A Brighter Future With Solar Power

It’s official: Brother’s Brother Foundation is powered by the sun. 

After a 20-month long process to convert to a sustainable form energy, BBF “Flipped the Switch” in September and converted to solar energy. Connected Energy Group, a Pittsburgh company, installed solar panels on the roof of BBF’s warehouse that are expected to offset 92% of energy needs and save $20,000 in fuel costs each year. BBF will also receive a rebate from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for installing six electric vehicle chargers for public use.  

  The project came to fruition through a nearly $179,000 grant from Green Mountain Energy, a renewable energy retailer that also funds nonprofits’ sustainable efforts through its Sun Club program.  

The ceremony to celebrate BBF’s switch to solar was attended by representatives from Sun Club, BBF board members, and other distinguished guests, including State Representative Aerion Abney of District 19.

Representative Abney said BBF’s switch to solar is part of a “new era in Pittsburgh” in which old warehouses and steel mills are being repurposed.  

“When I think about the legacy we’re trying to leave for our next generation, it makes me feel confident as a father of two kids that the environment and the sustainability of our environment are going to be in a positive situation 10, 20 and 30 years down the line because of the decision that we’re making here today,” Abney said.   

BBF President Ozzy Samad hopes the newly installed solar panels and electric vehicle chargers are just the beginning of future sustainability efforts at BBF.  

“This has only just begun. We hope to convert our truck to electric energy and install electric chargers in our second building down the street.” Samad said.   everyone on earth.