“I am happy that I was selected for this,” said Ms. Williams, beaming, “I’m elated!”
Ms. Williams just received 14 solar panels on the roof of her house. The 3.43 kW system will save her an estimated $17,000 on her electric bill during the systems’ lifetime. This money will come in handy for Ms. Williams, a Baltimore senior who lives on a fixed income. Secretary Moniz of the U.S. Department of Energy, Congressman Sarbanes of the 3rd District of Maryland, and Baltimore Mayor-elect Catherine Pugh joined GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic for this solar installation, to show their support for the continued growth of low-income solar in Baltimore.
“We have seen a tremendous expansion of these programs,” said Secretary Moniz, “We are so excited to see this install in action today.” The install was completed by Civic Works job trainees, an organization partnering with GRID to bring energy efficiency and solar energy to low-income families in Baltimore. Tony, a Civic Works job trainee, spoke to the group about how her experience with GRID Alternatives was going to help her with her future career. 
One of GRID’s new construction staff, Dominic, recently completed a pathway program from the District Department of Energy and the Environment’s (DOEE) Green Zone Environmental Program. After his job training was complete, GRID offered him a SolarCorps construction job. Dominic will continue to work with GRID for one year, to further enhance his training and experience in solar installations. “We have a great team in the office. I still have a lot to learn, and every day I feel excited to go to work,” said Dominic to the gathered crowd.
This install in Baltimore was a result of a partnership between Morgan State University, Coppin State University, GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic, Baltimore Energy Challenge, and the City of Baltimore. “We look forward to doing this throughout the Baltimore,” said Mayor-elect Pugh, “and we want to create opportunities for the people of Baltimore to join a growing industry.”
The install was followed by a White House Summit at Morgan State University, where Secretary Moniz of the U.S. Department of Energy and Secretary Perez of the U.S. Department of Labor started off by talking about the importance of expanding energy efficiency and access to renewables for low-to-moderate income communities, and the necessity for interagency collaboration. Further discussion continued on clean energy policy in Maryland, and ended with “Creating a Diverse Clean Energy Workforce” panel, where Nicole Steele, Executive Director of GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic, spoke about the effectiveness and importance of GRID’s job training programs. The day ended on a high-note, with people feeling energized and ready to spread low-income solar around Maryland!
Help other homeowners go solar and save thousands on their electricity bills by donating to GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic this Holiday Season!