Author: Ronald Bethea Published 08/13/2025 PCPC Online Digital Podcast-Radio-YouTube TV Network
Solar Now and the Future with Its Economic Impact on Black America
“IF POWER IS IN NUMBERS (PCPC LLC) CAPTURES THAT POWER FOR YOUR FINANCIAL BENEFIT”
This show serves as a national platform for African and African American consumers that will be affected by federal, state, and municipal mandates. We have had interviews with the private, public and non-profit sectors, stakeholders talking about the benefits of installing solar panels and every subject matter of economic interest, surrounding the solar and renewal energy industry.Guest have discussed the important roles black Americans play every day in their everyday jobs in the solar and renewable energy industry.
Quick recap
The meeting focused on discussing the Solar for All program and its impact on providing solar energy access to low and moderate-income residents, with Michael Henry sharing his company’s innovative solar projects and Will Shirley presenting Sundial Solar’s work in Mississippi. The discussion covered the program’s history, current status, and recent challenges, including the EPA’s announcement to terminate the program and ongoing legal battles. The participants explored the future of the solar industry, market dynamics, and the importance of community-focused solar solutions, while also addressing concerns about government funding, tax credits, and the need for public education on energy issues.
Next steps
- Michael Henry to share his blueprint for moving money from nonprofit organizations to solar projects with Ronald and Will.
- Will Shirley to work with Michael Henry on developing a franchise model for Sundial Solar USA.
- Ronald to send the National Black Conference of Mayors virtual conference link to Michael Henry.
- Ronald to connect Michael Henry and Will Shirley with Eric Henderson for financing resources for their African projects.
- Michael Henry and Will Shirley to collaborate on strategies to make their businesses “Trump-proof” and resilient against policy changes.
- Ronald, Michael, and Will to develop a national media campaign strategy targeting corporations that can underwrite the cost.
Summary
Community Solar Energy Collaboration
Ronald hosted a discussion about solar energy initiatives and community development, with Will and Michael expressing interest in collaborating on renewable energy projects and supporting Ronald’s work. Ronald mentioned an upcoming National Black Conference of Mayors virtual conference where he plans to include discussions about African projects, and offered financing resources for initiatives on the continent. The participants agreed to work together on building a strategy for community solar energy development and supporting Ronald’s platform, which provides free content but requires donations to maintain operations.
Data Centers’ Environmental and Economic Impact
Ronald discussed the impact of data centers and large-scale solar projects on electricity costs and environmental issues. He highlighted how tech companies and fossil fuel industries have influenced regulations and increased costs for consumers, particularly in red districts. Ronald emphasized the need to educate the public about these issues and support companies like Michael Henry’s that can help address the problem. He also mentioned organizing a national media campaign to raise awareness and potentially underwrite its costs.
Solar Innovations and EV Charging
Michael shared his journey in the solar industry, starting with his interest in EV charging 10 years ago but shifting to solar energy after being unimpressed with existing charge points. He described his innovative approach of using solar panels on cell phone towers to maximize land use and energy generation, highlighting projects in the US and Canada. Michael also discussed his recent ventures into EV charging, attracted by a company’s solution to the common problem of malfunctioning EV chargers. Additionally, he mentioned his work on converting tires into electricity and diesel fuel, and his establishment of a black-owned solar franchise company.
Solar Franchise Expansion Discussion
Michael discussed his franchise business operations across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Africa. Ronald introduced Will Shirley from Sundial Solar USA, highlighting Will’s involvement with the National Association of Blacks in Solar and their work in Mississippi. Will shared Sundial Solar’s history, including their role in promoting solar energy in Mississippi and their involvement with the Gulf States Renewable Energy Industries Association. He mentioned considering franchising for about six months and their plans to enter the franchise scenario, though they lack expertise in this area.
Solar Grants Cancellation Discussion
Ronald introduced the topic of the Solar for All program, which was part of the Greenhouse Gas Initiative, and discussed its impact on low and moderate-income residents’ access to solar energy. He mentioned that Hope Credit Union in Mississippi and other entities were preparing to distribute grants to contractors when the EPA announced the cancellation of these grants. Ronald invited Michael Henry to introduce his company and discuss its involvement in the process
Solar for All Program Status
Ronald explained the history and current status of the Solar for All program, which started as a pilot in Washington, D.C. in 2011 and was later adopted by the Biden-Harris administration as a national program with a $7 billion budget. He described how the program was initially implemented through CDFIs (Community Development Financial Institutions) and later transferred to Citicorp before the end of the Biden-Harris administration. Ronald noted that the EPA recently announced the termination of the program, but legal challenges are expected, as various entities have vowed to fight the decision in court.
Solar for All Legal Battle
Ronald discussed the ongoing legal battle regarding a $62 million case in Maryland, which has been turned over to the US Attorney’s office. He emphasized the need to document the time and effort invested by communities in organizing and promoting the Solar for All program, particularly in Mississippi, where Will shared details about their engagement efforts over a year in the Mississippi Delta. Will explained their work with various organizations, including Hope Enterprises Corporation, which won a grant for low-interest loans to support community solar projects, though funding was later pulled by the Trump administration. Both Ronald and Will highlighted their ongoing relationships with key stakeholders and organizations supporting solar initiatives in Mississippi.
Solar Industry Growth and Challenges
Ronald discussed the solar industry’s growth, noting a 33% increase in solar energy electrons in 2024, despite regulatory challenges in certain states. He highlighted that market dynamics, rather than policy, are shaping the industry’s future, citing a decrease in fossil fuel financing by major banks. Ronald also mentioned Nancy Smith’s insights on the increasing competitiveness of solar and wind energy, with battery storage enhancing their market position. He concluded by asking about the number of solar projects in line for funding, emphasizing the importance of understanding the impact of potential funding changes.
Solar Funding for Nonprofit Projects
Michael discussed his experience managing approximately $790 million in funding for solar projects across the country, focusing on nonprofit organizations in Mississippi and Arkansas. He explained that the project required creating 3-5 megawatts of energy on 3 acres of land, and he worked with 60 nonprofit organizations to implement this, including Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and churches. Michael developed a blueprint for distributing the funds through a green bank system, but the project ultimately did not proceed as planned, though he remains hopeful it could be revived in the future.
Private Business Over Government Dependency
Michael expressed concerns about the current administration’s handling of funds and their history of bankruptcy, stating he is less focused on government-dependent projects and more on private business and solar energy for Democratic supporters. He emphasized that his business is not dependent on government support and will continue to operate regardless of political changes. Ronald suggested that the entities receiving the funding should take the lead in advocating for its restoration.
Renewable Tax Credit Impact Discussion
The group discussed the impact of the expiration of federal tax credits for renewable energy and EV charging. Michael and Will shared their perspectives on the solar industry, with Michael emphasizing his company’s resilience and commitment to community-focused solar solutions regardless of tax incentives, while Will highlighted the importance of economic development for communities of color. Ronald raised concerns about the potential negative effects of the tax credit expiration on the auto industry and job losses in the EV sector. The discussion touched on the need for collaboration and building a sustainable economic model that is not dependent on government incentives.