by CAN Communications Team

SFF Success Story: Marion County Humane Society

PROJECT DETAILS

  • FUNDING: Marion County Humane Society received a grant from the Solar Finance Fund totaling over $29,000.
  • PLACEMENT: Solar Holler installed a 158-panel solar system onto the roof of the new building, which should be complete by May 2023. It will generate 57 kilowatts of electricity for the shelter.
  • IMPACT: By saving money on electricity, Marion County Humane Society can dedicate more funds toward supporting the animals in their care.
  • COST SAVINGS: Once the new shelter opens, the Humane Society is projected to save over $202,500 in energy costs over the solar system’s lifetime.

The future looks bright for Marion County Humane Society as its new shelter equipped with a solar installation is set to open in Spring 2023. Marion County Humane Society is a nonprofit no-kill animal welfare organization in Fairmont, West Virginia. A $29,000 grant from CAN’s Appalachian Solar Finance Fund contributed to the shelter’s rooftop solar panel system with an estimated cost savings of about $202,500 through the system’s lifespan!

Working with over 56,000 residents and 5,000 animals each year, Marion County Humane Society acts as a community pillar for both people and pets in the area. A new and improved building with ample space for pets seeking a loving home is “90-95 percent done,” according to shelter manager Christie Mickey in an article with the Times West Virginia.

The roof of the new Marion County Humane Society shelter features 158 solar panels that will generate over 57 kilowatts of power for the building. Solar Holler, a local installation firm that works with organizations like the shelter, executed the project so that Marion County Humane Society could focus on providing care to its animals instead of worrying about utility costs.

By going solar, Marion County Humane Society is more equipped to serve its community in a sustainable way. The shelter’s decision has also gained local media coverage, providing a positive message to its community on not only protecting animals but our environment, too.

Donate to Marion County Humane Society here.

The Appalachian Solar Finance Fund is a program dedicated to spurring new solar development in coal-impacted counties of Central Appalachia. If you are interested in bringing solar power to your community, learn more about the fund and apply online for grants and technical assistance at https://solarfinancefund.org/

Additional Links

Marion County Humane Society

Media Coverage of the Project:

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