A Message from GRID Bay Area Executive Director Renée Sharp

To the GRID Bay Area Family,

When I told the team in January that I would be transitioning out of my role as Executive Director to work on the 2020 election, I never thought that my last few months would be spent helping to chart a course for the organization through a global pandemic while the nation grapples with heartbreaking examples of police brutality and systemic racism.

While we are still in the process of adapting to the changed world, I am happy to report that GRID Bay Area is installing solar again for low-income families, following strict safety protocols. Volunteer workdays and most in-person trainings have been put on hold for now, but we are grateful that so many of you have been showing up in the digital world to continue to be a part of GRID’s important work. We have seen impressive attendance at our monthly workshops  – now taking place online, as well as at our virtual gala Interconnection in May. It’s hard to describe how much we have appreciated your support during these last few months. Thank you for believing in GRID’s effort to create a more just and equitable world through clean energy access and job training. 

The shelter in place has given me a lot of time to reflect on my time at this amazing organization, and I am so proud of what we have been able to accomplish together. Over the past 5 years, GRID Bay Area has grown and our work has deepened – we are now installing twice as many kilowatts per year, with new programs bringing solar to affordable housing, non-profits, and low-income homeowners. We launched a successful clean mobility program that is allowing people in underserved communities to get access to electric vehicles (and soon e-bikes), as well as two programs that provide roof repair and replacements to low-income families who can’t afford them. Our efforts to provide tribal communities access to clean, renewable energy are thriving, and our workforce development team has been able to provide more extensive job training than ever before. We are also thrilled to have a growing membership program that creates even more unique opportunities for ongoing connection to our important work. Though I am leaving GRID, I will remain a proud and active member!

It has been quite a journey – one that has been made possible by a truly remarkable community of partners, volunteers, clients, members and donors. I am particularly grateful for my Board of Directors who have always provided me with sage advice, thoughtful questions, and ongoing support. More than anything, I want to say the biggest thank you possible to the whole GRID Bay Area staff. I feel beyond lucky to have worked alongside so many incredible, dedicated and passionate people who have taught me so much. My hat is off to you all. It is hard to believe that it has been almost 5 years since I joined GRID, but it is even harder to say goodbye.  

Sincerely,