Island Housing Trust’s solar array makes 20 affordable rental homes zero-net energy possible, thanks to MassDEP’s Gap Energy Grant and Vineyard Power’s Resiliency & Affordability Grant

Island Housing Trust (IHT) proudly announces the successful installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Kuehn’s Way, a neighborhood of 20 permanently affordable year-round rental homes in Tisbury. This milestone makes it possible for all of the neighborhood’s homes to reach zero-net energy usage, significantly reducing environmental impact and energy costs for its 60 income-qualified residents.

The new solar array consists of 321 panels totaling 131.61 kW, installed across five duplexes. These panels will offset 136,351 kWh annually, extend the life of the roofs, and ease demand on the Island’s electrical grid.

This achievement was made possible through a combination of funding sources, including the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s (MassDEP) Gap Energy Grant Program and Vineyard Power’s Resiliency & Affordability Grant. The Gap III Energy Grant awarded $200,000 toward the total cost of $608,096, supplemented by IRS reimbursement, Island Housing Trust contributions, and a $40,000 grant from Vineyard Power.

The Massachusetts Gap Energy Grant Program helps bridge funding gaps for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at affordable housing neighborhoods and other critical infrastructure. Managed by the Clean Energy Results Program, the initiative supports projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and promote sustainability across the Commonwealth. The Gap III Energy Grant awarded a total of $8.1 million towards energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Vineyard Power’s $40,000 grant reflects its commitment to supporting low-income solar development across Martha’s Vineyard. Their grant ensures that a majority of the required electricity will be generated on-site, cutting carbon emissions and supporting IHT’s mission to integrate sustainability with affordability. Vineyard Power’s support aligns with the Massachusetts SMART Program, which incentivizes solar projects serving low-income households.

“By partnering with MassDEP and Vineyard Power, we’ve ensured that families at Kuehn’s Way can enjoy lower energy costs while contributing to a cleaner, more resilient future for Martha’s Vineyard,” said Philippe Jordi, CEO of Island Housing Trust. “This achievement reflects our mission to combine affordability with sustainability. At IHT we prioritize conservation-based building practices, integrating land conservation, resource stewardship, and net-zero building practices while meeting community housing needs.”

Island Housing Trust is a nonprofit, state-certified Community Development Corporation, using the Community Land Trust model to create and manage permanently affordable rental and ownership homes for year-round residents of Martha’s Vineyard. Through its Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac–approved ground lease, IHT retains ownership of the land while leasing it to residents, ensuring affordability across generations. This structure lowers housing costs, prevents speculative resale, and protects the Island’s character by supporting the long-term stability of its year-round community.

Since its inception 20 years ago, IHT has created 162 permanently affordable year-round homes for Island residents. They are creating 140 additional affordable homes (124 rental and 18 ownership) across Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Tisbury and West Tisbury, to serve over 350 additional Island residents.