GRID Alternatives, America’s largest nonprofit solar installer, today announced a major solar panel donation from Tesla that will support solar power for an estimated 150 low-income households across the country. The 569 kW of donated equipment will also unlock 15,000 hours of hands-on job training through GRID’s unique community participation model.
“Solar power has so many benefits for disadvantaged communities. It reduces pollution, helps financially strapped families live more affordably in their homes, and provides career opportunities for people who need good jobs,” said Erica Mackie, CEO and co-founder of GRID Alternatives. “Achieving a transition to clean energy takes all of us, and we’re grateful for Tesla’s contribution to this work.”
The donation will help expand access to clean energy, supporting GRID’s mission to make solar accessible in communities that need the energy savings the most, yet have the least access. In addition to the philanthropic partnership, GRID Alternatives also works with Tesla to connect participants in GRID’s installation training programs to job openings at the company.
The solar panel donation was announced at the installation of a 2.6 kW array on the home of Naomi Green in Paramount, California, in the district of California Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon. Trainees from Homeboy Industries, a nonprofit that provides hope, training, and support to formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women, participated in the installation.
