In the face of the 2001 California energy crisis, Erica Mackie, P.E., and Tim Sears, P.E., founded GRID Alternatives, driven by a simple yet profound idea: the sun's free and clean electricity should be accessible to all. Their vision, which began with the installation of a single-family solar system for the Cubas family in San Francisco in 2004, has since grown into the nation's largest nonprofit solar installer, serving low-income communities across the United States and internationally.
GRID Alternatives envisions a rapid, equitable transition to a world powered by renewable energy, benefiting everyone. The organization's mission is to build community-powered solutions that advance economic and environmental justice through renewable energy. This mission aligns seamlessly with several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Since its inception, GRID has been at the forefront of low-income solar policy and installation. In 2008, the California Public Utilities Commission selected GRID to manage the groundbreaking Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) incentive program, catalysing its expansion across California. Today, GRID serves families throughout California, Colorado, the Mid-Atlantic region, and tribal communities nationwide. The Energy For All Program, formerly known as the Solar Affordable Housing Program, offers single-family, multifamily, and community solar installation services, project development, and technical assistance. Moreover, GRID provides various levels of workforce development and service-learning opportunities, ranging from volunteerism to in-depth solar training and paid internships.
Global reach and local impact
GRID Alternatives' commitment to renewable energy extends beyond the United States. Its international program partners with communities in Nicaragua, Nepal, and Mexico to tackle energy access issues, embodying the spirit of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By working collaboratively with these communities, GRID helps to provide sustainable energy solutions that are both locally relevant and globally impactful.
A commitment to equity and inclusion
At the core of GRID Alternatives' operations is a steadfast commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity. Under-resourced communities and communities of colour disproportionately bear the burden of environmental injustice and climate change. GRID believes that the voices and leadership of these communities are crucial for creating equitable and lasting solutions.
The organization is dedicated to advancing an equity agenda within GRID and the broader energy industry. This involves examining and addressing systemic inequities, amplifying the voices of the communities served, and expanding access to solar energy and career opportunities. GRID's focus areas for diversity work include race, class, gender, sexual orientation, education level, veteran status, disability, and those impacted by the criminal justice system, reflecting a commitment to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Building a culture of diversity and respect
Creating an inclusive environment is a priority for GRID Alternatives. On job sites, in workplaces, and boardrooms, the organisation strives to ensure that staff, volunteers, trainees, clients, and community representatives are heard, supported, respected, and valued. This inclusive culture is essential for fostering diversity and achieving GRID's vision of a world powered by renewable energy that benefits everyone.
As GRID continues to build its culture of equity, inclusion, and diversity, it collaborates with skilled consultants, facilitators, and trainers to support this work. By sharing their contact information, GRID hopes to inspire other organizations to benefit from their expertise, promoting broader industry-wide progress toward SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
A future powered by renewable energy
GRID Alternatives' journey from a response to the California energy crisis to a leader in the renewable energy sector exemplifies the transformative power of community-driven solutions. By aligning its mission with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, GRID not only advances economic and environmental justice but also contributes to a sustainable future for all. As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, GRID's model of making solar PV technology accessible to low-income communities offers a beacon of hope and a blueprint for equitable, clean energy transitions worldwide.
More information: https://gridalternatives.org/
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