Category: Clean Energy

I think there is constantly a shock when people discover who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, people simply cant think it. Putting people in spaces together so everyone can share notes is always important. We are also always willing to host people if they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host people as soon as a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were using in communities that historically have not had access.

Show us a recent success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be developing a $30 million, totally economical and completely sustainable advancement, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are constructing 50 residential units, a cafe, a business center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered usage in the city
.
What impact are you making?
I believe there is constantly a shock when individuals discover who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, people just cant believe it. To me, thats quite gratifying. Individuals seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is crucial is we have a financial impact that resonates with people, and its a quite powerful message. That quantity of cash impacts the budget of everyday households
.
What obstacles do you face? Why?
You cant avoid the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning a company, any organization, was going to be difficult. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly hard. When I go to banks and say that were building sustainable housing in low- and moderate-income communities, they take a look at me like Ive spoken the incorrect language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks do not wish to invest; they do not want to partner; they dont wish to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im trying to battle here, and weve made extremely little, incremental progress. I believe the lesson is that union structure is important. My voice only indicates so much, but the more I can bring buddies to the table and amplify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the need
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the third installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment includes market leaders and subjects related to accelerating a fair and simply shift to a renewable resource economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are prospering in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a finance, sales, and capital markets expert with more than a decade of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and realty analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his knowledge and track record of developing constant returns with a personal enthusiasm for assisting transform communities and their influence on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his impact on Americas shift to a clean economy.
LEARNT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to start your company?
I had 2 pivotal minutes that made me leap. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas costs, and she was only making ten dollars an hour, so we couldnt pay for the gas costs. A lot of individuals have comparable anecdotes, and thats not a good thing
.
The second essential minute was probably 15 years ago, as I was working for a firm that was buying a host of things around the world. Individuals were coming in to request an investment around renewable resource, and I postured a question to them: “What you are finishing with these solar firms is incredible, and the cost of solar is boiling down, however how does that aid everyday people?” I asked, “Where are they in your formula? Where is their access? They are paying an out of proportion amount of their earnings on energy.” They looked confused that I would even attempt inquire about the everyday people. They stated, “Well, you understand, low- and moderate-income families often live in multi-family structures, and it is tough to get in contact with those constructing owners. If you can not get in contact with the structure owners, you need to contact private families and the cost of getting those people informed and after that signing up for renewable resource is not a beneficial service model.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the real estate development and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to change the marketplace permanently. So I stopped my job. I believe I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that discussion, and I began my company. I named it 548 Capital because that is the system number in the general public real estate where I grew up. Everything is I do is targeted to households in those situations and focused on enhancing their quality of life
.

What can organizations like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting people in spaces together so everybody can share notes is constantly valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a chance to speak straight with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is magnificent. If there are national corporations that can support our work that can also be a big offer. Were presently working on a partnership with Lowes, which is contributing about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our tasks. Normalizing exposure, standing beside us and stating “these neighborhoods are deserving of financial investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can prospective partners work with you?
Today, we are Chicago-focused. We are constantly looking for partners to invest, offer financial obligation or buy some tax credits, thats the first ask. If they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities, we are likewise constantly willing to host individuals. This is not exclusive; its an open book. We host individuals once a week at our structure so they can see the technology that were applying in neighborhoods that traditionally have not had access. We are also going to be expanding our board. Because I think that has genuine value, Im constantly difficult top executives to put their name and face on these efforts
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been terrific just to meet the other Accelerate member companies. I learned a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and discovering people with totally different point of views. I like the networking.
I think we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Simply knowing that it exists, which ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a huge distinction.
###.

Inform us about your company? (objective, partners, regions you run in, primary customers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable technologies available for all: all neighborhoods, all households, everybody needs to have access. Somebody, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those innovations reach everybody.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring innovative innovations and advanced structure strategies to the renewable energy market. I want to decrease the amount of green space utilized to support the development of renewable energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to shape the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge eco-friendly energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. And we believe energy self-reliance is the essential to green development.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the second installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installment will feature industry leaders and subjects associated with accelerating an equitable and just transition to a renewable resource economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member business are thriving in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned renewable resource business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists utilities, governments and co-ops incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your business?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced structure methods to the renewable energy industry. I desire to decrease the amount of green space utilized to support the growth of eco-friendly energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. I established this business after working for a couple of big energies and recognizing that the old design will not get us to where we need to be as a nation.
How are you making an effect through your business?
We are changing the way federal governments, co-ops and energies think of powering the future of this great nation. We purchase finding and utilizing tested, emerging technologies from around the globe that can be used to power today and the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to clean energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our capability to form the nation each and every day.
Inform us about your business?
Sole Trader is a varied, professional, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and maintenance. Our group of energy specialists helps us reduce building costs and timelines for our clients. We can likewise offer consulting and strategic planning services, site recognition and preparation, construction, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, site start-up or shutdown, and so much more.
Is there anything else you would like to share with ACORE members and partners?
We embrace opportunities to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our extensive lessons learned and our tested brand-new technologies. And we think energy self-reliance is the key to green growth.
To discover more about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
###.

