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This Disaster Relief Nonprofit is Pioneering a Clean Energy Alternative to Noisy, Polluting Generators

Summary

Footprint Project, a New Orleans-based nonprofit, is using solar-powered microgrids to replace traditional gas and diesel generators in disaster relief, aiming to cut emissions and reduce dependency on fossil fuels in devastated areas. Following Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, the group deployed 50 solar-powered microgrids, providing clean energy to vital relief services, from water filtration systems to food trucks. The initiative not only alleviates air pollution and noise but also aims to create lasting change by encouraging the adoption of renewable infrastructure in relief efforts. Footprint envisions establishing a “solar lending library” to support ongoing and future disaster responses.

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