Habitat Cape Cod Receives $25,000 Gift For Green Energy

Filed Under: Non Profit News

A Habitat for Humanity home under construction in Chatham will have the cost of installing a solar panel array and non-combustion air source heat pump covered by a donation from long-time Habitat supporters David and Gail Oppenheim, who also live in Chatham.

The $25,000 gift will also pay for an ERV air exchange system, which enhances indoor air quality and helps minimize heating costs. The home is one of two being built on George Ryder Road South.

The Oppenheim family has supported other builds in the past including covering the cost of adding sheds to all properties of a past build in Chatham.  This is now a standard addition to all Habitat homes.

Habitat’s solar program originated from a need to provide clean-air and healthy homes. Low-and-moderate-income families are disproportionately exposed to inadequate and/or poorly functioning heating and cooling systems which can lead to mold and mildew.

Fossil-fuel source heating and cooling systems can produce airborne irritants exacerbating many lung conditions (American Lung Association).

For several years, a sole funder was Cape Light Compact (CLC). Recent funding shifts, however, have decreased CLC funds and Habitat is increasingly dependent on private donors and foundations—funding each solar array, one home at a time. This summer, Habitat had overwhelming support from the Cape Cod community raising over $242,000 for a Solar Funding Campaign.

If you are interested in learning more about Habitat Cape Cod’s Environmental Equity Sponsorship or green building practices, contact Ginny Irving, Director of Resource Development at ginny@habitatcapecod.org or call 508-362-3559, ext. 28