Pisgah Energy Installed Solar at Asheville Apartments
New solar arrays at Star Point Apartments and Lakeshore Villas aim to support housing affordability.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Pisgah Energy has completed the installation of rooftop solar arrays at two Asheville housing communities. The project is designed to reduce property operating costs and ensure long-term housing affordability.
Why it matters
Reducing energy expenditures allows non-profit housing providers to direct more resources toward maintaining lower rents for residents. These systems provide a sustainable model for property management that mitigates rising utility costs.
The five new solar systems provide a total capacity of 212 kW and are expected to generate over 300,000 kWh of electricity annually. These additions bring the total number of multifamily housing communities with renewable energy to six.
The players
Pisgah Energy
This firm specializes in the design, development, and installation of solar energy systems for commercial and residential properties.
Mountain Housing Opportunities
This non-profit organization develops and manages affordable housing options for low-income residents in the Asheville region.
Erna Earle
She provided the philanthropic gift that served as a catalyst for the solar infrastructure installations.
The details
Pisgah Energy managed the design, development, and installation of the rooftop solar arrays using SEG panels and SolarEdge inverters. The project was supported by a 2020 philanthropic gift from Erna Earle, which helped fund the necessary energy infrastructure.
Timeline
2020: Erna Earle made the initial contribution for solar infrastructure.
September 2026: Pisgah Energy completed the solar projects.
Market Landscape
This project follows a pattern set by federal renewable energy incentives, which help non-profit developers overcome the high capital costs of solar integration. It positions Mountain Housing Opportunities as a leader in sustainable property management among local non-profit housing organizations.
Residents living in these communities benefit from lower operating costs that support long-term rent stability and keep housing affordable. Tenants are not directly responsible for the installation or maintenance of the solar arrays.
The takeaway
Investment in renewable infrastructure provides non-profit organizations with a long-term hedge against rising energy costs. These projects demonstrate how philanthropic gifts can be leveraged to create sustainable benefits for housing security.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to improve housing stability through Philanthropy.
Live Poll
Do you believe solar installations in affordable housing effectively lower energy costs for residents?
