Solar Energy – Myths, Misconceptions, and Breakthroughs
Although solar is one of the best renewable energy options available, there are many myths and misconceptions that prevent people from fully utilizing this valuable resource
Although solar is one of the best renewable energy options available, there are many myths and misconceptions that prevent people from fully utilizing this valuable resource
While it is a well-known fact that solar is a sustainable and cost-effective energy source, it can be especially impactful for disadvantaged communities. Residents in lower to middle-income neighborhoods pay a disproportionate amount of their income towards energy costs, are exposed to lower air quality, and have limited economic opportunities. However, beyond the benefits of …
Millions of lower-income Americans have been unable to take advantage of solar, but they need the benefits of clean energy now more than ever. Lower-income households spend an average of 8.2 percent of their income on energy bills — about three times more than moderate- to high-income households. Black and brown people are disproportionately exposed to environmental …
There comes a moment in history when society has both an opportunity and an obligation to act. As we finally acknowledge the wrongs committed against people of color, the time to act is now. And nowhere are those injustices more evident than as it pertains to environmental policies. Black and brown people are disproportionately exposed …
Illinois passed historic legislation in 2021, putting them on the path toward 100% clean energy. The Climate and Equitable Jobs Act could be a blueprint for other states. As Illinois is one of the top five coal producers in the U.S., its plan to move away from fossil fuels is ambitious. However, the provisions in …
The HBCU Clean Energy Initiative celebrates the passing of the historic Inflation Reduction Act with over 360B designated for clean energy investments. While much of the money is allocated towards broad change at an industry level, like building more solar and wind power, there are three ways the bill incentivizes consumers to make greener choices. …
The recently passed legislation known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act could have far-reaching positive effects on lower-income families. The bill allocates an estimated 1.2 trillion dollars to improve roads, bridges, transportation, green energy, water management, internet access, and jobs. However, what does that mean for people living in neighborhoods and cities that have …
How New Infrastructure Bill Can Increase Environmental Equity Read More »
According to EPA.gov, “Environmental justice (EJ) is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income for the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.” And while that’s an admirable goal being pursued, unfortunately, it is not the reality yet. One example is that …
How GRID Alternatives’ Energy is Increasing Environmental Justice Read More »
Helping HBCUs Make Campuses More Energy Efficient as reported in Prism Reports With the consequences of climate change growing more dire every year, the need to remove barriers to environmentally-sustainable lifestyles has become increasingly urgent, especially for Black people. As the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report details, sea levels will continue to rise …
As discussed in our previous blog, The Clean Energy Initiative CEI recently participated in the Greensboro Solar Cares Conference in North Carolina. Stakeholders were convened, such as community leaders, residents, and local and federal government representatives, to continue conversations on advancing environmental and economic equity through residential clean energy programs. As Henry Golatt (Co-director of …
Greensboro Homeowners Share Their Own Solar Savings Stories Read More »