Stitt Solar, the renewable energy division of Rogers-based The Stitt Group, recently completed two solar array projects in Fort Smith with the help of a $360,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, according to a news release.

The arrays were completed for nonprofits Elizabeth McGill Drop-in Center and Antioch for Youth & Family as part of the People Power – Energy Security & Ownership project.

The initiative, funded by the $360,000 Community Energy Innovation Prize and led by the Arkansas Climate League, supports low-income neighborhoods by cutting electricity bills and using the savings for programs such as utility bill assistance, weatherization kit distribution, community garden revitalization, and upgraded food storage and refrigeration.

The 79.18-kilowatt array for Antioch for Youth & Family comprises 223 panels and offsets 83% of its energy use. Its utility bill fell from $834.44 to $348.28. The array’s environmental impact equals eliminating 202,573 gallons of gasoline or not burning 1.98 million pounds of coal.

The 34.17-kilowatt array for Elizabeth McGill Drop-in Center offsets 128% of its energy use and is expected to save $115,806 over 25 years. Its utility bill fell from $676.17 to $55.54. The array’s environmental impact equals eliminating 77,705 gallons of gasoline or not burning 760,529 pounds of coal.

“These projects are a testament to how solar energy can help reduce energy costs and lessen dependence on rising utility prices,” Stitt Solar CEO David Stitt said. “While these installations were made possible through grant funding, the long-term savings and return on investment are real and attainable for nonprofits, homeowners, and commercial buildings alike. We’re currently working with four churches exploring the switch to solar, further demonstrating that clean energy is not only financially viable — it also creates a lasting, positive impact in our communities.”

Stitt Solar has 15 full-time and in-house employees.