A look inside Americas first solar-powered communityand its hurricane-proof, too

America’s first solar-powered community has had a “mind-blowing” effect on residents’ power bills — and it’s even getting attention for surviving Hurricane Milton unscathed, and without losing power.Billed as “the Hometown of Tomorrow,” this planned community in Punta Gorda, FL, just 15 miles from Fort Myers, is fueled by solar energy, thanks to the 880-acre solar field at the Babcock Ranch Solar Energy Center.Its central gathering place, Founder’s Square, even has solar trees where residents can charge their devices.Every home in Babcock Ranch is built to the minimum Bronze Standard FGBC Certification, which has many energy-saving components.The models range in price from just under $300,000 to $4 million.The ultra-resilient structures feature high-performance windows and insulation; tight construction and ducts; efficient heating and cooling equipment; and energy-saving lighting and appliances.All of those features result in lower utility costs — and it’s attracting residents.“It’s very important to know that you are having a positive impact on the Earth,” says Jason Upperco, a 49-year-old executive who recently had a house built in Babcock Ranch.Upperco even moved in ahead of plan, leasing a place in the community’s build-to-rent area, called The Flatwoods, to get the lay of the land.Resident Janette Dulaney says when she opened her first electric bill after moving to Babcock Ranch, it was “mind-blowing.”“It was half the cost of our old home’s, yet we have double the square footage now,” she told the Babcock Ranch Telegraph.“It’s also helping the environment,” Dulaney noted, calling it a major win-win.The energy-efficient homes in Babcock Ranch are climate-resilient, too.

The community has even gained fame as “Florida’s first hurricane-proof town.”“We are on a mission to build the most innovative, resilient, and climate-resilient town in America, and in a few short years, we’ve done just that,” say...