Solar Array

Blog
Atlanta, GA—February 25, 2020— Today at 3:30 p.m., Solarize Atlanta will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Quest Communities, unveiling a donated solar array. Members of the Atlanta City Council will speak at the community gathering, as well as Nathaniel Smith, Chief Equity Officer of Partnership for Southern Equity. Quest Communities, a West Atlanta affordable housing development, is located at 878 Rock St NW, Atlanta GA, 30314.

Solar Arrays: A Vegetable’s Best Friend?

Renewable Energy
A new study has found a beneficial relationship between solar arrays and agricultural areas. Many animals and vegetable crops can thrive with the partial shade from the solar arrays. In turn, farmers receive a financial benefit from switching to renewable energy. This symbiotic relationship is becoming known as an “agrivoltaic system."

Extreme Makeover for U.S. Power Grid as Renewables Increase

Renewable Energy
Clean energy is becoming mainstream, with roughly 15% of the electricity generated in the U.S. coming from sources like solar and wind. As renewable energy challenges the traditional methods of electricity generation, grid infrastructure is being updated so renewables can prosper—no easy task.

Resilience Hubs: Equitable Resource Centers That Foster Community and Give Support During Emergencies

Communities
Renewable Energy
During times of natural disaster, an entire network of resources and people must come together to repair and rebuild essential infrastructure that allows for provision of critical services—including medical care, clean water and fresh food—all of which require a reliable and steady source of electricity. Individual entities might provide for their own backup power with generators or microgrids that continue working when shared electrical infrastructure is down. But how can communities ensure more equitable access to electricity during emergencies? Resilience hubs are one way.