Solar Donation Fuels Maine Hunger Relief as Food Insecurity Soars
December 1, 2025
AUBURN & HAMPDEN, Maine – Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine today announced that longtime supporters Fritz and Susan Onion are officially donating the two solar arrays that have been powering the Food Bank’s Auburn and Hampden distribution centers since 2020. Designed and installed by ReVision Energy, the solar energy systems were originally financed by the Onions through a partnership model that allowed the Food Bank to benefit from the energy production of the array to reduce ongoing energy costs without upfront capital investment.
The Onions have now generously donated the PV arrays to the Food Bank. The donation will provide sustained operational savings and long-term access to affordable clean energy that helps to offset electricity costs for the state’s largest hunger-relief organization.
“We’re honored to support an organization that plays such a vital role in addressing food insecurity in Maine, and we hope the solar arrays deliver lasting financial and environmental benefits for Good Shepherd Food Bank,” shared Fritz and Susan Onion.
In nearly five years, the solar arrays have produced approximately 65% of the energy used at both facilities, resulting in nearly $200,000 in utility cost savings, allowing those savings to be redirected toward building food security for everyone in Maine. Since their installation, more than 3 million kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity have been produced, that is equivalent to powering nearly 3,000 homes for a year.
“This is an investment in the long-term strength of our mission,” said Heather Paquette, President of Good Shepherd Food Bank. “The Onions’ generosity, combined with ReVision Energy’s partnership, demonstrates what is possible when we align innovation, sustainability, and community care. This gift helps ensure we can continue providing nutritious food to our neighbors while reducing our environmental impact for years to come.”
This donation comes at a time when many Mainers continue to experience economic pressure and barriers to affordable food. By reducing operating expenses and cutting carbon emissions, the solar arrays support both immediate hunger relief and systems-level change.
“Building food security for everyone in Maine, ReVision Energy was honored to be a part of this solar energy installation. It represents everything we stand for as a company. Everyone should have access to affordable food and energy,” stated Forunat Mueller, CEO and Co-Founder of ReVision Energy.
Good Shepherd Food Bank will continue building partnerships that strengthen Maine communities for the long term. The solar arrays are a visible example of what is possible when donors, nonprofits, and local partners work together for stronger, more food-secure Maine.
About ReVision Energy
ReVision Energy is a 100% employee-owned solar company with offices in Brentwood and Enfield, New Hampshire; South Portland and Montville, Maine; and North Andover and Weseield, Massachusetts. With over 400 employee co-owners, 19,000 installations, and 20 years of experience, ReVision is New England’s leading full-service renewable energy contracting company. ReVision is a Certified B Corp and longtime member of Amicus Solar Cooperative with a mission to make life better by building our just and equitable electric future. Learn more at ReVisionEnergy.com.
About Good Shepherd Food Bank:
As the largest hunger-relief organization in Maine, Good Shepherd Food Bank supports Mainers facing hunger by sourcing nutritious, culturally relevant food and distributing it to more than 600 partner organizations across the state, including food pantries, meal sites, schools, health care centers, and senior programs. The Food Bank also supports the network of partners with capacity-building and innovation grants that improve and promote equitable and dignified access to nutritious food across the state. The Food Bank leads a statewide effort to combat the root causes of hunger by engaging in advocacy, nutrition education, and strategic partnerships.
Media Contacts:
Cameron Catalano
Kiterocket for ReVision Energy
ccatalano@kiterocket.com
Kiterocket.com
Heather Reynolds
Director, Marketing & Communications
973-865-5676
hreynolds@gsfb.org