Phoenix Housing for Veterans & Homeless Powered by Solar

Verde Villas' system comprises 325 SolarWorld modules split between rooftop and custom-built steel parking structures.

Sun Valley Solar Solutions has partnered with Catholic Charities Community Services of Arizona to bring affordable, sustainable housing to veterans and formerly homeless families.

Verde Villas, a multi-family complex in the city’s Arcadia district, opened its doors in 2014 after an extensive renovation. The property was completely reborn thanks to the efforts of Catholic Charities Community Services in partnership with the Foundation for Senior Living and Chandler-based Sun Valley Solar Solutions.

Sun Valley Solar Solutions joined Catholic Charities Community Services to provide both funding and design and installation services for the 91kW solar array. As Steve Capobres, VP of Business Development at Catholic Charities, explained, the organization has long advocated for green-friendly housing. “Solar and other green initiatives enable us to dramatically reduce our operating costs – freeing money that goes directly back to support our programs.”

The Sun Valley Solar Solutions system comprises 325 SolarWorld modules split between rooftop and custom-built steel parking structures. Commissioned in late 2014, Verde Villas’ new solar energy plant is projected to produce 155,402 kWh per year or nearly 60 percent of the facility’s overall electricity needs.

Custom support structures provide additional solar capacity and shaded parking for Villa residents.

The entire renovation was overseen by the Arizona non-profit Foundation for Senior Living (FSL), which manages the property on behalf of Catholic Charities Community Services.

“Sun Valley Solar Solutions was a real partner from start to finish,” stated FSL’s Chief of Real Estate Services, Steve Hastings. “They took the time to understand the nature of our mission and then guided our entire team through a process that allowed us to understand the environmental benefits and financial savings that only solar can provide.”

Hastings also gave high marks to the Sun Valley Solar Solutions design and installation team. “Everything was handled with the utmost professionalism. Communication was excellent, and the project was delivered on schedule and within budget.”

Sun Valley Solar Solutions CEO Russ Patzer adds, “SVSS was founded in Arizona, and all our employees make their home here. The residents of Verde Villas are our friends, neighbors, and family. We are exceptionally proud to partner with Catholic Charities on this project and we are pleased to know that our technology will help free resources for charitable programs across Arizona.”