Overview:
The University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) has launched a four-year program in partnership with 13 nonprofits across Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park to implement energy efficiency upgrades. Dubbed the UDM Sustaining Service Organization initiative, the program also includes a workforce training component coordinated by Focus: HOPE.
Program Details:
UDM students and faculty will conduct energy audits and modeling for participating nonprofits, focusing on upgrades like HVAC systems, insulation, windows, air sealing, and lighting. Meanwhile, Focus: HOPE will recruit and train at least 10 individuals annually through a five-week pre-construction program, preparing them for employment with contractors working on the upgrades.
Goals:
The initiative aims to lower utility costs for nonprofits, enabling them to reinvest savings into their missions while creating new job opportunities in energy efficiency for Detroit residents.
Participants:
The program involves UDM’s College of Engineering & Science, School of Architecture & Community Development (SACD), Detroit Collaborative Design Center, and Focus: HOPE. Benefiting nonprofits include Brilliant Detroit, Detroit PAL, EcoWorks, Goodwill Industries, and others.
Funding:
The $4.8 million initiative is supported by a $3.79-million grant from the Department of Energy’s Office of State and Community Energy Programs (SCEP) and a $1.01-million match.
Quote:
Portia Roberson, CEO of Focus: HOPE, remarked, “We’re excited to work on reducing our carbon footprint and promoting energy-efficient practices, benefiting our organization and the community.”
