On June 14, Waverley Greens, a multifamily property in Milwaukie, unveiled its new solar electric system. Mounted on 13 different buildings, the system constitutes the largest solar system in Milwaukie and the largest on a multifamily housing complex in Oregon.
The clean energy generated will power community spaces at the complex, including the community’s leasing office, recreation hall and fitness center. The system is expected to generate more than 425,000 kilowatt hours of renewable electricity, equivalent to powering 38 homes for a year and offsetting more than 200 tons of carbon emissions annually.
Working with Energy Trust, Waverley Greens has carried out multiple energy-efficiency upgrades to its buildings and units, including efficient lighting, water heating systems and heating systems. For the energy efficiency and solar projects, Waverley Greens received $93,744 in Energy Trust cash incentives to make the investments more affordable.
“We hope that we can become a model to show other apartment, townhouse and condominium owners and residents that making these kinds of investments is good for business and the planet, and adds value to our community,” said Waverley Greens Owner Scott Wyse.
At the solar system unveiling, Waverley Greens was joined by City of Milwaukie Mayor Mark Gamba and Portland General Electric President and CEO Maria Pope to celebrate this project as an example of Milwaukie’s commitment to a clean energy future and what can be accomplished when working toward a common vision.
“I would challenge all businesses to explore the good business sense that improving energy efficiency and adding significant solar make. There is no better time to invest in our collective future than right now,” said Mayor Mark Gamba.
“For the last 10 years, Waverley Greens and the Wyse family have proven that energy efficiency, and now solar power, really do pay off—on the bottom line, for the environment and for residents. Investment by investment, Waverley Greens’ commitment to reducing its energy use and carbon impact is a shining example for Oregon building owners and managers,” said Energy Trust Executive Director Michael Colgrove.
Multifamily property owners can connect with an Energy Trust advisor to get a free walkthrough survey to identify opportunities for energy-efficient upgrades and solar installations that qualify for cash incentives.