Aspire Ryde has joined a Prince inspired solar fundraising drive which has been launched today (Friday) on the anniversary of the super-star’s death.
In the days following Prince’s passing, details emerged of his wide ranging and secret philanthropy, including the thousands of dollars worth of solar panels he donated to communities in Oakland, California.
Inspired by his actions, climate charity 10:10 are launching a £50,000 crowdfunder to provide solar panels for groups in 6 locations across the country who are working on other issues Prince supported.
Aspire Ryde in Dover Street offers local people music, arts and community facilities. By going solar, they will have the chance to engage local people with climate action and, crucially, lower their energy bills. Having acquired the building in 2014 the project will help them run more sustainably, and reinvest the money into their work.
Neil Jones, project manager at 10:10 Climate Action said:
“Prince’s legacy was way more than just the music. With his support for clean energy, he helped underline a really key point – solar power is for everyone.
“By helping Aspire Ryde go solar, we can help an amazing group ramp up their work in tackling climate change. Importantly, we’ll also give them more energy independence, so they can reduce their bills and spend more of their funds on the great work they do.
Heath Monaghan project leader of Aspire Ryde said:
“We were delighted to get involved it is such an appropriate way to generate power on our roof as we are generating community spirit below, within the building.
“This project will mean not only are we becoming more sustainable and responsible with scarce resources but that we can plough the income saved back into developing our community. It will highlight the important work we we are doing here on the Isle of Wight developing much needed community spaces & services”.
