40 Inland Empire high school students received hands-on training and helped install rooftop solar electric systems on four affordable homes over two days as part of the Solar Futures program, a national philanthropic partnership to provide classroom and hands-on solar education to K-14 students and connect them with careers in America’s booming solar industry.
GRID Alternatives, America’s largest non-profit solar installer, partnered with global solar innovator SunPower earlier this year to launch the program, expanding on trainings GRID has offered to California high schools since 2010. SunPower committed one megawatt of high-efficiency solar panels and inverters – enough to power 300 homes – to underwrite the program and support GRID’s work providing solar power to underserved communities.
“Solar can unlock our clean energy future while STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education can open up exciting career paths for our youth. Together, they’re a powerful combination, which is why SunPower actively supports solar education initiatives around the world,” said Bobby Ram, SunPower managing director. “We’re proud to partner with GRID Alternatives on the Solar Futures program to create real change by connecting students to one of America’s fastest-growing industries and helping them strengthen their communities.”
During the two-day event, students from Arroyo Valley High School, Norte Vista High School, Desert Hot Springs High School, Kaiser High School, and Canyon Springs High School will install SunPower solar panels on four new Habitat for Humanity homes, saving incoming families an estimated $27,500 each in lifetime electricity costs and preventing a combined total of 227 tons harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Students will also participate in a career panel with SunPower, GRID Alternatives staff, and local specialists to learn about solar careers.
“Combining renewable energy with workforce development is a double win for our communities,” said Bambi Tran, GRID Alternatives Inland Empire regional director. “This educational model has created a brighter future for hundreds of students and homeowners, and we’re thrilled to expand nationally with the help of SunPower.”
Program offerings in the Inland Empire region include hands-on installation opportunities for high school juniors and seniors combined with a five-session classroom education program covering topics from general industry trends and concepts to solar design and outreach. Schools interested in learning more about the program can visit www.gridalternatives.org/solarfutures.
