A New Leaf Inc., Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Phoenix and Hospice of the Valley are getting some of their electric needs directly from the sun thanks to donations of solar energy systems from Salt River Project customers.

The three nonprofits were chosen to receive solar energy systems by SRP EarthWise™ Energy customers who voted for their favorite charities. The solar energy systems, valued at about $63,000 each, enable the nonprofits to offset their electricity usage and save money on their monthly electric bills. The savings they will see will help them direct more funds to the communities they serve.

“Partnering with SRP to help our Clubs become more energy efficient really allows us to maximize every dollar for programs and services,” said Amy Gibbons, President & Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Phoenix of the system installed at the facility located at 7th Ave. and Southern.  “The solar energy systems from SRP is a great complement to our efforts to help kids build Earthwise, energy-smart habits that will follow them into adulthood and we’re thrilled to be chosen as a recipient of this wonderful program.”

In addition to saving money, the solar energy systems will result in a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. A typical 10-kilowatt solar electric system helps to avoid the release of almost 20,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions annually, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“During these times of economic recovery, the SRP EarthWise Energy solar system will save precious dollars, allowing A New Leaf to invest back into the East Valley Men’s Shelter and the men who call it home,” said Michael T. Hughes, A New Leaf CEO of the system installed at a facility in Mesa. “We extend our humble thanks for this generous gift.”

The solar donation benefitted the Lund Family Hospice Home in Gilbert, a facility of the Hospice of the Valley.

“The SRP photovoltaic system will provide our first opportunity to experience the benefits of solar power,” said Diana Murray, vice president of facilities and purchasing for Hospice of the Valley. “We are grateful for the support and generosity of SRP and EarthWise Energy customers.”

The remaining four finalists, Homeward Bound, Fit Kids Inc., Junior Achievement of Arizona and Mountain Health and Wellness each received a solar water heater for their facilities that will also help to offset electricity usage.

SRP EarthWise Energy is a voluntary program that SRP customers can participate in for as little as $3 per month, with 100 percent of the funds used to provide solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to Valley nonprofit organizations.  In addition to helping nonprofits save money, the program contributes to the growth of solar energy in the Valley and educates customers on the importance of renewable energy.

Since 2007, the voluntary fees paid by SRP EarthWise Energy customers have funded solar PV projects for community-based programs including Sunshine Acres Children’s Home, 18 Habitat for Humanity homes, Maryvale YMCA, the Phoenix Zoo, Rio Salado Audubon Center, Desert Botanical Garden, Arizona Recreation Center for the Handicapped, The Center for Habilitation, Sarah’s Place/Glencroft and Chandler-Gilbert Community College.

For more information about solar energy systems or to sign up for SRP EarthWise Energy, please visit www.srpnet.com/earthwise.