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Author: Ronald Bethea     Published: 6/11/2021        NABS

THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF BLACKS IN ENERGY (AABE) WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACKS IN SOLAR(NABS)

PRESENT A

WEBINAR ON

Where is the Green Economic Development Plan for African Americans in The Implementation of Biden’s Green Infrastructure Plan?

Executive Order 13985 Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government.

 

Date to be solicited by scheduling@hq.doe.gov

Date: June 21, 22, 28, or 29, 2021

Time: 11: 00 AM -12: 30 P.M. EST.

 Agenda   

Introduction of Speakers Moderators – Ronald K. Bethea, President of NABS and Tracy Woods VP AABE

Written Statements and Presenters

  1. Ronald Bethea, President of NABS Introduction and Overview (written statement) Moderator 10 minutes

2. Will Shirley President of SunDial Solar US and VP of NABS Review of Disparities in the Solar Industry  Guidance on funding the operations of NABS 5 minutes

3. Mayor Johnny Ford ………… The need for funding of NABS with voluntary support from the World Conference of Mayors written statement 5 minutes

4. Lilia Abron…………………… 5 Year HBCU Green Sustainability Plan (written Statement) 5minutes

5. Mark Davis ………………………… D.C. Solar for All Program Expansion and Expansion of Solar Job Training via HBCU’s written statement Speaker 5 minutes

6. Efrem Jernigan ………………………The Sunny Side Solar Project – Barriers and many Roadblocks (written statement) Speaker 5 minutes

7. Tracey Woods AABE VP of Operations Moderator (Introduction of US DOE Secretary Jennifer Grandholm) 5 minutes

8. S. Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm (20minutes presentation) 20 minutes

9. Q and A US Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm (15 minutes Q and A) Moderated by Tracey Woods

10. Ronald Bethea ………………………. Closing Remarks 3 minutes

We have provided Secretary Grandholm with a copy of each speaker’s five minute written statement so she can prepare her responses. The statements are listed below with this symbol * next to the name of the person speaking.

                                                     What’s In Biden’s Infrastructure Plan?

            Author: Alicia Parlapiano and Jim Tankersley, March 31, 2021, New York Times

 President Biden on Wednesday released his $2 trillion plan to shore up the nation’s infrastructure and create jobs. The sprawling proposal would be paid for with 15 years of higher taxes on corporations. Here’s how the spending breaks down:

Transportation

Among the proposals: Modernize 20,000 miles of highways and roads; repair 10,000 bridges; and, by 2030, build a network of 500,000 electric vehicle chargers.

The goal: To revitalize the aging or crumbling corridors that get American people and products from place to place, while reducing the sector’s reliance on fossil fuels that drive climate change. Estimated cost in billions: Electric vehicle incentives $174 Roads and bridges, $115 public transit, $85 passenger and freight railways, $80 Disaster resilience, $50 Other, $35 Airports, $25 Improve road safety $20 underserved communities, $20 Waterways, and ports $17

Buildings and Utilities

 One of the largest investments includes more than $200 billion in tax credits and grants to improve and build affordable housing.

 The goal: To make homes and commercial buildings more energy efficient; reduce the lead hazards of old water pipes; bridge the urban-rural digital divide; and modernize the electrical grid for greater reliability and wider deployment of low-carbon electricity.

Estimated cost in billions

*Affordable housing $213

*High-speed broadband $100

*Electric grid and clean energy $100

*Public schools $100

*Water systems $66

*Eliminate lead pipes $45

*Childcare facilities $25

*Veteran’s hospitals $18

*Community colleges $12

*Federal buildings $10

 Jobs and Innovation

 The plan goes beyond physical infrastructure, proposing more than $500 billion to invest in the manufacturing sector, worker training and research and development.

The goal: The president has said that he wants to position America to compete against China and other rivals in the race to build and dominate industries of the future, like semiconductors and advanced batteries.

Estimated cost in billions

*Domestic manufacturing $52

National Science Foundation $50

*Supply chain support $50

Semiconductor industry $50

*Work force development $48

*Clean energy manufacturing $46

*Research infrastructure $40

New dislocated worker program $40

*Climate technology $35

*Small-business support $31

Research and development $30

Pandemic preparedness $30

*Research at H.B.C.U.s $25

*Community investment $20

Innovation and competitiveness $14

*Underserved communities $12

*New rural partnership program $5

In-Home Care

The plan also includes $400 billion to expand access to caregiving for those who are older and those with disabilities, and to improve pay and benefits for caregivers.

The goal: Broadens the traditional definition of “infrastructure” to include the provision of in-home care. From an economic standpoint, administration officials say, it is as much about the workers providing that care as it is about the patients. The money would help those workers, disproportionately women of color and low-paid, to earn more.

Source: The White House

Participants/Respondents

  • * Dr. Lilia A. Abron, PEER Consultants, P.C.: The Biden Administration will comply with the Paris Accord. This is going to require a trained workforce to meet these goals. Initiative 5 of the Equitable and Just National Climate Platform calls for the creation of new programs to deliver benefit to the EJ communities. HBCUs are located in EJ communities. They must be an integral part of the training of this workforce. A 5-year Sustainable Development Plan is already prepared, and it calls for the requisite training of this workforce in the classroom and hands-on training using the HBCU campus facilities as the laboratory. $5,000,000 is requested to pilot and then implement this program at 5 HBCUs.

