In recent years, it seems as though unexpected storms and other natural disasters have become a more serious threat than ever to both people and businesses. Luckily, many public officials are starting to understand the importance of prioritizing energy resiliency. The Kashmere Gardens neighborhood in Houston, Texas, is one such example, and it’s where the city’s recent resiliency project has become a beacon of light for others to follow.

The Kashmere Gardens Multi-Service Center, which provides critical care for seniors, those with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations within the community, has finally achieved a long-awaited goal. Within a year, the center will have a permanent generator to provide backup power in the case of an extreme weather event.

Storms Have an Outsized Effect on Kashmere Gardens Residents

Houston is no stranger to the damage — and power outages — that can occur due to natural weather events. Having experienced everything from hurricanes and flooding to unexpected windstorms, the city is no stranger to the need for backup power. 

During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, 44% of Kashmere Gardens residents had their homes flooded. After Hurricane Beryl in 2024, they didn’t regain power for weeks. Council members recall how city residents and businesses have struggled in these times and hope that this new solution will become a model for how Kashmere Gardens and other neighborhoods deal with the need for backup power.

The Cost and Benefits of Backup Power

Kashmere Gardens has a 20% lower life expectancy than surrounding communities. Given this statistic, officials realize that subjecting residents to power outages and temperature fluctuations just isn’t acceptable. 

Many residents have complained that storms have forced them to travel a long way outside their community. There are no local sources of food, shelter, or places to charge their electronics so they can communicate with loved ones. Still, installing the new generator is about so much more than just providing this comfort. In some cases, especially for the elderly or disabled, it may be about saving lives. 

The total cost is $899,000, much of which will be covered by energy giant Shell. Kashmere Gardens and the City of Houston are partnering with Enchanted Rock to provide the center’s new generator. 

After hearing heartfelt pleas and commentary from community members, many of whom sent statements in their absence, council members acted quickly. They worked together to approve this agenda item and get the project moving in the right direction.

A New Solution Is Bringing Much Needed Relief

It’s essential to recognize that the new generator won’t be operable for a year. In the meantime, the city will have to create workarounds to ensure that all community members have a safe place to go during and after storms. City officials have pledged to develop concrete plans to provide essential services during those times.

Still, the resilience hub will be a welcomed solution once it is up and running. Residents and city officials alike are looking forward to reaping the benefits and gaining peace of mind from knowing that the area’s most vulnerable will be taken care of no matter what comes their way.

To learn more, read the original article by Tannistha Sinha.