To most passersby, the vacant Ramada Inn in Portland’s Rose Quarter district was an unused, inefficient space. But where most saw an eyesore, Central City Concern saw an opportunity for sustainable, low-income housing.

Madrona Studios, which is located in Portland Rose Quarter renewal district, boasts high-efficiency heating and cooling, programmable thermostats, increased insulation, ENERGY STAR windows, energy-efficient lighting and solar hot water. Collectively these features are trimming annual energy costs by an estimated $42,000.

“Such a reduction in energy consumption enables us to keep housing costs low so we can increase the amount of supportive services we provide,” said Sean Hubert, director of housing, Central City Concern— a nonprofit that provides affordable housing, health and recovery services to homeless individuals.

Energy Trust cash incentives of over $37,500 helped offset the added cost of building energy efficiency and renewable energy into the renovation.