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In this newsletter, we are spotlighting PSEF’s Capacity Building Programs and announcing…

* the application period is open for the next cohort of MSCL Fellows*

* the application period is open for the next round of CBSC and SLIC Programs*


Greetings PSEF Members,


This season marks an important time for PSEF as we reflect on the successful conclusion of our second MSCL cohort  and first round of CBSC and SLIC programs. We’re now opening the doors for applications for all three of our capacity building programs MSCL, CBSC and SLIC programs.


We invite you to join us in these reflections and celebrations as we continue our journey towards energy democracy and sustainability.


In the meantime and as always, we welcome your input and ask that you share anything that may be on your radar for us to include in the next newsletter. You can do so here.

Programs

Communities of Color Building Solar Capacity

Engaging Communities, Building Connections


In September 2023, we launched our Communities of Color Building Solar Capacity (CBSC) program, an initiative that aims to advance environmental, economic, and community resilience while mobilizing communities of color toward solar development. In this first year of CBSC, we brought together 12 community-based organizations (CBOs) across 10 states, with about half of the participants being PSEF members or affiliates. Among our CBOs are community development corporations, solar developers, environmental justice advocates, law groups, and faith-based organizations – all of which are represented by and serve communities of color.


Thus far, we have successfully aided approximately 50% of our participant organizations in engaging their communities in community-owned solar education events, with attendance ranging from 40 to 200 people (depending on location), with the remaining participants preparing to launch their community education programs in the near future. Their efforts in community education have been supported by the development of PSEF’s “Introduction to Community-Owned Solar” curriculum, for which a 101 Course consisting of three modules has been created. Read the complete blog post here.


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Movement for Solar Capacity & Leadership (MSCL) Cohort #2

The Movement for Solar Capacity and Leadership (MSCL) is making strides in community empowerment with its second cohort, advancing the mission to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to spearhead solar projects in their communities. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in equitable access to clean energy, providing a platform for amplifying voices, fostering collaboration, and driving tangible change in the fight against climate change.


This year marks a significant expansion for MSCL, growing from 10 to 30 fellows in response to the escalating demand for equitable clean energy solutions. Participants from across the United States convened in Durham, North Carolina, a city renowned for its legacy of resilience and innovation. The program focused on community solar initiatives and federal climate programs, emphasizing the intersection of climate, racial, and economic justice. The rich heritage of Durham served as a backdrop for the fellows as they explored sustainable practices.


Central to the MSCL experience is the "each-one teach-one" approach. Fellows, representing a diverse array of backgrounds including non-profits, NAACP chapters, and grassroots organizations, shared their knowledge and experiences to empower their communities. Weekly Zoom seminars with experts facilitated dynamic discussions and strategic collaborations, reinforcing the program's collaborative spirit. Read the complete blog post here.


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For more information on our MSCL, CBSC and SLIC programs register for an info session by scanning the QR code above or by clicking HERE.


PSEF Announcements

Membership Growth

We are excited to welcome a new member to the PSEF Membership: Together New Orleans. Together New Orleans' vision is to build the nation's largest network of solar + storage resilience hubs at churches and community centers across south Louisiana. As of June 2024, they have 13 community lighthouses in operation and under construction that are planned to be the beacons in the community that will provide charging and cooling stations, lights, food and other vital resources and information when the power goes out.

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Welcoming New Board Officers

We are pleased to announce the appointment of our new Board Officers.  During the  July 2nd Board Meeting,  Amy Bettle and Ali Andrews were appointed as Board Co-Chairs; Jim Johnson was appointed as Board Treasurer and Stephanie Johnson was appointed as Board Secretary. Their wealth of experience and dedication to our mission will undoubtedly steer us towards continued success. Please join us in congratulating them on their new positions and wishing them the best in their endeavors.

Hiring

PSEF Open Positions

PSEF is hiring! Please share the following position with your networks.

PSEF is recruiting for a passionate and creative Membership Services Coordinator who will act as the primary liaison between PSEF Members, the Board and Staff and will engage deeply with our members, manage member services, and oversee the new member orientation process. Click here to learn more and apply!


Job Openings in the Network

Resources & Upcoming Events


Clean Energy Tax Navigator

Lawyers for Good Government (L4GG) is launching the Clean Energy Tax Navigator on July 17th, designed to help organizations navigate the Investment Tax Credit, bonus adders and other  tax-related questions. For more in-depth questions, L4GG provides pro-bono office hours.


Looking for Engaging Energy Democracy Resources?

Following deep collaboration between grassroots organizing groups, The Reimagined Energy for Our Communities US (REFOCUS) Campaign of the Energy Democracy Project, developed the REFOCUS Zine. The REFOCUS Zine is a  tool for anyone interested in organizing around energy and can be used to help talk to your community about why community-owned energy projects matter.


If you are interested in using the REFOCUS Zine at your organizing events, please reach out to Selena Feliciano to access the Zine Facilitation Guide. PSEF will coordinate with the Energy Democracy Project to host Energy Democracy TA & training sessions.


Lessons Learned From Boston

Energy Allies recently shared their Lessons Learned from their first community-led solar project in Boston, MA. The document includes how Energy Allies got started with that work, how they engaged with community members from the start and the challenges they faced with siting and keeping the community engaged throughout the process.


Black Liberation and Just Transition Certification Program

The Chisholm Legacy Project launched its Black Liberation and Just Transition Certification Program, a transformative initiative that prepares participants to lead climate justice efforts using the Just Transition framework.


Institute for Local Self Reliance (ILSR) Report

ILSR  has published a comprehensive report, Advantage Local: Why Local Energy Ownership Matters, highlighting the importance of local energy ownership. This document delves into the fundamentals of local clean energy ownership, emphasizing its significance and outlining key benefits. It also addresses the barriers to ownership and offers strategies to overcome these challenges.