Cumming Family Moves into First Solar Habitat Home

of Cumming, recently moved into the first solar Habitat for Humanity home in the state.

During a recent dedication ceremony, the Lingos were given the keys to the Energy-Star-rated home by Siemens and .

A 'First Nail Ceremony' was held on Jan. 21 on the home site located at 5050 Union Hill Road in south Forsyth County and for the next 14 weeks the Lingos worked side-by-side with Siemens employee volunteers and Habitat construction crew leaders.

The solar home’s Union Hill Road address is appropriate “because it symbolizes the union and partnership between the Lingos, Siemens, all the volunteers, and Habitat for Humanity,” according to Russ Hayes, CEO, Habitat for Humanity, North Central Georgia.

“We believe this home will be a shining example of Siemens technology and dedication to the community and the Habitat mission," said Hayes.

The project became a reality for HFH-NCG and the Lingos – the company contributed $100,000 and provided employee volunteer labor.

What makes the house unique is the Siemens Microinverter System that will convert the sun’s power into safe, affordable electric power saving the Lingos hundreds of dollars annually on electric utility bills.

“We are pleased that integration of our solar microinverter technology is a vital component of Habitat’s mission to provide ongoing affordable housing and sustainable building practices for deserving families in the north Georgia area," said Steve Clark, vice president of Siemens Industry, Inc., Customer Services Division in a news release.

How it Works:

The Siemens Microinverter System will take the power from each individual solar module mounted on the Lingo’s roof and immediately convert the DC power to AC 120-240 volts, then send it down a circuit to the Siemens electrical panel ─ for seamless combination with the utility power on the user side of the utility meter. Panels donated by North Coast Electric were installed by Radiance Solar on the south side of the roof where the sun is optimal in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Even when shading occurs on one module, the other modules function as standalone power to provide affordable, safe, clean power.

During daylight hours the system generates enough power to run internal appliances. Any excess electricity produced by the Siemens Microinverter System goes back to the grid and offsets the energy consumed at night. Ultimately, the solution along with energy efficient appliances, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, and lighting ensure the Lingo family will find relief from their utility bills as long as they own their home.