This just crossed my desk this morning. Way to go, Siemens. Good corporate citizenship at work.
Siemens Commits to Build First Solar Habitat for Humanity Home in Georgia
Energy savings provided by Siemens technology will offset family’s electric bill
ATLANTA—Siemens today announced a $100,000 partnership with Habitat for Humanity to build the organization’s first solar home in Georgia. Volunteers will work side-by-side with future homeowner Melonie Lingo and her teenage children, Luke and Madie, starting at the first-nail ceremony on January 21, 2012.
Vast expertise in both electrical and solar systems uniquely positions Siemens to assist Habitat for Humanity-North Central Georgia (HFH-NCG) with solar panel technology and infrastructure that will reduce the Lingo family’s future electric costs. Located at Union Hill in Cumming, the home will receive a Siemens Microinverter system that will convert the sun's power into safe, affordable electric power.
"Our Microinverter system will create enough energy to offset most, if not all, of the family's lifetime of electric utility bills," says Barry Contrael, director, Siemens Low Voltage business unit. "This technology will potentially save the family hundreds of dollars per year."
HFH-NCG's integration of Siemens' technology is a vital component of Habitat's mission to provide ongoing affordable housing and sustainable building practices for deserving families in the north Georgia area. Siemens will provide employee volunteer labor for the 2012 solar home, along with full sponsorship of the build and the solar panel technology.
"The Union Hill address is appropriate because it symbolizes the union and partnership between the Lingos, Siemens, all the volunteers and HFH-NCG," says Russ Hayes, CEO, Habitat for Humanity, North Central Georgia. "We believe this home will be a shining example of Siemens' technology and dedication to the community and the HFH mission."
The house is scheduled to be completed and dedicated to the Lingo family on April 21, 2012.
