New Solar Lighting System at Marble Hill Houses

On November 13, OSS Project (a non-profit organization) and NYCHA celebrated a new solar-powered lighting system at Marble Hill Houses in the Bronx. More than 100 people – including elected officials, NYCHA project partners, residents, youth groups, and other stakeholders – attended the free public event and reception at the community garden that features the solar-powered lighting.

The solar panel in the community garden harnesses solar energy and transforms it into electricity to light the garden during dark hours. The new lighting will enhance the garden and promote safety. In addition, the solar installation is an educational tool for youth groups, illustrating the benefits of renewable energy and sustainability. A local student completed renderings for the lighting system, and the solar panels were installed by Brooklyn SolarWorks. The initiative complements NYCHA’s larger sustainability goals to empower residents through community activation and workforce development.

The Marble Hill Houses community garden was established in 2016 by OSS Project (led by Jacki Fischer, founder of the Marble Hill Garden Project, and artist Juanli Carrión). It was designed as a place that would incorporate renewable energy and engage residents of the development.