Batteries Included

The Free Clinic has installed a battery that stores solar energy both for everyday use and in the event of an extended outage. Crisis response organization Direct Relief gifted the battery and installation — to the tune of $250,000 — just as it has done for clinics around the world to ensure reliable healthcare services can continue to be provided during a crisis.

This complements the 135 solar panels installed on the roof in 2024 and funded through a $165,000 grant from Direct Relief. That project has allowed the Free Clinic to cover nearly 100% of the its electricity needs and officially be net zero for carbon emissions. The Free Clinic project was the first Power for Health Initiative project completed at a free or charitable clinic in the mainland United States.

Executive Director Fred Bauermeister is excited. "When combined, the solar and battery projects not only strengthen our resilience against power outages – an ever more common occurrence in our area – but it also aligns with our commitment to protecting the health of our environment.”