Vicky A. Bailey, Chairman of The U.S. Energy Association, former President of PSI Energy, Inc.: Vicky A. Bailey has over thirty years of high level, national and international, corporate executive and governmental expertise in energy and regulated industries. Most recently, in the private sector, she has been involved as an entrepreneur and principal of BHMM Energy Services LLC, a certified minority owned energy facilities management organization, as well as the president of the Anderson Stratton International LLC management consultants in domestic and international energy industries. Ms. Bailey’s executive experience includes President and board member of PSI Energy, Inc., Indiana’s largest electric utility and subsidiary of the holding company Cinergy Corp., now Duke Indiana. Ms. Bailey’s governmental career included presidential appointments by President George W. Bush as the first Assistant Secretary for both Policy and International Affairs (2001-2004) of the U.S. Department of Energy and an earlier appointment by President Bill Clinton to the office of Commissioner (1993-2000) on the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

Chuck Banks Software Engineer and Solar Consultant: Contact:202-766-3330 – Charles Banks <ctech1968@gmail.com>

Donnel Baird CEO  BlocPower Partnership & Investing Opportunities: BlocPower partners with city, state and federal governments, energy utility companies, tech companies, corporations, nonprofits, and financial institutions to address issues at the intersection of climate change, workforce + diverse supplier development, economic impact, health, and environmental justice.    Contact Us

*Ronald K. Bethea President of PCPC LLC and NABS Moderator: NABS is a non- profit public policy organization addressing the specific needs of African American-owned solar installation, engineering & design, and solar workforce development companies in the U.S.  Topic of Discussion:  What does The JUSTICE 40 INITIATIVE mean to the African American Community in the form of investment from the public sector into African American – owned Institutions.  In President Biden’s Executive Order 13985 he stated the following: “Energy Justice and Equity Communities of color and low-income communities have incurred disproportionate environmental and health impacts due to pollution from our Nation’s energy system. These communities also have disproportionately high energy burdens and face barriers to accessing the benefits of solar electricity. Solar technology produces energy without fuel cost or emissions and is a key component of delivering energy justice. We work to make the benefits of solar energy available to all. We support efforts to deliver 40% of federal climate investment benefits to disadvantaged communities. Our office’s operations prioritize improvements to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). For example, we publicize new employment and funding opportunities in cooperation with minority-serving groups. Our staff cultivates an inclusive atmosphere, with formal training and recognition for DEI work. We promote DEI in our external interactions. For example, SETO events seek to include diverse and equitable representation of speakers and participants. Our funding opportunities encourage leadership and participation from underrepresented groups. We include an emphasis on equity in all our funding announcements. We also provide funding for workforce development projects to promote a more equitable solar industry. We sponsor workforce training efforts and fellowships that specifically target underserved groups”.

 The Goals of The Green Economic Development Plan for African Americans are as follows:

NABS is targeting African American-owned institutions, such as our HBCUs, Banks, Businesses, Churches, Farmers, and property owners, along with working to research and identify targeted funding for African American-owned agricultural, commercial, and residential properties nationally, through the Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (PACE) and The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The program will help with the development of manufacturing, solar and wind projects nationally, which will help combat climate change in African American communities nationally.  The Biden administration is planning to invest 1.7 trillion dollars of these resources over his first term to combat climate change.

Community engagement over the last 12 years to educate the African American community about climate change and the solar industry with its many benefits has been a major problem. Community engagement in getting the solar industry, city, state, and federal government to invest advertising dollars with African American owned media to educate African American communities has been a major issue nationally. The NABS will be solicitating funding from the public and private sectors to pay for syndication and broadcasting costs with the Urban One Radio Network of radio programs such as “Solar Now and the Future With its Economic Impact on Black America.” The program educates the black community locally and nationally about the economic impacts of climate change and provides environmental education to the black community. Through syndication, the program will be heard in 76 markets nationally, which will help drive public opinion in reaching our stated goals which the following:

A. Increasing the market share for African American solar design, installation, and work force development companies. The NASB will work on public policy issues with stakeholders from the public and private sectors such as the following:

 

  1. African American Mayors Association
  2. Public service commissions and African American members of those PSC Commissions, nationally
  3. African American state legislative caucuses and their members, nationally
  4. African American city council members, county commissioners, nationally
  5. Other non-profit organizations advocating for equity for African American communities in the solar industry.

B. Negotiating a position with major corporations to serve as off takers for NABS Member Projects on their books.

C. Achieving a National Solar Consultancy for African American Institutions, municipalities, counties,

communities.

D. To utilize African American owned farmlands and HBCU campuses to develop capacity and initiatives for solar installation projects to bring down unemployment and under employment of young black men and women nationally.

E. To encourage HBCUs to inter into more public/private partnerships with solar companies and private investment companies to set up more solar farms on African American owned farmlands and HBCU campuses nationally.

F. To encourage HBCUs with schools of business, communication, and engineering to develop better working relations with local solar companies in the area to develop local advertising programs to target the African American community to get the word out on programs such as the Energy Smart DC Solar for All Program.

G. To encourage HBCUs with Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) to help identify students majoring in business administration at HBCUs to assist local solar companies in writing proposals targeting local and federal grants to develop training programs, reducing the time and resources needed for smaller solar companies in their marketplace to complete the application process for grants.

H. To open negotiation with the U.S. DOE Solar Training Network to establish a National Solar STEM Program, as well as establishing Solar Job Training Centers at Selected HBCUs and other locations around the country.

I. To open Negotiation with training platform owners to standardize solar job training in the African American communities nationwide through NABS members and partnerships.

