Solar Through the Eyes of a Community Advocate

Life with Solar

Andrew Payton is a solar homeowner who speaks in support of the National Habitat for Humanity Solar Project. As a market-rate homeowner in Harrisonburg, VA, Andrew was able to fit a 9.6 kW system on his roof and generate 90-95 percent of his household energy use through solar. Because Habitat for Humanity homes tend to be smaller than market-rate homes, the typical Habitat rooftop solar array is smaller than the national average. The typical Habitat family with solar in Virginia has a 4.8 kW system and is generally able to offset 2/3 of their household consumption on average each month.

That level of production has changed how his household approaches energy use. Instead of being subject to fluctuating utility bills, his family relies on power they generate themselves, making solar a dependable part of daily life.

Reducing the Energy Burden

Andrew speaks to the reality many families face as electricity costs continue to rise. Before installing solar, monthly energy bills were a consistent source of financial stress. After going solar, those costs dropped significantly. He sees this same benefit extend to the many families reached by this national project, where lower electric bills can free up household income and reduce financial strain month after month.

Supporting First Time Homeowners

Through his involvement with GiveSolar and Habitat for Humanity projects, Andrew has seen how meaningful solar can be for first time homeowners. Many of these families are building stability without the safety net of generational wealth. By lowering utility expenses, solar helps families stay on track with mortgage payments, meet their basic needs, and focus on longer term goals, including education, home upkeep, and financial security.

Benefits Beyond One Household

Solar also benefits the broader community. When Andrew’s system produces more energy than his family needs, that power goes back to the grid and is used by nearby neighbors. This shared use supports a cleaner energy system, lower electricity rates, and ensures the impact of each installation extends beyond a single home.

A System for Community Impact

Having watched GiveSolar’s national initiative take flight, Andrew describes the organization’s approach as practical and collaborative. Donors, partner organizations, and homeowners all contribute to making these projects possible. For Andrew, solar is not a symbolic solution. It is a practical and proven way to reduce costs, support families, and strengthen communities through shared investment in clean energy.