Jeremy Price, a committed solar installation trainee with GRID Alternatives, holds a deep connection to the San Fernando Community Health Clinic (SFCHC).
"This community is my home—I was born and raised in LA and grew up coming to this health center," he shares.
Jeremy is one of many individuals who have advanced their careers through GRID’s Installation Basics Training (IBT) program, which provides hands-on experience in the clean energy industry. Earlier this year, SFCHC made a significant leap toward sustainability by installing a 247-panel solar system. This project, led by GRID Alternatives Los Angeles, included valuable contributions from trainees like Jeremy, who were eager to give back to their community.
"I was at a transitional home when GRID’s workforce team introduced their program. I knew I wanted to make a positive impact in my community, but it wasn’t until I found GRID that I discovered how," Jeremy reflects.
SFCHC, a federally qualified medical center, has been a pillar of the San Fernando, California, community since 1924. The clinic offers a wide range of essential services, including primary care, pediatrics, OBGYN, dental care, behavioral health, immunizations, and diabetes education. Each year, SFCHC serves over 8,000 patients, ensuring access to quality care regardless of income or insurance status.
"1 in 5 Angelenos receive care from a community health center. Programs like this strengthen our communal safety net, ensuring everyone has access to quality, comprehensive care."
--Louise McCarthy, President and CEO of the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County
The new solar system is expected to generate over 169,000-kilowatt hours annually, covering approximately 60% of the clinic’s energy costs and eliminating over 130 tons of carbon emissions each year—benefiting both the clinic and the broader San Fernando community.
"Health centers have always been leaders in their communities, prioritizing the well-being of their patients. Now, they’re also leading the way in environmental stewardship," said Andrew MacCalla, founder of Collective Energy.
"This community is my home—I was born and raised in LA and grew up coming to this health center... I knew I wanted to make a positive impact in my community, but it wasn’t until I found GRID that I discovered how."
Jeremy Price, GRID GLA IBT Solar Installation Trainee who worked on construction of the clinic's solar system
In celebration of National Health Center Week, SFCHC hosted an event on August 8th, 2024, to inaugurate their new solar system and recognize the partnerships that made it possible. The event featured remarks from SFCHC board members, local officials, and community leaders, including Louise McCarthy, President and CEO of the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County. She emphasized the critical role of community health centers, stating, "1 in 5 Angelenos receive care from a community health center. Programs like this strengthen our communal safety net, ensuring everyone has access to quality, comprehensive care."
The ceremonial switching on of the solar system marked the beginning of SFCHC’s clean energy future. The system, prominently installed atop the health center’s roof, symbolizes the collaboration, dedication, and expertise that are driving us toward an inclusive, renewable energy future.
This solar installation was made possible by Collective Energy, a company that funds solar and battery storage projects for non-profit community health centers across California.
For more about this project, watch this video from our partners at Collective Energy.
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