J. To target the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) to become North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) continuing education certificate training providers through their continuing education and workforce development programs working in conjunction with African American Solar and workforce development companies to provide online training in their local area marketplaces for interested candidates.

K. To encourage HBCUs with workforce development programs to work in conjunction with local solar companies in their marketplaces to help them develop apprenticeship training programs for individuals successful in completing the NABCEP continuing education or work development training programs.

L. We are requesting full funding for a national HBCU Five – Year Green Economic Development Sustainability Plan developed by the Positive Change Purchasing Cooperative, LLC. and PEER Consultants, led by their CEO, Dr. Lilia Abron. CEO, Dr. Lilia Abron, P.E., BCEE receives the highest professional distinction accorded to an engineer, as an inductee of the National Academy of Engineers Class of 2020.

M. We are also requesting US DOE becoming a national signature sponsor for “Solar Now and The Future with Its Economic Impact on Black America” national syndication on black talk radio.

N. Funding the operations for The National Association of Blacks in Solar (NABS) to work in collaboration with our CDC’s, HBCU’s and SBDC’s to launch these initiatives.

 

  • Therese Bridges, (Tougaloo College Solar Agriculture) The goal of this program is to reach socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers to improve their participation in USDA programs.

 

  • John Boyd, Jr, PRESIDENT OF NBFA: The National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) is a non-profit organization representing African American farmers and their families in the United States. As an association, it serves tens of thousands of members nationwide. NBFA’s education and advocacy efforts have been focused on civil rights, land retention, access to public and private loans, education and agricultural training, and rural economic development for black and other small farmers.

 

  • Cherie Brooks President and CEO of Power52.org: In the aftermath of the 2015 riots, a Baltimore-based solar developer, a Real Estate Executive, and an iconic NFL star found themselves on the phone together talking about how to re-inject hope and pride in their community. From their deeply rooted faith, the three shared a vision of strengthening communities from the inside and the pride that comes when one builds his future with his own hands. Over the next year, they laid the foundation with three unique and impactful entities. With the vision of Cherie Brooks, they forged Power52 Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation dedicated to training and employing at-risk individuals in the Clean Energy Industry. Their timing is fortuitous. The underlying effort is the fundamental belief that our calling is to empower communities to build their own hope-filled future. Cherie@power52.org 443-766-0988 “Our mission is not about Power, it’s about Empowerment”

 

 

  • Ron Butler has served as the CEO of the HBCU CDAC since 2010 or Larry K. Salley Chairman of Board, The HBCU Community Action Development Coalition (CDAC): The HBCU Community Action Development Coalition (CDAC) was developed to help bring stakeholders together such as HBCU’s, MSI’s (minority-serving institutions), CDCs (Community Development Corporations), and the Community Economic Development Industry.  By connecting these organizations, HBCU CDAC helps build long-term economic opportunities for the HBCU/MSI students, small businesses near the campuses, and the broader surrounding community. Our organization tackles programs like financial education, green energy, opportunity zone funding, and helping small businesses thrive in financially underdeveloped corridors around HBCUs and MSIs.  But we need the support of individuals, corporations, government agencies, and foundations to continue this vital work.

 

  • Gilbert G Campbell III, Antonio Francis Founders of Volt Energy: With a national presence in ten cities, Volt Energy is a minority-owned renewable energy firm that finances and develops solar projects through Solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for private and public sector clients. Utilizing innovative clean technology, Volt Energy provides design, engineering, and implementation of energy storage solutions. Volt Energy’s mission is to uplift communities through the opportunities and benefits provided by clean technology. 1705 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington DC 2006 www.volt-energy.com 202-729- 8150 Gilbert Campbell on solar power’s diversity problem

 

 

  • Sabrina Campbell, Acting Budget Director in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE): As Acting Director, Sabrina Campbell oversees budget planning, development and execution in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). Prior to joining EERE, she served in the Under Secretary of Energy Office where she chaired budget development oversight and all fiscal-related matters of 12 program offices.  Additionally, she provided expertise on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), and other issues.

 

  • Jason Carney, Founder and CEO ofEnergy Electives:  At Energy Electives, we endeavor to eliminate energy bills with energy efficiency and renewable energy.Internally, we are building a sustainable, inclusive environment with fiscal, ethical, moral, and social responsibility. A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Jason Carney became the first African-American in the entire state to obtain the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification. Carney worked as the former Clean Energy Program Manager with the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy and moved forward to create Energy Electives, an energy company that provides the materials and services to help homeowners save money, improve comfort, and conserve energy. Over several years, Carney has given guest lectures about clean energy, accompanied students on field trips to nearby Music City Solar, the local utility’s community solar project, and started a solar project at Whites Creek High School, a majority-black, majority-low-income public school that is a seven-minute drive from his home in north Nashville. Read NPR’s special on Jason Carney: A Mission To Bring Solar Energy To Communities Of Color

 

  • Lenwood Coleman, VP Solar Development & Operation: Groundswell builds community power through equitable community solar projects, clean energy programs that reduce energy burdens, and pioneering research initiatives that help light the way to clean energy futures for all. Groundswell has clean energy programs and projects in place in six states, including the District of Columbia, and serves more than 3700 income-qualified customers with more than $1.85 million per year in clean energy savings. Our vision is a clean energy economy that equitably serves all people with a diverse supply chain that is free of representation and wage gaps and generates wealth, work, and savings for all the communities it serves. During 2020, Groundswell’s entire team worked together to complete a new Strategic Plan that defines our goals, how well reach them, and how we’ll measure our progress. It takes about 15 minutes or so to flip through it, or a bit longer to read it word for word. coleman@groundswell.org 240-303-2944

