Queensbridge solar program powers homes and job prospects

NYCHA residents learned to install solar panels before starting new jobs adding the renewable energy systems on top of the Queensbridge Houses. Photo Courtesy of NYCHA

By Rachel Vick

A team of NYCHA tenants are wrapping up the installation of solar panels atop five buildings at the Queensbridge Houses, the first phase of an initiative intended to bring renewable energy to the public housing complex while training residents for careers in the green revolution.

Program participant Johan Ortiz said that learning to install solar technology was a challenge that improved his confidence and opened a world of career opportunities. 

“When I got the understanding of how the system worked I picked up the pace and learned these valuable skills that can be used on the next job site,” said Ortiz, who said he became interested in the project after working as a residential electrician. “I’m a slow learner but the fact that I can understand what's going on gives me a boost of self esteem and can help me be more independent.“

He said the solar jobs show other Queensbridge residents what’s possible in the renewable energy sector.

 “I feel like I'm a positive influence,” he said. “I didn't think I was the person who would make a positive change or impact until I got here and started doing it, and it’s been really  moving so far.”

Panels installed by Ortiz and his coworkers across the sprawling complex will generate 1.8 Megawatts of clean energy and allow the first group of residents to take advantage of lower-cost electricity, according to NYCHA. 

Dozens of new solar panels have been installed as part of NYCHA’s approach to sustainability. Eagle file photo by Rachel Vick

The Queensbridge installation is the next step as part of the NYCHA Sustainability Agenda goal of generating 25 megawatts of solar power by 2025 city-wide.

“When we conceived this program there was no playbook, there weren't housing authorities doing the same thing” said NYCHA Energy and Sustainability Programs Vice President Vlada Kenniff. “It hits many things we wanted to do in terms of bringing revenue, training and preparing residents for the green transition — green energy jobs will grow and this  has positioned the NYCHA residents for more opportunities in the future.”

A total of 17 participants were fully trained in solar installation basics through Green City Force, which works to prepare and connect residents to green jobs as opportunities for technical careers in solar and wind energy production steadily increase.

Aram Marcelle, alumni training and advancement manager with GCF, said they worked with the Queensbridge Tenants Association because they “don't want to come in and be outsiders, we want to work with community leaders.” 

After a three-week training curriculum, participants walk away with solar installation skills and OSHA certification, which can be used for other construction jobs. 

“The amazing thing about it is that it isn’t just about providing low cost energy, it's about connecting people to jobs and a sustainable career,” Marcelle said. “We want the community to be a part of the work. We don't have a green economy if it's not an inclusive economy.”

“That's the only way we’re going to reach true sustainability, by making sure it's equitable and environmentally just,” he added. “This is the future. There have been hurdles and obstacles but we have to combat climate change. This is the only way to go.”