The VFW facility in New Orleans marks a significant step forward in community resilience with its new solar power system, promising clean energy and reliable support during power outages.
On February 13, 2025, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) facility in New Orleans celebrated a pivotal moment with the unveiling of its new solar power and battery storage system. This landmark achievement is set to redefine community resilience, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source during frequent power outages.
New Orleans, known for its high power outage rates due to aging infrastructure and extreme weather conditions, can now look towards a future of cleaner and more dependable energy. The introduction of the solar power system at the VFW ensures that the facility remains a vital support center for veterans and the community, even in the face of power disruptions.
The success of this project is a testament to the power of collaboration, showcasing how collective efforts can lead to groundbreaking advancements in sustainable energy solutions. PosiGen, Solar Alternatives, and Empowered by Light, three leaders in the renewable energy sector, joined forces to bring this innovative solution to life. Each organization brought its unique expertise and resources to the table, creating a synergy that was crucial in overcoming the challenges associated with implementing such a complex system. Their combined efforts have culminated in a system that not only harnesses solar power but also includes an impressive 18 kilowatt-hours of battery storage. The battery storage can last between 15 to 17 years. This advanced setup effectively eliminates the need for hazardous and expensive diesel generators, which have long been a staple in emergency power solutions. By replacing these outdated generators, the project not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances safety and reliability, setting a new standard for energy resilience in community facilities.
This partnership not only highlights the importance of teamwork in achieving sustainable goals but also sets a precedent for future projects aimed at enhancing community resilience through clean energy solutions.
The implementation of the solar power system at the VFW facility underscores the critical role of clean energy in disaster preparedness, highlighting its importance in ensuring safety and reliability during emergencies. In the past, during catastrophic events like Hurricane Ida, the community's dependence on diesel generators not only proved to be a temporary and costly solution but also posed significant health risks. These generators emitted harmful fumes, leading to dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning incidents that threatened the well-being of those seeking refuge.
The introduction of the new solar and battery storage system marks a transformative shift towards a safer, more reliable alternative. This advanced system not only provides a consistent and uninterrupted power supply but also eliminates the health hazards associated with traditional generators. By harnessing the power of the sun, the VFW facility can now offer a secure and environmentally friendly haven for veterans and community members during power outages, ensuring that they remain protected and supported in times of crisis. This initiative not only addresses immediate energy needs but also contributes to long-term environmental sustainability, setting a precedent for future disaster preparedness strategies.
By providing a steady supply of clean energy, the VFW can continue to serve as a safe haven for veterans and community members during power outages. This initiative not only addresses immediate energy needs but also contributes to long-term environmental sustainability.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was not only a celebration of the new solar power system but also a significant occasion to honor and acknowledge the dedicated leaders who have tirelessly championed the cause of renewable energy and the enhancement of community resilience. The ceremony provided a platform to publicly commend these leaders for their visionary contributions and unwavering commitment to fostering a more resilient and sustainable future for all. We heard from a variety of people such as Tom Neyhart, Found and Executive Chairman at PosiGen, Moria Hanes, Executive Director at Empowered by Light, Jeffery Cantin, President and Founder at Solar Alternatives, Senator Royce Duplessis at the Louisiana Senate District 5, Mae Chapman, Campus Navigator and LaVetCorps at Delgado Community College, and Glynn Woodall, Director of Operations at PosiGen.
Tom Neyhart presented an award to Congressman Troy Carter, which was accepted by a representative of Troy Carter's staff on his behalf, for his significant contributions. "Congressman Troy Carter has made history as the first Congressman from New Orleans Westbank to serve on the Congressional Energy and Commerce Committee, which is the oldest and most powerful committee in Congress," Neyhart stated. The award acknowledged Carter's unwavering commitment to transforming the community through renewable energy advocacy.
The successful implementation of the solar power system at the VFW opens the door to exciting future prospects. PosiGen, Solar Alternatives, and Empowered by Light plan to expand similar projects to additional community centers, furthering the reach and impact of clean energy solutions.
Their goals include increasing battery storage and solar power installations, advocating for supportive clean energy policies, and enhancing education and outreach on the benefits of solar energy. These efforts aim to create a network of solar-powered resilience hubs, ensuring that underserved communities across Louisiana and beyond can access reliable and sustainable energy during times of crisis.