DownCity Design

Providence, RI

DownCity Design is a nonprofit community studio in Providence, Rhode Island, empowering youth through free visual arts and design education that fosters social and environmental change. Operating from a newly renovated Community Studio in the West End, DCD engages youth ages 11–18 in hands-on projects that create public amenities and promote sustainable design. Its diverse staff and programs focus on equity and climate-conscious creativity to build resilient, inclusive communities.

Supported by FCI, DownCity Design will install a 24 kW rooftop solar array expected to generate about 26,796 kWh annually, supplying most of the studio’s electricity and eliminating energy costs. The system includes battery storage to ensure resilience and operates in harmony with the recently upgraded all-electric heating and cooling. An interactive display will translate this clean energy into a tangible learning experience, empowering students to engage deeply with sustainability principles and inspiring them to integrate environmental responsibility into their creative practice.

Milestones

• Install 24 kW rooftop solar photovoltaic system with battery backup

• Generate 26,796 kWh annually to offset 75 percent of electricity use

• Provide uninterrupted power for essential educational equipment

• Deploy real-time solar monitoring display for student learning

• Engage students with renewable energy principles in design programming

• Reinvest utility incentives into future HVAC and energy upgrades