FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4 2015 12:00:00:000AM
News Media Contact: Joseph Barrios, (520) 884-3725, jbarrios@tep.com
TEP, UES Support New Program To Install Solar On Habitat For Humanity Homes
Tucson, Ariz. — Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and sister company UniSource Energy Services (UES) have contributed $25,000 to kick-start a fundraising effort to install solar arrays on Habitat for Humanity homes.
The new TEP/UES Voluntary Solar Contribution Program directs contributions to a fund managed by the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF). The proceeds will fund systems that help Habitat for Humanity’s clients reduce their energy expenses while contributing to Arizona’s growing green energy portfolio.
“This program represents another valuable partnership with Habitat that allows us to continue to promote solar energy while reducing energy costs for families transitioning out of poverty,” said David G. Hutchens, TEP’s President and Chief Executive Officer.
Funds contributed to the program will pay for system purchase, installation and five years of maintenance. Habitat for Humanity’s Arizona chapters will select installation sites and clients who satisfy its requirements regarding home ownership and “sweat equity.” Licensed, qualified solar installers will install and maintain the systems.
Donations to the program must be paid directly to the ACF, a nonprofit organization responsible for administering program funds. Anyone can contribute, and all donations to the ACF are tax-deductible. To donate, visit azfoundation.org/TEP-UES.
“Habitat Tucson is proud of our partnership with TEP,” said T. VanHook, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Tucson. “We understand how important energy efficient homes are for our low-income partners. TEP’s Voluntary Solar Contribution Program adds a wonderful new dimension to the standards we use in our homes by incorporating renewable energy.”
TEP’s longstanding partnership with Habitat for Humanity began nearly two decades ago when employee volunteers from TEP’s Community Action Team donated their personal time to help build energy-efficient homes for the agency’s clients. TEP continues to support the agency through volunteerism and financial contributions. Habitat for Humanity also participates in the TEP-backed Trees for Tucson program, planting shade trees near homes to reduce energy costs.
TEP provides safe, reliable electric service to approximately 414,000 customers in southern Arizona. To learn more, visit tep.com. Sister company UES provides electric service to about 93,000 customers in Mohave and Santa Cruz Counties and natural gas service to approximately 150,000 customers in northern and southern Arizona. For more information, visit uesaz.com.
