2011 Small Business Winner
Pacific Crest Affordable Housing
Pacific Crest Affordable Housing develops housing for independent seniors that is both affordable and exceptionally environmentally-friendly, right here in Central Oregon.
What stood out for us:
Pacific Crest Affordable Housing has an effective business model that meets a real social need—affordable housing for seniors—with as little environmental impact as possible. Each of their projects has been more and more environmentally responsible. Building an ultra-green building in a rural and relatively low income community like La Pine is a rare event. Their energy and water conservation numbers for the Little Deschutes Lodge in La Pine are especially impressive. PCAH is clearly a leader and innovator in their field, setting a great example for others to follow.
Some specific examples from the Little Deschutes Lodge include:
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The building is heated and cooled with a “ground source heat pump” system, using the relatively stable ground temperature to heat and cool the building, reducing heating and cooling costs by approximately 2/3 and saving 275,000 kWh per year.
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The solar hot water system saves over 30,000 kWh per year and provides about 2/3 of all of the hot water needs of the building.
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The low flow toilets will save 135,000 gallons of water annually.
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Little Deschutes Lodge is plumbed and approved for gray water circulation. This is the first multifamily building in Oregon that can make this claim!A 24kW solar PV system produces about 17.5% of building’s annual electricity.
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Used only native plant materials in the landscaping and eliminated turf.
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Installed a community garden for residents.