 

  • Richard Corley, Retired Engineer and Developer: Andrew P and Angie K Corley Solar Farm in Chester County South Carolina With meager beginnings, William Edward King, my grandfather bought 127 acres of land in Chester County, South Carolina more than 90 years ago.    The land was passed down to my mother and dad with the intention to have it developed one day into something that the community could enjoy, possibly a farm, which could possibly now be fittingly a solar farm. We do not take it for granted that we have the opportunity to do something on this land, 127 acres, as we direct our attention to solar and supplying electricity to the community and also being a part of the energy revolution. We teamed up with a black solar developer, PEER Consulting who brought together a team to develop a solar farm on the land.  We reached out to our local HBCUs to see if they are interest in a workforce development program on the proposed farm.   This will be a key ingredient to the overall success of the project. We know that blacks have not been able to be a part of this energy revolution and we hope that we can use this land to not only train a new generation of young folks but also to have black folks employed in this lucrative industry, estimated to generate.

 

 

 

  • Mark Davis, Owner and Founder of WDC Solar: WDC Solar, Inc., is a minority-owned and operated solar installation Engineering, Construction and Procurement (EPC) company located in Ward 8 of Washington DC, a thriving community known as Anacostia. Since 2009, WDC Solar has been bringing solar power to low-income homes and businesses in the Washington DC area. WDC Solar, Inc. was created with the intention of providing access to solar energy to all socioeconomic classes in Washington, D.C. Ten years ago, Mark Davis, President and Founder of WDC Solar, Inc. created a low-income solar program in conjunction with the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment. The program called Solar for All, offers free solar systems to low-income residents who meet certain income requirements. The SFA program allows low- income residents to obtain a state of the art solar system at no cost to the homeowner. The program guarantees the homeowner a 50% reduction on their monthly utility bill. The money that low- income families save, can then be used for other household expenses such as food, medical bills and transportation. The program has been a tremendous success. WDC Solar has installed solar systems to over 500 homes in the District of Columbia.

 

  • Felicia Davis, Co-founder, HBCU Green Fund; Coordinator, Sustainability at Clark Atlanta University: The HBCU Green Fund is an advocate for HBCU sustainability in all aspects of that word with a focus on infrastructure and operations.  We have worked (with little success) to increase investment in HBCU energy and water retrofits.  As we all know, HBCUs are significant economic anchors and major influencers within the Black community, if there is a real or even slight commitment to equity and development of disadvantaged (under-invested) Black communities, HBCUs are the most logical vehicle and yet there is a tremendous need to build capacity and readiness.  Our major initiative is providing support for investment grade audits and this is a project that we would like DOE to support (technical and financial).  We are also working to establish a baseline calculation of the collective HBCU carbon emissions.  If I am included on the agenda I will provide brief written remarks for your review as requested.  I assume that this is being conveyed late and I wanted to get it in for consideration. We coordinated the BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue and report.  It is not our primary focus but may be of interest.  http://bipocscholars.orgI am most interested in financing for actual projects and making sure that we don’t miss the boat. HBCU Green Fund Leads the Way to Energy Efficiency on Campus with an emphasis on cutting-edge technology and community activism, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) can lead the way for American higher education institutions providing a sustainable, Earth-friendly education for their students. Relying mainly on grassroots support and crowdfunding for resources, the HBCU Green Fund will finance campus projects that cut energy and water usage—and thus, energy costs–on HBCU campuses. The Fund will, in turn, reinvest the savings it gains back into its sustainability program to finance additional projects. Our three-pronged approach will help sustain the HBCU legacy for generations to come. info@hbcugreenfund.org http://hbcugreenfund.org/about-us1/our-office/

 

 

  • Ray Douaire, Chief Executive Officer Trusted Solutions Group: Trusted Solutions Group (TSG) provides a wide range of construction services since 2002 that includes labor staffing, DC DOES First Source Solutions, and general contracting. TSG is a Washington, DC CBE, a certified airport contractor, and an SBA certified HUBZoneTSG has performed hundreds of construction projects throughout the Washington, DC Metropolitan area ranging in sizes from small projects to multimillion-dollar contracts.Turning Opportunities into Careers” The TSG mission is to recruit, train and employ people from underemployed communities in the inner city of Washington DC. TSG has been able to realize its mission having employed well over 1000 men and women who live in DC communities and HUBZones. TSG was awarded the HUBZone of the Year award by the HUBZone Contractors National Council. TSG jobs are created through its construction projects in and around Metro Washington. 3921 S. Capitol St SW Suite 3 Washington, DC 20032 202-563-3530

 

  • Ugwen I. Eneyo, Co-Founder & CEO of  SHYFT Power Solutions: SHYFT Power Solutions is an award-winning, venture-backed energy technology company that is pioneering the use of IoT, software and big data to improve access to clean, reliable and affordable energy solutions in markets that struggle with grid resiliency.As a former Stanford MS/PhD student in Civil & Environmental Engineering, Ms. Eneyo’s studies explored how we use tech to create ‘grids of the future’ but particularly in emerging markets. She’s given talks on the nexus of energy and sustainable development to global thought leaders, including the World Bank.   Read Forbes: This Entrepreneur Shines A Light On The Power Of Female Deeptech CEOs

