Sol-Ark Powers Portland, Oregon's Dignity Village with Clean Solar Energy

Sol-Ark, a U.S.-based manufacturer of hybrid inverters and energy storage solutions, has partnered with Twende Solar and K2 Systems to electrify Dignity Village-a self-governed transitional housing community in Portland, Oregon-marking a milestone in sustainable housing for underserved populations.

The 60kW solar array, powered by Sol-Ark inverters, now delivers clean electricity across 31 rooftops-lighting 43 homes and a central Commons building. For the first time in its 20-year history, Dignity Village can rely on consistent energy for lighting, heating, cooling, and charging.

A Grassroots Transformation

More than 80 volunteers and 20 residents contributed over 800 hours to install 200 panels and wire every home for modern energy use, including smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The project replaces propane heating with safer, cleaner systems. It is expected to save the community at least $3,000 annually-funds that will now support vital services.

Founded in 2000, Dignity Village is the nation's longest-standing sanctioned tiny home community for individuals transitioning out of homelessness. With residents covering expenses through firewood sales, metal recycling, and pooled utilities, rising electricity costs had become unsustainable-until now.

Partnership With Purpose

The project was led by Twende Solar, with rooftop racking donated by K2 Systems and battery storage provided by Rolls Battery Engineering. Funding was supported by the Portland Clean Energy Fund in collaboration with Verde Builds.

Why Sol-Ark Stepped In

"At Sol-Ark, we don't just engineer power systems-we invest in people," said Tom Brennan, CTO of Sol-Ark. "Dignity Village shows what's possible when infrastructure and dignity go hand in hand."

This project reflects Sol-Ark's Sol-Ark Cares initiative, which supports energy equity through community-led solar projects.

Sol-Ark | www.sol-ark.com

Twende Solar | www.twendesolar.org