Thirty-one homes in the Morgan Community Miles of Baltimore, Maryland, are receiving the benefits of solar power thanks to a partnership between the City of Baltimore, the US Department of Energy, Civic Works, GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic,. Baltimore Energy Challenge, and Morgan State University.
Renewable energy created jobs nearly 17 times faster than the rest of the economy in 2016, yet a common argument against the industry is that it costs traditional energy jobs, harming more workers and families than it benefits. A new initiative in Washington is aiming to put this myth to rest by showing that renewable energy not only creates jobs, but also improves society as a whole.
Turnage and Garner were two of five trainees who recently installed solar panels at the Woodland home of retiree Catherine Bennett, 78. “I knew I needed a little help” with the electricity bill, said Bennett, who has lived in the house in Southeast Washington for 41 years. “This may help me some.” Decked out in green hard hats, yellow T-shirts, and harnesses, the trainees were supervised by members of GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic, the regional branch of a national nonprofit group that helps implement solar power for low- to moderate-income families free.
Last month, the D.C. Government launched Solar Works DC, a job-training program for low-income residents. GRID Alternatives will develop the training program and work with program graduates to install solar systems across the District.
DC Mayor will commit to honoring the Paris Climate Accords. This story highlights one of GRID's homeowners, Harold Thomas, his commitment to renewable energy, and his GRID solar system.
For years, solar installers in the Washington metropolitan area have grumbled about a shortage of qualified applicants for entry-level positions. They've also fretted about a lack of low-income customers. Now, a new program could address both of these concerns head-on.
GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic awarded grant to train 75 district residents for solar careers and install solar systems for up to 100 low-income households in year one.
GRID Alternatives works diligently at educating communities that may have never heard of solar power. Adewale OgunBadejo works as the group's workforce development manager and is committed to giving underserved communities a stake in the renewable revolution.