 

 

  • Denise Gray, CEO/President of LG Chem Power, Inc. : LG Chem is one of the world’s largest makers and suppliers of automotive batteries for electric vehicles. As of 2015, Denise Gray is the CEO of the U.S. arm in Detroit, MI and has integrated their battery systems into an impressive array of cutting-edge vehicles, including the Chevrolet Bolt and Chrysler Pacifica hybrid-electric vehicles. Prior to her role as Chief of LG Chem, she had spent five years with a couple of specialty suppliers in the growing EV space and 29 years rising though General Motors on the powertrain-engineering side, eventually becoming the Director of energy-storage systems. Forbes: LG Chem Power Chief Focuses On Making EV Batteries Affordable

 

  • Paula R. Glover, President Alliance to Save Energy: Former President of American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) which is a non-profit professional association whose focus is to ensure that African Americans and other minorities have input into the discussions and development of energy policy, regulations, and environmental issues. Mrs. Glover leads a 2000-member association with 40 chapters nationwide. Prior to her current role, Ms. Glover served as the association’s Vice President of Operations and served as the organization’s Director of Communications. Ms. Glover’s experiences include 15 years in the energy industry for both electric and natural gas distribution companies. Read Forbes: AABE President & CEO Paula Glover Issues Bold Challenge To Industry To Tap Into Its Creativity

 

 

  • Johney Green Jr., Associate Laboratory Director for Mechanical and Thermal Engineering Sciences at NREL: In his role as deputy laboratory director for Science and Technology, Green is responsible for NREL’s science and research goals, strengthening the laboratory’s core capabilities, and enhancing NREL’s research portfolio. In addition, he oversees the Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program, NREL-university interactions, and the postdoctoral research program. Green’s prior leadership experience includes serving as president of the Materials Research Society, with members from more than 50 countries, in 2006. He has been a member of a number of advisory boards for the national academies, national laboratories, scientific journals, and universities. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

 

  • Mayor Johnny Ford, (World Conference of Mayors): The World Conference of Mayors, Inc. (WCM), founded and organized in April 1984, is a non-profit, non-political world conference of Mayors, Inc., (WCM). The World Conference of Mayors, Inc., is comprised of mayors, former mayors, and other elected and appointed local public officials. OUR MISSION: A combination of technical assistance, professional governmental training and dedication. The World Conference of Mayors, Inc. has been a crucial facilitator for collaboration and promotion.

 

 

  • Kristal Hansley, President of WeSolar Energy: WeSolar’s mission is to bring under-resourced communities affordable access to local community solar and to assist commercial properties with energy efficiency. WeSolar launched in Baltimore and will expand to other cities in the future. Through WeSolar, electricity consumers can purchase shared solar from a local project without having to install any equipment in their homes. In turn, residents save hundreds on their electricity bills. In Maryland, lawmakers passed legislation that states 50 percent of its electricity must come from renewable energy sources by 2030. The CEO, Kristal Hansley, and her team are disrupters who advocate that communities of color and low-income communities be included in this shift and have a healthy environment in the future. blackenterprise.com

 

  • Lisa Jackson, P. of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives at Apple, former EPA Administrator: Lisa Jackson was the first African American woman to serve as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, serving under President Obama from 2009 to 2013. She worked to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, take action on climate change, and expand outreach to various communities on environmental education. Now, as Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives at Apple, she works to decrease Apple’s environmental footprint by advancing renewable energy and energy efficiency and promoting more sustainable processes. Jackson has a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Princeton University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Tulane University.

 

 

  • Ellsworth James is the managing director of JVJ Consulting Group, A U.S conglomerate with companies in Project Management, Renewable Energy, and Solar Power Generation and Research.The following is a list of current Energy Sector Projects, Economic Development and Renewable Energy Minority-owned renewable energy power plants were established in Alabama and Mississippi.

The Gateway Energy Group has established in Green County Alabama.

A 3000 ton per day renewable energy facility is being developed on the Tom Bigbie River. This plant will generate p to 95 megawatts (MW) gross of electricity, enough to power the equivalent of more than 55,000 homes.  This plant will employ a Zero Waste methodology for a state-of-the-art recycling facility capable of eliminating or reusing 80% of the municipal solid waste currently going to landfills.  The renewable energy power and recycling plant will provide 800 permanent full-time jobs and return 6M to the local business community. The project budget is currently set at $485M and is projected to generate up to 18M annually by year 3.

The DMEG was established in the Mississippi Delta near the Mississippi River in Rosedale.

A mirror of the Alabama plant will take in 3000 tons per day and is being developed near the Mississippi River.  This plant will generate up to 95 megawatts (MW) gross electricity through waste to energy and an additional 200 MW through a second-generation solar technology radiant energy utility station.  This plant will also employ a Zero Waste methodology for a state-of-the-art recycling facility capable of eliminating or reusing 80% of the municipal solid waste currently going to landfills.  The renewable energy power and recycling plant will provide 1200 permanent full-time jobs in the combined waste to energy and solar power plant and return 8 to 10M annually to the local business community for supplies and services. The project budget is currently set at $785M and is projected to generate 25 to 30M annually.

 

 

  • Efrem Jernigan, Organization (South Union CDC, Houston, TX): The South Union Community Development Corporation is a 501c3 non-profit organization established to help develop the South Union community and surrounding areas of Houston. Our mission is to “sow seeds of success” into youth through exposure to science, technology, engineering and math careers and seniors through fellowship, food, fun and fitness. Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Architecture, Agriculture and Math related professionals, speakers, presenters and instructors for our Saturday program titled. The STEM Foundation. Sunnyside 70 MW Solar Farm Project.

