The American Red Cross’ Hawaii Chapter announced Tuesday it is expected to save half a million dollars in energy costs over the next two decades through its new photovoltaic (PV) system. Designed and installed by RevoluSun, the 62-kW system is now live and generating 45 percent of the non-profit’s energy through clean, renewable sunshine. At a time when most non-profits are turning to Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to finance solar systems, the Hawaii Red Cross was able to raise enough money through foundation grants and corporate donations to match a federal stimulus grant, covering the entire $309,000 system cost.

“Instead of locking in a lower rate for energy costs through a PPA, we wanted to completely own the system and eliminate as much of our power cost as possible,” said Coralie Chun Matayoshi, CEO of the American Red Cross, Hawaii State Chapter. “Now we can use the money that would have paid for electricity, to go toward our mission of saving lives and giving hope to those in need.”

The Hawaii Red Cross also recently purchased a new generator for use during emergencies and renovated its headquarter facilities. These capital improvements will help the non-profit continue to provide services to Hawaii residents during a disaster.

“Our new PV system not only makes it possible for us to use more of our funds to help our local people, but it is also good for Hawaii’s environment,” said Matayoshi. “We put this process out to bid and chose RevoluSun because of their professionalism and experience. We trusted that they would not only be able to design and install the system, but also be our partner over the coming years, and make the entire project as easy as possible."

RevoluSun designed and installed the solar system comprised of Sharp 240-watt modules in the period of eight weeks. This system will offset the destruction of 33 acres of forest per year and the burning of 2,473 barrels of oil per year.

“The American Red Cross is a smart example of how a local non-profit was able to secure federal money to purchase a solar system, creating clean energy and adding green collar jobs to Hawaii,” said Todd Georgopapadakos, RevoluSun Principal. “We’re proud to have partnered with such an important Hawaii non-profit, and commend them for making the decision to create renewable energy.”

The American Red Cross is a non-profit humanitarian organization which provides assistance to meet the immediate emergency needs of those affected by disasters. All Red Cross assistance to disaster victims is free. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it depends on public contributions to help others. Your gifts support the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross in your community, across the country and around the world.

RevoluSun is Hawaii’s largest solar provider, designing and installing nearly 500 photovoltaic projects in 2011 alone. Providing the highest quality of service, technology and design in renewable energy, RevoluSun is bringing cleaner, smarter energy to communities, one rooftop at a time. With its extensive network of alternative energy partners and detailed knowledge of federal and state tax incentives, RevoluSun makes renewable solar energy an affordable, attractive option for both homeowners and businesses.