GRID Alternatives was honored to be a finalist for the 2012 Green Innovation Award from Innovate North State. The award recognizes companies whose product or services is strengthening the economy while increasing sustainability in the 530 area code. We were joined by two other innovative and influential companies, Springboard Biodiesel and Sunset Moulding. While the award went to Springboard Biodiesel, we are pleased to be recognized for the economic benefits our Solar Affordable Housing Program brings to communities across the state.
As a nonprofit, GRID Alternatives occupies a unique space in economic development. The investments we leverage to install solar energy has direct economic benefit to communities. In just one year, the North Valley office installed 162 systems that will result in over $5 million in energy cost savings for families over 30 years. This is money GRID Alternatives' program has made available to be spent in the predominantly rural, local economy.
GRID Alternatives is an award winning nonprofit, including: the Governors Environmental and Economic Leadership Award in 2008, the New Leaders Council Energy Leadership Award in 2009, the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award in 2010, the US Green Building Councils Green Building Super Hero Award in 2010, the Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions award for initiating the Solar Affordable Housing Program, Renewable Energy Award for Innovation in Policy at the Renewable Energy World North America Conference & Expo in 2011, and the 2012 Annual Clean Air Awards.
A big thank you to our volunteers, sponsors and partners whose assistance has made it possible to improve the livelihoods of over 1,000 families through solar energy technology in 2012 alone.
For more information on the other finalists, awardees and Innovate North State click here