 

 

  • Mayor Darryl Johnson, Historic Black Towns and Settlements: The mission of the Historic Black Towns and Settlements Alliance, Inc. (HBTS) is to work collaboratively to actively preserve and promote the heritage, history and culture of these historic places by utilizing their human, environmental, built, arts, and humanities resources to nurture economic development and to support an enhanced quality of life for their residents, neighbors and fellow Americans. A group of America’s most representative historic Black towns and settlements, each more than one hundred years old, have formed an alliance (HBTS) to leverage historic preservation to protect their respective communities, educate their residents and the public at large, and generate economic development individually and collectively: Tuskegee, Macon County, Alabama (Mayor Johnny Ford) – c.1833, settled; incorporated 1843; 181 years Grambling, Lincoln Parish, Louisiana (Mayor Ed Jones) – settled c.1865; incorporated 1953; 149 years Hobson City, Calhoun County, Alabama (Mayor Alberta McCrory) – settled c.1865; incorporated 1899 – 149 yrs Eatonville, Orange County, Florida (Mayor Bruce Mount) – settled 1881; incorporated 1887; 125 yrs Mound Bayou, Bolivar County, Mississippi (Mayor Darryl Johnson) – settled c.1887; incorporated 1898; 116 years Since April 1, 2014 the mayors of each town have completed the following: •Weekly conference calls for coordination, planning, and information updates. • Each town is recruiting and appointing local residents to serve on respective historic preservation committees. • Site visits to Tuskegee and Mound Bayou. The mayors will visit Hobson City for its 115 Founders Day celebration between August 14 and 17. A visit is scheduled to Grambling for Constitution Day activities to be held September 14-16, 2014. • Five major collaborative historic preservation grants have been prepared for the HBTS since April.

 

  • Van Jones, President & Co-Founder of Dream Corps: Green for All: Dream Corps: Green for All is a national NGO that uplifts the voices of low-income families and people of color in the climate movement through empathy-based communications and storytelling. They advocate for strong, resilient, and healthy neighborhoods through policy work that ensures that as the clean economy grows, it brings good jobs, better health, and opportunity to underserved communities. As part of the Clean Energy Corps Working Group, Green for All launched a campaign for a Clean Energy Corps initiative which would create 600,000 ‘green-collar’ jobs while retrofitting and upgrading more than 15 million American buildings. Van Jones is a social entrepreneur, best-selling author, CNN political contributor and host of The Van Jones Show on CNN. He was appointed the green jobs advisor to President Barack Obama in 2009, where he helped run the inter-agency process that oversaw $80 billion in green energy recovery spending.

 

 

  • John Wainaina Karanja, President of Melanin Solar: Melanin Solar, is driving sustainable energy access across Africa, through our Blockchain based distributed solar energy solution called the Melanin Smart Box(MSBX); This MSBX solution will enable efficient solar microgrid eco-systems to be deployed across our target markets. Through our Melanin Academy which is hosted at BitHub Africa our Blockchain hub in Nairobi, Melanin Solar targets to train 2,000 Blockchain Engineers who will contribute to the development and deployment of Melanin Solar and other solutions. Melanin Solar enables communities to produce their own solar energy for consumption and sell excess energy through a peer-to-peer model to under-served neighbors. This will enable the deployment and distribution of efficient solar micro-grid eco-systems across Africa.We are doing this by building out Africa’s distributed solar energy infrastructure which includes a set of tools, protocols and applications. At the same time through our Academy we intend to reduce the huge shortage of engineers; who can be leveraged to develop, deploy and maintain our solution across Africa which has a high pool of potential talent with its huge youthful population.

 

  • Ed Love, President of Alternative Lighting & Power Houston, Texas: At the highest quality, AL&P delivers state of the art, innovative and dependable solar, wind, indoor/outdoor architectural lighting and power generating products and systems.  From the initial customer consultation to the final system commissioning and post installation analysis, we are focused. Our innovative systems, technical expertise, and commitment to client satisfaction make us a great choice in lighting, power, solar and wind integrators for a broad customer base.  AL&P raises the bar for industry standards by opening doors for the artistic side of function by pursuing relationships with companies from around the world by posing the question, “What If?” AL&P partners with top quality manufacturers of products worldwide whose workmanship goes above and beyond industry standards to ensure our customers receive the very best in the technologies we offer. info@alternativel-p.com www.alternativel-p.com 832–356-4660

 

 

  • Jessica O. Matthews, Founder and CEO of  Uncharted Power : Uncharted Power is apower access company, paving the way for smart and sustainable infrastructure development. The Uncharted System specializes in creating a resilient, upgradable, and cost-effective “Internet for Decentralized Energy” by connecting energy sources and applications like sensors, edge devices, and ICT hardware right under our feet. Uncharted Power has raised $7 million, the largest Series A ever raised by a black female founder. Jessica is not only founder and CEO but CTO, too, as well as a multiple patent holder for the software stack, hardware elements, mesh design, and AI-based protocols inside the MORE (Motion-based, Off-grid, Renewable Energy) technology. Read Forbes: Uncharted    Power Founder Jessica O. Matthews On Building The Anti-Silicon Valley Energy Startup

 

  • Congressman A. Donald McEachin | Representing the 4th … house.gov: Jurisdiction includes: National energy policy; fossil energy; renewable energy; nuclear energy; nuclear facilities; the Department of Energy; the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; synthetic and alternative fuels; energy conservation; energy information; energy security; utility issues; interstate energy compacts; energy generation, marketing, reliability, transmission, siting, exploration, production, consumption, efficiency, cybersecurity, and ratemaking for all generated power;  , including pipeline safety aspects as they relate to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration; all laws, programs, and government activities affecting energy matters; environmental justice as it relates to the above-referenced jurisdiction ; and  all aspects of the above-referenced jurisdiction related to the Department of Homeland Security.

