GRID IE’s focus on income-qualified homeowners and job trainees in 2016 delivered radiant results throughout the year. We held two very successful Troops to Solar events, recognizing the commitment of our armed forces while training veterans for jobs in the rapidly expanding solar industry. Both events were well attended by supporters celebrating the success a program that has trained over 100 Inland Empire veterans of which 19 are currently working in the solar industry.
In April, GRID IE celebrated our 1,000th solar installation project for a homeowner from the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians. The installation was paired with students from Desert Mirage High School who participate in GRID’s Solar Futures program, exposing them to skills necessary to open career opportunities in the solar industry. US Congressman Raul Ruiz commented about the event, “I introduced H.R. 1005, the Renewable Energy Jobs Act to help our students get critical on-the-job training and experience to enter the job market and succeed. This goes hand-in-hand with what GRID Alternatives is doing, and I am thrilled that they are training our future workforce while helping families save with renewable energy.”
Another important GRID milestone was reached in May as we celebrated five years in the Inland Empire. Over 150 homeowners, volunteers and supporters recognized GRID’s five years of solar success with a party covered by online magazine Planet Experts. GRID Co-Founder and CEO Erica Mackie attended and spoke about how GRID IE is always searching for the best ways to respond to the Inland community. She commented how the GRID IE team has developed innovative programs such as Solar Futures, Solar Spring Break and Tribal that are now national initiatives. Habitat for Humanity - Riverside Executive Director Kathy Michalak spoke as well, mentioning that GRID’s partnership with Habitat really benefits individuals in disadvantaged communities in terms of energy conservation and job training.
2017 will bring new opportunities in making solar energy and job training accessible to families who need it most. You can expect GRID IE to introduce unique programs designed to engage volunteers and job trainees in areas such as community engagement and client acquisition. If you have an interest in learning more, call us today. You can help us achieve our goal to reach as many potential GRID homeowners as possible. Please call 951.471.7043 for more information.