“It’s hot here for more than half of the year. Especially during the summer, most of my paycheck goes toward the electric bill. I'm excited to see how it’s going to save me money and impact my family,” shared Anna Ramirez, San Bernardino homeowner and recipient of grant-funded solar.
In November 2024, Bank of America volunteers and GRID IE teamed up in San Bernardino, California, to install solar for the Ramirez Family home. Through this Team-Building Sponsored Volunteer Workday, which funded support for GRID IE’s work, Bank of America employees geared up and worked alongside GRID IE’s Construction Team.
Left to right: Minerva and Lisa from Bank of America, with Jeremiah from GRID IE
Minerva, GRID IE volunteer and Market Leader at Bank of America (Corona and Riverside) described herself as “energic, helpful, and positive” after painting and labeling the electrical panels and conduit with fellow volunteer Lisa and GRID IE’s Solar Installation Supervisor Jeremiah.
“It was a fun experience–Jeremiah helped me do everything right!” shared Minerva.
GRID IE Solar Installation Supervisor Danny, with Bank of America volunteer Lisa, installing wiring.
While strong winds prevented the installation of solar panels on the roof on this day—they act like sails when being moved into position on a windy day—there was the opportunity for the volunteers to work on the racking and wiring required on the roof to support the solar panel installation roof on another day.
The volunteers also worked on the ground to learn essential procedures, such as reading electrical plans and protocols for handling solar panels, under the guidance of Danny M., GRID IE’s Solar Installation Supervisor.
Homeowner Anna Ramirez
Earlier in the year, Anna discovered GRID IE’s no-cost solar program after seeing it on SCE’s website. “I saw how GRID IE helped other families, which made me feel safe to apply compared to an independent solar company.”
After further research and reviewing the solar contracts with GRID IE Outreach Coordinator Zoe O., Anna felt confident. “I wanted to make sure that I wouldn't be locked into a situation where I couldn't sell my house or refinance. Through GRID’s program, I still have that choice. GRID is working with me,” explained Anna.
“I’m definitely going to share this program with my friends and family. The crew was very professional and explained everything. Without my Outreach Coordinator, Zoe, and the funds that trimmed my tree and reroofed my home to install solar panels–this wouldn’t be happening. Thank you GRID IE and Bank of America volunteers!” We can’t wait for your savings to begin, Anna!
Installing this 5.4kW solar system will save 27 tons of CO2 from being released into the atmosphere, equivalent to taking 6 cars off the road or planting 413 trees!
GRID Inland Empire thanks the Bank of America team for helping us bring solar to our neighborhoods, and we look forward to more.