 

 

  • Rose McKinney and James Mc Kinney James & Associates Managing Principal Energy Works Consulting LLC: Rose McKinney-James is a long-term advocate for clean energy and climate policy. She is the former CEO of the Corporation for Solar Technology and Renewable Resources (CSTRR), a former Commissioner with the Nevada Public Service Commission, and Nevada’s first Director of the Department of Business and Industry. She is the Managing Principal of Energy Works LLC, McKinney-James & Associates and Advocacy BL/ACK. Her firms provide consulting services in legislative advocacy and strategy in public affairs, clean energy policy, sustainable development and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is a member of the Board of MGM Resorts International, Toyota Financial Services Bank and CLEAResult. Ms. McKinney-James also serves as the Board Chair of the Energy Foundation and is the immediate Past Chair of the American Association for Blacks in Energy (AABE).

 

 

 

 

  • Jacqueline Patterson, Director of the NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Program: has led the NAACP’sPower to the People campaign which cites the disproportionate exposure of African American children to coal plants and higher average costs that Black households pay for energy services as motivations to transition away from the fossil fuel industry. Since 2007 she has also served as coordinator & co-founder of Women of Color United. Jacqui Patterson has worked as a researcher, program manager, coordinator, advocate and activist working on women‘s rights, violence against women, HIV&AIDS, racial justice, economic justice, and environmental and climate justice. Power to the People campaign

 

 

 

  • Tony G. Reames, Director of the Urban Energy Justice Lab: The Urban Energy Justice (UEJ) Lab at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (UM SEAS) was established in 2015 to study energy-related topics through a justice lens, primarily in an urban context. Their research focuses on the production and persistence of spatial, racial, and socioeconomic disparities in accessibility and affordability of energy services, technology, and programs. UEJ provides grants, invests in renewable energy projects, and has a service-learning program that gives college students from around the country the opportunity to spend their vacation week installing solar in underserved communities. Dr. Tony Reames is an assistant professor for Climate + Energy at the UM SEAS. His research agenda seeks to connect the areas of technological advancement, the policy process, and social equity. His research extends the environmental justice scholarship to focus on energy justice. He is currently exploring disparities in residential energy generation, consumption, and affordability- focusing on the production and persistence of inequality by race, class, and place. Read: Energy access is not created equal. This Ann Arbor organization is trying to change that.

 

  • Jerome Ringo President of Zoetic Hydrokinetic Technology Washington DC: A leader in impactful solutions targeting energy, water, food security and healthcare. Zoetic is the culmination of Mr. Ringo’s dedication to promote sustainable development through the use of clean technology solution. He is an internationally recognized thought leader on global environmental issues and has led two of the largest environmental organizations in the world, the 6-million-member National Wildlife Federation and the Apollo Alliance, which was a 19 million member organization during his tenure. As climate change has moved front and center into the public consciousness, Mr. Ringo offers a unique perspective based on his years in the oil and gas industry, environmental advocacy and now renewable energy development. He has participated in climate talks from the start and has provided testimony to the US Congress and addressed leadership at the UN and the African Union. Of critical importance is the inclusion of developing nations in all climate discussions as Africa suffers a disproportionate impact from climate change. Mr. Ringo is the Goodwill Ambassador to the Pan-African Parliament for Trade and Investment, he attended the CFTA (Continent Free Trade Area) signing, and aided the country of Sudan in the lifting of sanctions. ambassadorringo@gmail.com www.zoeticglobal.com 202- 821-1836

 

 

  • Congressman Bobby Rush rush.house.gov: Chairman: United States Representative Bobby L. Rush is a transcendent and influential American leader who keeps his legislative and policy interests focused on the needs of his constituents in the 1st Congressional District of Illinois, with an emphasis on the most vulnerable and the communities that feel left behind.  He believes deeply in the redemptive power of the human spirit and in human ingenuity and tenacity.  In office since 1993, Rush stands on the shoulders of a long line of patriots and public servants who have gone before him and who are ardent believers in our Constitution.  His life is an example of our nation’s fundamental promise and his work reflects a deep determination to bend the arc of government resources and innovation towards the needs of every American — whether they live on our nation’s main streets or its side streets.  Rush fights every day for his constituents; to improve their lives, grow the economy, bring jobs to the district, and build a stronger middle class. Chicago and its surrounding communities are a snapshot of the diversity that is found across America.  While large parts of Rush’s district include communities that house world-class health and educational institutions and a diverse array of businesses, there are others where youth unemployment and acts of violence are far too common.  Rush has focused on providing a public policy approach to creating jobs, tackling gun violence, and making communities safer.  Rush is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army and an ordained minister with a Master’sDegree in Theology.  Rush has honorary doctorate degrees from the Virginia University of Lynchburg, Roosevelt University, and the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT).  In addition to his Congressional responsibilities, Rush is the pastor of the Beloved Community Christian Church of God in Christ in Chicago.  Rush listens to his constituents with a pastor’s ear and acts on their needs through hard work, empathy, and a commitment to public service. Rush was married to the late Carolyn Rush for 37 years and recently married Minister Evangelist Paulette Rush. Energy and Commerce Committee Leaders Introduce Bipartisan Solutions to Enhance Cybersecurity for U.S. Energy Infrastructure

