SolarCHILL Project
The SolarCHILL Project is a community-driven climate resilience initiative designed to protect vulnerable households in Lake County from the growing impacts of extreme heat. The project is led by BUILD, a workforce development program of North Coast Opportunities, in partnership with the Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians and Jonas Energy Solutions.
Through the installation of solar-powered, battery-backed heating and cooling systems, the project ensures that low-income, elderly, and medically at-risk residents can remain safe and comfortable—even during power outages.
In parallel, the program delivers hands-on workforce training, preparing local participants for careers in the clean energy industry while strengthening the region’s capacity to respond to climate challenges.
By combining direct household support, workforce development, and community education, the project builds long-term resilience and promotes sustainable, equitable solutions to extreme heat.
APPLY FOR FREE INSTALLATION
Stay Safe and Comfortable During Extreme Heat
Through our SolarCHILL program, eligible households in Lake County can receive a solar-powered, battery-backed heating and cooling system installed directly in their home at no cost. These systems are designed to keep your home comfortable during extreme heat and continue operating even during power outages—helping you and your family stay safe when it matters most.
This program prioritizes low-income, heat-vulnerable residents, including seniors, individuals with health conditions, and households without reliable access to cooling. Selected participants will receive a full system installation, along with guidance on how to use and maintain it.
By applying, you are not only improving your home’s safety and comfort—you are also participating in a community-driven effort to build long-term climate resilience and reduce energy costs.
Who Should Apply
You may be eligible if you:
- Live in Lake County
- Are part of a low-income household
- Are vulnerable to extreme heat (e.g., seniors, medical conditions, lack of cooling)
- Own or have permission to install equipment at your residence
What You’ll Receive
- Solar-powered mini-split heating and cooling system
- Battery backup for operation during outages
- Professional installation at your home
- System orientation and support
How It Works
- Submit an application
- Complete a brief eligibility and heat-risk assessment
- If selected, your home will be scheduled for installation
- Receive your system and orientation
Why This Program Matters
Many homes in Lake County lack adequate cooling, putting residents at risk during extreme heat events. This program addresses that gap by delivering reliable, clean-energy cooling solutions directly to those who need them most, improving health, safety, and overall quality of life.
To see if your household qualifies, CLICK HERE TO APPLY TODAY
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
Build a career while making a real impact in your community. BUILD’s Solar & HVAC advanced training track offers hands-on experience in solar installation, battery storage, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Participants work directly alongside licensed contractors on real job sites, gaining practical skills that are in high demand across California’s growing clean energy sector. Over the course of 6 months, you’ll earn $20 per hour, develop industry experience, and contribute to projects that help protect local households from extreme heat and power outages.
This program is part of a state-supported climate resilience initiative focused on both workforce development and community impact. Trainees play an active role in installing solar-powered, battery-backed heating and cooling systems in the homes of low-income and heat-vulnerable residents—helping families stay safe, reduce energy costs, and maintain comfort during extreme weather events. At the same time, participants gain valuable technical experience that prepares them for long-term employment in the trades and clean energy industries.
Whether you are starting a new career, looking to build hands-on skills, or interested in entering the construction or clean energy field, this program provides a structured pathway to learn, earn, and grow. Participants receive mentorship, on-the-job training, and exposure to real-world projects that translate directly into job opportunities.
If you are ready to gain skills, earn income, and be part of work that strengthens your community, apply and take the first step toward a career in clean energy.
The next Solar-HVAC positions open October 2026
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