Meadow Ridge Resident Shares Community’s Solar Success in National Climate Webinar

Meadow Ridge, a continuing care retirement community in Redding, Conn., is highlighting the leadership of one of its residents on a national stage. Susan Auslander, 92, participated in a climate crisis webinar hosted by the National Continuing Care Residents Association, (NaCCRA) a nonprofit organization that advocates for the rights, interests and quality of life of residents in continuing care retirement communities.

Auslander shared insights into Meadow Ridge’s large-scale solar initiative, which she championed. The installation, which began in 2023, includes more than 1300 solar panels and is projected to generate approximately 20 percent of the community’s daily energy needs, resulting in an estimated $5 million in savings over the next 25 years. The project includes solar-covered carports serving resident and associate parking areas, along with a newly constructed roof supporting rooftop panels.

Home to more than 400 residents across independent living, assisted living and memory care neighborhoods, as well as a 62-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, Meadow Ridge fosters a culture of engagement and resident-driven initiatives. Auslander's participation reflects the community’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation, as well as amplifying the perspectives and ideas of residents to help shape the community.

Held on March 18 and streamed on YouTube, the national webinar brought together residents from across the country to discuss environmental stewardship within Life Plan Communities. Auslander joined fellow panelists from Colorado and Virginia, with the session hosted by global climate policy expert, and former Union of Concerned Scientists director, Alden Meyer.

“As a resident, I saw our community’s electric bill reach nearly $1 million annually and knew we could do better,” said Auslander. “By bringing residents, management and ownership together, we were able to make solar a reality. It is incredibly meaningful to be part of something that will leave a cleaner, greener environment for future generations.”

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Meadow Ridge’s solar initiative offsets approximately 585 metric tons of carbon annually. That is equivalent to the annual emissions of a gas-powered car traveling nearly 1.5 million miles, the energy use of 78 homes or charging more than 47 million cell phones.

Auslander’s involvement underscores the meaningful role residents play in shaping the future of Meadow Ridge and demonstrates how collaboration and initiative can drive impactful change. “To see one of our residents contribute to a national conversation around sustainability is truly inspiring,” said Executive Director Chris Barstein. “Susan’s leadership reflects the spirit of Meadow Ridge and the powerful impact of resident-driven initiatives.”

About Meadow Ridge
Meadow Ridge, developed by Senior Care Development, LLC and managed by Benchmark Senior Living, is one of Connecticut’s most comprehensive continuing care retirement communities. Located in the picturesque town of Redding and recognized for excellence by U.S. News and World Report, Meadow Ridge sits on 136 acres and offers 285 independent living apartment homes, as well as assisted living and memory care. The campus also features Ridge Crest, an award-winning, sub-acute rehabilitation and skilled nursing center. For more information, visit www.MeadowRidge.com.