 

  • Al Sharpton, President /CEO National Action Network: National Action Network: Is one of the leading civil rights organizations in the Nation with chapters throughout the entire United States. Founded in 1991 by Reverend Al Sharpton, NAN works within the spirit and tradition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to promote a modern civil rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of justice, decency and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, citizenship, criminal record, economic status, gender, gender expression, or sexuality. NAN platform which address the following issues: Criminal Justice Reform, Police Accountability, Crisis Intake & Victims Assistance, Voting Rights, Corporate Responsibility & Pension Diversity, Youth Leadership, and Bridging The Digital Divide.

 

  • Daanen Strachan, PhD President and CEO Alternatives Renewable Solutions, LLC: Alternatives Renewable Solutions, LLC (ARS Energy): Is a minority-owned, renewable energy systems integration company headquartered in Washington, DC. As a utility services provider, we design, install, and maintain the highest performing energy systems in the industry. Our services include the financing, design, and construction of solar photovoltaic (PV), solar thermal, greywater recycling, porous asphalt pavement, and rain harvesting systems. ARS Energy provides maintenance and monitoring services to meet our clients’ production goals and sells solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs). As a proud member of the Maryland-District of Columbia-Virginia Solar Energy Industries Association (MDV-SEIA), ARS Energy is dedicated to providing the Airports Authority safe and effective products and accurate information about our services. http://www.ars-energy.net 1725 I Street, NW, Suite 3 email: daanens@arsconsulting.net 1800- 759 -7813 Managing Pattern Washington, DC 20006 3196 Westover Drive SE, Washington, DC 20020 202- 909-6790

 

  • Robert L. Wallace President and Founder: Bithenergy: Is an award-winning energy engineering and technical services consulting firm that maximizes the business value and efficiency of each unit of energy produced and consumed. We offer our government and corporate clients intelligent strategies, advanced information systems, innovative technologies, full implementation services for managing energy consumption, smart grid infrastructure build-outs and the development of renewable energy systems. Bithenergy has successfully developed, financed and integrated over 33MW of solar projects both nationally and internationally. Under the project development group, Bithenergy provides services in renewable energy financing, construction financing, PPA negotiations and Debt/Equity structures for multi-megawatt utility-scale projects. Bithenergy’s national network of contractors consists of over 50 strategic partnerships, joint ventures and teaming arrangements that encompass a range of services. Bithenergy’s projects demonstrate our strong financial stability, proven solar technological solutions, effective design and construction practices with established project management talent and methodologies. Located 113 West Monument Street info@bithenergy.com bithenergy.com 410-962-1188 x27 Baltimore, Maryland 21201’

 

  • Carmen J. Walters: …………………………… Need for HBCU solar project funding by hiring Black Owned Solar, Engineering, and job training resources.

 

  • Christian Warren – Founder, Chief Executive Officer Bio and Mark Randall – Founder, Chief Operating Officer – Midflare Cooperation: Was founded in 2009 and is a minority certified renewable energy company based in Atlanta, GA. As a commercial and utility-scale solar project developer, we provide clean electricity to mid-market companies and large energy buyers, as well as utilities info@midflare.com

 

  • Venus Welch-White, PhD, National Rural Energy Program Specialist USDA Rural Energy Business -Cooperative Services Energy Division: To assist rural communities in creating prosperity so they are self-sustaining and economically thriving through investments that create ladders of opportunity, build regional resilience, and support the growth of emerging markets. cell 202-768- 0590 office 202-720-0400 welchwhite@wdc.usda.gov

 

  • Cora Williams, President & CEO Ideal Electrical Supply: Ideal Electrical Supply Corporation is a privately-owned corporation established in 1991 as a full-service wholesale electrical distributor for complete lines of electrical, lighting, industrial, data and telecommunications networking products, wire and cable, tools and safety equipment. Ideal Electric is 100% owned and operated by its founders, Cora Williams, President and Ken Rogers EVP (Ret.), Member, Board of Directors. Ideal Electric has over 25 years of direct experience in MRO type contract support. We have established long-term relationships and contracts with major utilities whose MRO support requirements are critical to the ongoing operation of services on which clients depend. These companies include utilities such as Exelon Corporation, First Energy, PSEG, Baltimore Gas & Electric, Potomac Electric Power Company, Washington Gas, Southern Company and SMECO. We understand mission critical requirements. Ideal is constantly working within the distribution industry to gain access to information, training, and resources necessary to maintain the highest standard of customer satisfaction with the delivery of supplier services. Ideal Electric is located in Washington, DC with satellite offices in Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA. We have a 25,000sf distribution center at the headquarters location in Washington DC. Our success has come by finding and servicing niche customers who need special attention and handling. In addition to being a one-stop shop for most of our customers, we have also become our customers’ problem solver for many supply chain issues. We are an active member in several professional organizations such as, the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED), the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) and the Utility Supply Management Alliance (USMA). 3515 V Street N.E. Washington DC20018 www.idealelectric.com O:202-526-7500 ext.100 202-271-8841

Copyrighted:  June 4,2021 All Rights Reserved:  National Association of Blacks in Solar (NABS)