MORRISVILLE, N.C. — SOLARHOT, a manufacturer of renewable energy products here, donated a solar energy system to the Chatham Habitat for Humanity, for one of its recently constructed homes located in Pittsboro, N.C.

“Chatham Habitat for Humanity was interested in offering a very energy-efficient home,” said Dan Gretsch, vice president of engineering of SOLARHOT, regarding their donation. “Both SOLARHOT and the installer, Solar Consultants, have done volunteer work with Chatham Habitat for Humanity in the past and working together on this project seemed a natural fit.”

The solar equipment donated by SOLARHOT, included a SolVelox module mounted on an 80-gal. electric water heater, a 10-gal. stainless steel drainback reservoir, four 4’ x 8’ silver collectors, mounting hardware and connection fittings. This equipment was primarily installed by Solar Consultants, a solar energy installation company based in Carrboro, N.C.

“This system was installed for both hot water as well as space heat for the home,” explained Gretsch. “The homeowner was really excited about the prospect of getting a solar home.”

“There's nothing like having hot water at your disposal,” said homeowner, Tracy Lynn. “It feels great not being utility dependent.”

Chatham Habitat for Humanity was established in 1989 as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International.