The East LA Community Corporation (ELACC) has announced a groundbreaking step toward improving housing sustainability and public health in Boyle Heights by transitioning its housing portfolio to an all-electric energy system. This move is aimed at reducing carbon emissions while addressing significant public health concerns in the area.
“At ELACC, we believe that affordable housing must also be sustainable housing. By integrating sustainability into our development strategy, we are not only preserving homes for low-income families, but also creating healthier, more equitable communities,” said Monica Mejia, President and CEO of ELACC.
As gentrification displaces low-income families, ELACC works to combat these negative impacts through community building, asset development, and financial empowerment. To enhance these efforts, ELACC is implementing a decarbonization plan across its 24-property portfolio, impacting 482 units and 2,500 tenants. Initial projects at Lorena Terrace Apartments (built in 2003) and Vallejo Apartments (built in 1920) will affect 300 tenants, with $2.5 million allocated for improvements and $500,000 for solar upgrades across the portfolio.
Key upgrades include:
- Installing Energy Star-rated heat pump HVAC systems, including for units without air conditioning
- Replacing gas appliances with induction cooktops and electric ovens
- Installing energy-efficient windows and solar panels with battery storage
- Enhancing electrical systems to support new appliances
These upgrades are part of the Retrofit.LA cohort, a city initiative aimed at achieving 100% clean energy by 2035. ELACC has partnered with Sustento Group, which is managing the program, to guide its projects and financing. Additionally, ELACC has secured a $3,000,000 revolving credit facility to fund these improvements.
The financing model links funds to incentives from key programs like LADWP’s Comprehensive Affordable Multifamily Retrofits (CAMR), California’s Low Income Weatherization Program (LIWP), and others. This innovative financing structure allows ELACC to implement retrofits without disrupting existing capital arrangements.
David Hodgins, CEO of Sustento Group, emphasized the model’s potential for scaling decarbonization in affordable housing. “This project helps nonprofits reduce carbon emissions, enhance financial stability, and advance equity—setting a precedent for the industry.”
In partnership with the Housing Partnership Network (HPN) and Inclusive Prosperity Capital (IPC), ELACC has developed a new green financing product, SURE (Sustainable Underwriting for Resilience and Efficiency), which is helping to fund these projects without impacting existing financing.
The improvements will provide numerous benefits, including reducing tenants’ annual utility costs by approximately $12,000 and improving indoor air quality, which has significant health benefits. ELACC is collaborating with UC Berkeley to survey tenants and assess the health and financial impacts of moving away from carbon-emitting technologies.
The upgrades are aligned with Los Angeles’ goal of 100% clean energy by 2035 and aim to enhance resilience against the climate crisis while addressing chronic health issues exacerbated by pollution in Boyle Heights.
“We are committed to making our neighborhoods more resilient and sustainable for the future,” said Adalia Rodriguez, Chief Operating Officer for ELACC.
