(Washington, D.C.) – DC Green Bank and the Howard Theatre Development Group today announced $775,000 in financing for solar power and energy-efficient upgrades to the historic Howard Theatre in Ward 1. The loan will fund the installation of a solar power system and an energy-efficient HVAC system.
The Howard Theatre is the oldest theater built for African American entertainment in U.S. history and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The upgrades will also be supported by a $675,000 African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service, through the DC Preservation League. This grant program supports projects that preserve historic places in the African American struggle for civil rights.
The new HVAC system will provide a needed upgrade to the system installed during the theater’s 2012 renovation and cut heating and cooling energy use by an estimated 40 percent. The HVAC and solar systems combined will save the theater an estimated $1.5 million in utility costs over the life of the systems.
“We’re proud to support a historic DC institution by helping The Howard Theatre make critical upgrades that will allow it to continue to serve the community as a center of culture and entertainment,” said Trisha Miller, CEO of DC Green Bank. “The Howard Theatre has long been a cultural beacon and will now be a leader in clean energy and sustainability in DC.”
“DC Green Bank has been a partner every step of the way in making sure we get the financing we need to make these important upgrades,” said Roy “Chip” Ellis, owner of The Howard Theatre. “We’re grateful for the support of DC Green Bank, the National Park Service, and the DC Preservation League in helping us invest in the future of the Howard Theatre so it continues to be an important part of the culture and nightlife of the District.”
The new HVAC and solar energy systems are expected to be operational in 2025.
Howard Theatre Press Release 10.30.24