Volunteers

The $3.5 million project is the result of a partnership between the Housing Authority of Pueblo and Black Hills Energy. Sixty percent of the electricity generated by the solar panels would be dedicated to between 100 and 150 low-income households, said Ted Ortiviz, director of the housing authority.

Those households are expected to save between $200 and $300 a year on their electric bills.

Steven Donerson and Vernon Davis, who completed GRID Mid-Atlantic’s Solar Works DC training program, both began working as multifamily solar installers with the nonprofit on Jan. 14.

Not only were 16 solar panels being installed for free on her house, but her son Rodney was leading the crew. Rodney took classes through GRID Alternatives, a nonprofit that specializes in solar projects. His mom made sure he made it to every class.

GRID Alternatives' Solar Spring Break brings together students who want to learn about solar design and installation with low-income families who want to go solar and save money on their electric bills.