On Friday, March 13 at 2 p.m. Habitat for Humanity of Waldo County will cut the ribbon on a new rooftop solar system at the ReStore at 92 Belmont Ave. in Belfast, Maine.
The solar system is projected to generate over $200,000 in savings for their affordable housing mission over the next 30 years. The event will include remarks from community leaders and partners.
The 18.92-kilowatt system, installed in partnership with nonprofit solar developer Everybody Solar and local installer SunDog Solar, will fully offset — and slightly exceed — the ReStore’s electricity use, producing 110% of the facility’s annual needs. Over the next 30 years, the system is projected to generate more than $200,000 in electricity savings compared to traditional utility costs.
Those savings will remain in Waldo County — strengthening affordable housing efforts and critical repair programs for local families.
“Solar isn’t just about panels on a roof — it’s about what those panels make possible. Over the next 30 years, this system is projected to return more than $200,000 to Habitat’s housing mission. That kind of long-term stability helps ensure Habitat can continue building homes and completing repairs for decades to come,” said Myriam Scally, executive director of Everybody Solar.
Habitat for Humanity of Waldo County builds and repairs homes for low-income families throughout the region. Revenue from the ReStore supports new home construction and essential home repairs that allow residents to remain safely and independently in their homes.
“The activation of this system strengthens our long-term stability. Every dollar we save on electricity is a dollar we can reinvest in building homes, completing essential repairs, and serving more families in our community,” said Jill Riley, ReStore manager for Habitat for Humanity of Waldo County.
The solar array is expected to produce 21,164 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually and prevent 20,597 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year — the equivalent of planting 154 trees or taking 3 cars off the road, every year.
By combining affordable housing with renewable energy, the project demonstrates how practical sustainability measures can strengthen nonprofit operations while contributing to Maine’s clean energy goals.
About Habitat for Humanity of Waldo County
Habitat for Humanity of Waldo County (HFHWC) is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Their mission is to build strength, stability, self-reliance, and shelter in partnership with low-income residents of Waldo County.
About Everybody Solar
Everybody Solar is a national nonprofit that provides free solar installations to community-based nonprofits at no cost — no debt, no shared ownership, no strings attached. Since its founding, Everybody Solar has completed projects across multiple states, saving partner organizations millions in electricity costs and redirecting those savings into the communities they serve.
The organization believes that nonprofits doing the most important work shouldn’t have to choose between keeping the lights on and fulfilling their mission.
