The Solar industry had the second largest quarter in US History based on a recent report from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) — installing over 2.3 gigawatts of solar PV — and is expected to grow to 12 gigawatts of solar capacity by the end of 2017. GRID Alternatives contributed to this growth as the largest nonprofit solar organization in the industry, with nearly 1,200 systems installed in 2017. GRID is also an innovative industry leader through the development of our Multifamily Affordable Solar Program. Our teams assist developers and governmental agencies in providing renewable energy solutions to individuals who live in multifamily structures such as apartment complexes.
One of GRID IE’s newest team members, Anthony Papavero, is focused on continuing the positive industry trends in his position as a project developer for multifamily solar programs. He brings over 20 years of building and design expertise to GRID and has seen the solar industry evolve over the last decade. Anthony explained that he really became a solar advocate about nine years ago when the industry began the rapid expansion which still continues today.
“I started off as a volunteer at GRID,” Anthony recalled. “It was great training and I had never had that hands-on experience. GRID is one of the only organizations that has such in-depth training. Now I am looking forward to bringing my design and technical experience to a multifamily level.”
Anthony’s strategy for expanding multifamily solar in the Inland region is to leverage existing relationships as well as creating new partnerships with low-income housing developers. There are many opportunities available that will move from design to implementation. Anthony said he is passionate about senior housing projects and hopes to see more renewable energy resources provided to seniors. He is hopeful that solar policy decisions at the state and federal level will further stimulate growth for a positive long-term effect on the multifamily housing market.
“As a state, California is behind in the goals developed by our legislators,” Anthony said. “The industry is really pushing to keep up with the demands of low-income housing. I foresee a major effort to focus on multifamily in the near future and envision GRID as a go-to renewable energy resource for entities looking to develop or retrofit these types of communities in the Inland Empire.”
GRID IE has the resources to provide technical assistance, financing assistance and installation to a variety of organizations in the Inland Empire. These include food banks, city owned housing units, workforce development agencies, or other types of nonprofits. “We are currently working on several projects here in the IE and expect some major announcements in the coming months,” Anthony said. “Self-sustaining developments are in-demand and I am excited to provide the services necessary for these types of energy efficient projects to be successful.”
Our multifamily team offers portfolio assessment and technical assistance to a wide range of potential clients. If you are a developer, affordable housing provider, city or county multifamily administrator call Anthony today at 951.465.2864. You can also reach Anthony by email at apapavero@gridalternatives.org.