A women’s drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility will save thousands of dollars each year on electricity thanks to a new donated solar energy system.
House of Hope, a live-in facility for women seeking drug and alcohol rehabilitation support, unveiled a state of the art solar system provided by a partnership between Australian Women in Solar Energy (AWISE), Renewable Energy Corporation (REC) and Enphase.
House of Hope expects to save about $1000 a month on running costs thanks to the system, which was installed by local company Vortex Electrical.
The facility, run by Geelong-based not-for-profit Foundation 61, is due to open in early 2024 and aims to accommodate up to eight women.
Foundation 61 founder and chief executive Rob Lytzki said House of Hope would be funded entirely by philanthropic and community support, making savings like those provided by the solar system invaluable.
“The gift of solar energy could mean the difference between the centre self-sustaining or struggling to a standstill,” Mr Lytzki said.
“Savings from the new solar system will enable us to meet the costs of almost a quarter of our paid support staffing requirements. For us, this gift is an operational lifeline that makes House of Hope viable.
“We are very appreciative of REC, Enphase, Vortex Electrical and AWISE for their generous solar gift as it will help us concentrate on giving women who have had it tough a chance to rebuild their lives and get back into society.”
Geelong resident and AWISE founding member Sophie Wright said the reduction in energy bills would help House of Hope focus its efforts on its important programs.
“I was completely blown away by the backstory of House of Hope and Foundation 61 in Geelong,” Ms Wright said.
“They have previously founded a men’s rehabilitation centre in Geelong and now want to do the same for women.
“AWISE is passionate about supporting women, so donating a solar system for House of Hope and coordinating its installation through my work with Vortex Electrical is a way that we can really help this project.”
