NOLA Public Schools is launching a community solar project with Green Coast Enterprises and Working Power. This initiative will build solar sites on two school campuses, generating 6.7 MW of clean energy that is expected to benefit 1,400 households. Participating families can expect savings up to $250 annually on their energy bills, totaling an estimated $8.6 million in community savings over the project’s lifespan. The project also creates good jobs and brings income to NOLA Public Schools through lease agreements.
Meanwhile, the City has begun demolishing homes in Gordon Plaza, a former Superfund site, to make room for a solar farm. Originally marketed as affordable housing, Gordon Plaza became a symbol of environmental injustice after it was revealed that the area’s soil contained hazardous waste from an old landfill. The new solar farm will transform this once-toxic site into a source of clean energy, helping the City reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
The Alliance for Affordable Energy is thrilled to see the recent community solar rule amendments we supported sparking new community solar development, with these two pioneering projects leading the way and nearly 60 MW of projects now in development in Orleans Parish. We look forward to seeing community solar continue to grow and benefit residents by lowering energy costs, creating jobs, and reducing emissions.
