At GRID Alternatives, we understand that partnerships between organizations and communities are vital to creating meaningful and lasting change. Our mission is to build community-powered solutions that advance economic and environmental justice through renewable energy, and we envision a world where the transition to clean energy is rapid, equitable, and benefits everyone. As we continue to expand our impact on our 20th anniversary and beyond, we proudly announce our new partnership with Invenergy, the leading privately-held developer, builder, owner, and operator of wind, solar, and natural gas generation projects and energy storage facilities across the Americas, Asia and Europe as well as investors in transmission lines essential to connect clean generation capacity and move power long distance.
Since 2021, Invenergy has been an impactful philanthropic partner of GRID Alternatives, contributing to our nationwide efforts in income-qualified solar and workforce development programs. In 2024, Invenergy accelerated its delivery of cleaner, more reliable, affordable energy and awarded GRID a $300,000 grant to empower communities through targeted workforce development and solar energy initiatives. This collaboration–set to run through 2026–will focus on supporting workforce development within Tribal communities and enhancing the representation of women in the solar industry through our SolarCorps Fellowship Program.
Empowering Energy Resilience in Tribal Communities through Workforce Development
Since 2010, GRID’s National Tribal Program has been dedicated to supporting Tribal communities across the United States in achieving their renewable energy goals. By partnering with Tribes to identify, develop, finance, and implement solar power projects, we bring clean energy solutions to their communities and create local job opportunities through our Installation Basics Training (IBT) program, ensuring that the clean energy opportunities and economic resources stay within Tribal communities. GRID’s hands-on program equips trainees with the skills they need to succeed in the solar industry, from understanding solar electricity to participating in real-world installations. Since 2010, we have supported over 1,660 Tribal members across the U.S through our workforce development initiatives.
With Invenergy’s support through 2026, we can expand our efforts to provide training opportunities for more members of Tribal communities, increase the scope of our projects, and ultimately install even more kilowatts of solar energy, which will bring significant cost savings to these communities.
Elevating Women in Solar
Since our organization’s inception in 2004, we have been leaders in championing a diverse solar workforce and creating space for those traditionally underrepresented in the solar industry, including women.
As part of our partnership, Invenergy will also support women to participate in our SolarCorps Fellowship Program each year from 2024 to 2026. Invenergy believes the clean energy transition will only be successful if it works for all people and their economies–which is why they invest heavily in training the next generation’s skills. GRID’s 11-month paid fellowship offers those who are new to the workforce or interested in a career change, to gain hands-on experience in areas such as construction, outreach, project management, program administration, and communications, providing fellows with valuable skills and a pathway to full-time employment in the solar industry. By supporting this program, Invenergy will help ensure that more women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, have the building blocks to thrive in future careers within the clean energy sector.
"Invenergy’s commitment to supporting our SolarCorps Fellowship Program is truly transformative. Their investment in our fellows, particularly women in solar, enhances the diversity and strength of our workforce and empowers individuals to pursue meaningful careers in clean energy. We are deeply grateful for Invenergy’s impactful partnership and mission to deliver cleaner, more reliable, affordable energy, which helps us build a more inclusive and sustainable future for all." – Laura Hirshfield, National SolarCorps Director at GRID Alternatives.
A Brighter Future for All
GRID’s’ Workforce Development Programs are designed to bridge the gap between underrepresented communities and the rapidly growing clean energy sector. By aligning with Invenergy, we are creating a pathway for trainees and fellows to connect with potential career opportunities.
We are excited to embark on this partnership with Invenergy, working together to build a brighter and more equitable future for all. This year, GRID is proudly celebrating our 20th anniversary, and our work is transformative in due part to support from innovative partners like Invenergy. Our vision of an equitable transition to clean energy that benefits everyone is made possible by the continued support and collaboration with our partners and communities. We extend heartfelt gratitude to Invenergy, and look forward to the future of our impactful partnership!
