Apartments file photo

Self-Help Enterprises held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its newly developed “net zero,” affordable apartment community in Dinuba this week.

What that means is a combination of energy efficiencies in each of the 44 units at the Sierra Village apartments and solar panels allow the apartments to save and generate as much electricity or more than they would need if they got all their electricity from the electrical grid.

Sierra Village, at 1375 N. Crawford Ave., is a highly energy efficient and transit-friendly project, states a press release issued by Self-Help Enterprises, a Visalia-based nonprofit that works to develop, improve and preserve housing for low-income families in the San Joaquin Valley.

“The project’s solar panel system will offset the power used in the common area, residential loads and community center, making Sierra Village a grid-neutral, zero net energy project. This will result in reduced utility bills for residents and the property, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution,” the release continues.

In addition, Sierra Village will include sidewalks and pedestrian improvements, along with the building of bike lanes along East Davis Drive and North Crawford Avenue. Self-Help also is working with the California Vanpool Authority, which will transport residents from Sierra Village and the surrounding area to and from work, according to the release.

“Thanks to a Legislative vote to extend California’s Cap-and-Trade program to the year 2030, more developments like Sierra Village will receive vital funding from the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities program,” Ben Metcalf, director of the California Department of Housing and Community Development, said in the press release.

“Specifically, our funding will create greatly needed sidewalks and bike paths, so residents can safely walk and bike, drive less and reduce greenhouse gases in California.”

Sierra Village is being financed through a combination of funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s HOME program, the California Strategic Growth Councils’ Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities program and low-income housing tax credits.

“We believe strongly that a decent place to live is one of the basic building blocks for families and for the stability and success of children,” Tom Collishaw, president and CEO of, Self-Help Enterprises, said in a written statement. “Sierra Village brings a much-needed housing opportunity for working families who need and deserve affordable housing. We’re proud to be part of the Dinuba community.”