OLEAN — Olean Food Pantry has announced an ambitious new solar energy project designed to reroute electricity savings into food distribution.

When fully funded, the solar array atop OFP’s Leo Moss Drive facility would save a projected $186,000 in utility expenses over 25 years, officials said. Since 2020, the food pantry has seen the volume of clients more than double, prompting leaders to seek new revenue streams to serve food-insecure residents of Cattaraugus, Allegany and Chautauqua counties.

“The opportunity to channel savings into food purchases to help more people is one we can’t pass up,” said David Potter, Olean Food Pantry board president. “Community need continues to rise, while it seems funding and support is getting harder to come by. Not only must we invest in innovation, but as a forward-looking organization we also have a responsibility to the environment.

“This proposed project accomplishes both.”

Olean Food Pantry seeks community support and donations to supplement installation costs. Tax-deductible donations can be made securely at www.oleanfoodpantry.org/donate.

The project includes replacing the pantry’s aging roof and installing a 41.54 kW solar panel system. The total cost of the project is $141,115, including $93,115 for solar equipment and installation by Solar Liberty of Buffalo and $48,000 for the roof renovation by General Roofing & Heating Co., Inc., of Wellsville.

The roof, over 30 years old, must be replaced with high-efficiency, architectural-grade shingles for long-term durability and to securely hold the solar array, said OFP board member Rich Esposito.

“Every dollar we save on utilities is a dollar we can spend on food, ” added Esposito, the solar project’s manager.

“This system would dramatically reduce our energy costs and allow us to keep our shelves stocked to serve families, friends and neighbors in need.”

Olean Food Pantry served 27,170 individuals in 2024, a dramatic increase since before the Covid-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, the pantry estimates it will absorb an 8.5 percent net reduction in food funding from its largest supplier, FeedMore WNY, due to Trump administration cutbacks.

The environmental impact is equally significant, Esposito said. A quote for the proposed solar energy system estimates it would offset more than 1.7 million pounds of carbon emissions – the equivalent of growing 20,000 trees or offsetting nearly 2 million miles of vehicle emissions.

“Solar energy isn’t just about going green. It’s about helping Olean Food Pantry to adapt the mission in a time of economic uncertainty,” Esposito said.

“We’re doing everything we can to build sustainability and protect our ability to help good people experiencing hunger. These aren’t luxuries. They’re strategic investments to ensure we’re still here — serving and strong — as long as there are people to help.”

OFP officials have already applied for major grant funding from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and Renew America. Smaller financial contributions will help to bridge funding gaps, officials said.

“We believe this project can be a model for other food assistance organizations and other nonprofits like us everywhere,” Esposito said.

“It shows that even in small, rural communities, innovation and compassion can go hand in hand.”