DC Green Bank and the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU) joined the Howard Theatre Development Group today to celebrate new solar energy and HVAC systems that will save the historic theater nearly $2 million over their lifetimes. These upgrades were financed by a $775,000 loan from DC Green Bank and more than $35,000 in incentives from the DCSEU.
The highly efficient HVAC system will cut heating and cooling energy use by an estimated 40 percent and the solar and battery system will cut utility costs by an estimated $21,000 per year.
DC Green Bank provided loan readiness support and technical assistance through its Community Impact Initiative, which provides low-interest loans to community-serving organizations. The DCSEU also provided engineering reviews and support to make the project possible.
Uprise Solar, a District Certified Business Enterprise, installed the solar and battery system. Based in Ward 6, Uprise has grown from a single employee in 2021 to 30 employees today, with the support of incentives for homeowners to install solar energy provided by the DCSEU and investments from DC Green Bank.
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 were also supported by a $700,500 African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service, through the DC Preservation League.
“The Howard Theatre’s solar, battery storage, and chiller installation directly aligns with the Mayor’s goals,” said Richard Jackson, Director of the DC Department of Energy and Environment. “This project is a model of sustainable preservation, paired with cultural heritage in climate leadership. These are the type of projects the District government wants to support so our city can ensure a reliable grid for future generations to come.”
“This project shows the power of partnership to benefit the community and grow small businesses,” said Brandi Colander, Interim CEO of DC Green Bank. “The Howard Theatre has long been a leader in DC’s culture and is now leading the community into an energy-efficient and resilient future.”
“The Howard Theatre stands as a significant cultural landmark in our city, and we are proud to support enhancements that will maintain its legacy while improving its energy efficiency and sustainability,” said Ben Burdick, Managing Director of the DCSEU. “DC Green Bank’s financing combined with DCSEU incentives exemplify the positive outcomes of collaboration among local government, contractors, and programs that promote clean energy and the conservation of a historic site within the District.”
“DC Green Bank and the DCSEU provided more than funding, their teams provided support and guidance from our first conversation to the end of construction,” said Roy “Chip” Ellis, owner of The Howard Theatre. “These new systems will help The Howard Theatre stay open for a new generation and continue to serve as a cornerstone of the DC community.”
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