Austin, TX — 10/4/25 — Solar Austin, in partnership with a coalition of local and national businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations, is proud to announce the installation of a donated solar energy system at KOOP Radio, one of Austin’s most beloved community radio stations. This project exemplifies the power of collaboration in advancing local solar energy, supporting local institutions, and strengthening grid resilience.
The solar array will help KOOP lower its operating costs, reduce its carbon footprint, and continue delivering independent, community-driven radio for years to come. The installation also serves as a model for how diverse stakeholders can collaborate to bring solar energy to local institutions.
“KOOP has always been about community, and this solar donation demonstrates the incredible strength of Austin’s clean energy community,” said Federico Pacheco, KOOP Radio General Manager. “We’re thrilled to host this system and to be part of Austin’s clean energy future.”
“Enstall Empowers exists to make solar projects like KOOP Radio’s possible. Too often, underserved communities face the double burden of poor air quality and high electricity costs. Our mission is to help reverse that trend—supporting KOOP as it serves its community and amplifies the message of clean, affordable local solar energy for decades to come,” said Vera Vos, Vice President, Empowers & Public Relations.
This project highlights Austin’s leadership in solar energy adoption, building on the city’s commitment to sustainability and demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships.
The project is made possible through generous contributions and coordinated efforts from the following stakeholders:
- Solar Austin – Project manager, fundraiser and community education partner
- The Meadows Foundation – Grantor
- Austin Energy – Solar Solutions Capacity Based Incentive program
- Lighthouse Solar – Installation partner and labor donor
- Enstall Empowers/IronRidge – Racking material donor
- John Hoffner – Engineering services donor
- Imperial Star – Solar panel donor
- American Youth Works – Labor contributor and equipment funds grantor
- HEB – Grantor and food donor
- KOOP Radio – Solar installation recipient
Questions?
David Levesque
Solar Austin
518-320-2613
info@solaraustin.org