Climate Smart Missoula Funds Home ReSource Solar Array
A new 115-panel solar system now powers the entirety of the Home ReSource facility in Missoula.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Climate Smart Missoula provided critical gap funding to complete a 60-kilowatt solar array at the Home ReSource facility. The project, which covers 100% of the building's energy needs, moved forward despite an $8,000 budget shortfall caused by rising material prices.
Why it matters
The Climate Catalyst Fund stepped in to bridge the financing gap after the cancellation of federal Inflation Reduction Act funding. This shift in priorities highlights the growing role of private and local support in maintaining energy-efficient projects during an affordability crisis.
The system features 115 solar panels capable of producing 60 kilowatts of power. This setup provides 100% of the energy required to operate the Home ReSource facility.
The players
Climate Smart Missoula
This organization leads local sustainability initiatives and manages the Climate Catalyst Fund.
Home ReSource
This facility serves as a community hub that operates the newly installed 60-kilowatt solar array.
Clearwater Credit Union
This financial institution provides backing for local emission-reduction projects to offset its corporate carbon footprint.
Cornerstone Apartments
This residential site received heat pump installations financed through the Climate Catalyst Fund.
The details
The project faced increased costs due to structural roof limitations and fluctuating material prices. Climate Smart Missoula utilized the Climate Catalyst Fund, which is supported by individual donations and Clearwater Credit Union, to ensure the installation reached completion.
Timeline
October 2026: Home ReSource held a ceremony to celebrate the completion of the solar array.
Roadmap
The transition to sustainable energy infrastructure is increasingly relying on local private funding models rather than federal support. This project reflects a broader trend of community organizations internalizing the costs of energy efficiency to maintain long-term operational sustainability.
The installation at Home ReSource demonstrates how local facilities are mitigating long-term energy costs through solar investment. Residents may see similar models applied to other local infrastructure as organizations seek to stabilize expenses against rising material costs.
The takeaway
Local communities are increasingly leveraging individual donations and credit union partnerships to fill funding gaps for green infrastructure. These efforts allow essential energy projects to proceed despite the recent loss of federal financial assistance.
Further reading
Learn more about local sustainable energy initiatives in our Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Montana Free Press.
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Should local nonprofits prioritize filling funding gaps left by federal climate policy changes?