I think there is constantly a shock when people discover who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant think it. Putting people in rooms together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. We are likewise always prepared to host people if they want to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. We host individuals once a week at our structure so they can see the technology that were using in neighborhoods that traditionally havent had gain access to.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the third installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation features market leaders and topics associated with speeding up a fair and simply transition to a renewable resource economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are thriving in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a finance, sales, and capital markets professional with more than a decade of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and property analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his knowledge and track record of producing consistent returns with a personal enthusiasm for assisting change communities and their effect on the world. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his impact on Americas shift to a tidy economy.
LEARNT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to start your company?
I had two pivotal moments that made me leap. In 1999, my mom got a $400 gas expense, and she was just making ten bucks an hour, so we could not afford the gas bill. Therefore, unfortunately, we had our gas and heat shut down. For approximately a year in my teens, we had to boil water and carry it as much as a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were distinctively difficult times, and experiences like that just stick with you. I do not care what happens the rest of your profession or what your lifestyle is moving forward; those minutes are with you forever. As I talk about that with various groups around the nation, it has actually become clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A great deal of individuals have similar anecdotes, whichs not a good thing
.
They looked confused that I would even attempt ask about the everyday people. I believe I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that conversation, and I started my company. I named it 548 Capital because that is the system number in the public housing where I grew up.

Share with us a current success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be building a $30 million, completely budget-friendly and completely sustainable development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are building 50 property units, a cafe, a company center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered usage in the city
.
What effect are you making?
I believe there is always a shock when individuals learn who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant think it.
The other thing that I think is important is we have a financial impact that resonates with people, and its a pretty effective message. That quantity of cash impacts the budget plan of daily households
.
What difficulties do you deal with? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting an organization, any business, was going to be tough. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly challenging. When I go to banks and say that were building sustainable housing in low- and moderate-income communities, they look at me like Ive spoken the incorrect language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks dont wish to invest; they do not wish to partner; they dont want to do their share. It is a fight of generational size that Im attempting to fight here, and weve made really little, incremental progress. I think the lesson is that coalition structure is necessary. My voice just suggests so much, however the more I can bring good friends to the table and magnify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

Tell us about your business? (mission, partners, regions you operate in, primary consumers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations accessible for all: all communities, all families, everyone ought to have gain access to. Somebody, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those technologies reach everybody.

What can companies like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting individuals in spaces together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. Stabilizing exposure, standing next to us and saying “these communities are worthwhile of investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can prospective partners work with you?
We are also constantly willing to host people if they want to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host individuals as soon as a week at our structure so they can see the innovation that were using in communities that historically havent had gain access to. Im constantly challenging leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts since I think that has genuine worth
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been fantastic simply to meet the other Accelerate member business. I learned a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and discovering individuals with totally various viewpoints. I enjoy the networking.
I believe we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Just understanding that it exists, and that ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a huge distinction.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced structure strategies to the eco-friendly energy market. I want to minimize the quantity of green area used to support the growth of eco-friendly energy around the world and aid bring our market into the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to shape the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and upkeep. And we think energy self-reliance is the key to green growth.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the 2nd installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation will include market leaders and topics associated with speeding up a fair and just transition to a sustainable energy economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are thriving in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned renewable resource business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists governments, co-ops and utilities incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your business?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building techniques to the eco-friendly energy industry. I wish to decrease the amount of green area utilized to support the growth of renewable energy worldwide and aid bring our market into the future. I founded this business after working for a couple of large energies and understanding that the old design will not get us to where we need to be as a country. We need vibrant, unencumbered thought that embraces the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein stated, “Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you all over.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an impact through your company?
We are altering the way co-ops, utilities and governments consider powering the future of this great nation. We buy finding and making use of tested, emerging technologies from all over the world that can be utilized to power the present and the future. Sole Trader provides our customers access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to form the nation each and every day.
Inform us about your company?
Sole Trader is a varied, professional, leading-edge renewable resource business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and upkeep. Our team of energy professionals assists us reduce building expenses and timelines for our customers. We can likewise offer consulting and strategic planning services, site identification and preparation, building, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, site start-up or shutdown, therefore much more.
Exists anything else you wish to share with ACORE members and partners?
There is no challenge too big or small for us. We welcome chances to bring our clients into the future, using our extensive lessons found out and our tested new innovations. We can help our customers believe in a different way about their neighborhood and the world. We like to state, “We offer you more power over your power.” And our company believe energy independence is the essential to green development.
To get more information about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Photo courtesy of Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the 3rd installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installation includes industry leaders and topics connected to accelerating a fair and simply shift to a renewable energy economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member business are flourishing in the renewable resource sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets professional with more than a years of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and genuine estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his competence and performance history of producing consistent returns with a personal passion for helping transform communities and their impact on the planet. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his impact on Americas transition to a tidy economy.
LEARNT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to begin your business?
I had two turning points that made me leap. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas costs, and she was just making ten dollars an hour, so we could not pay for the gas bill. And so, unfortunately, we had our gas and heat turned off. For around a year in my teenagers, we needed to boil water and carry it as much as a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were distinctively bumpy rides, and experiences like that simply stick with you. I dont care what takes place the rest of your profession or what your quality of life is progressing; those moments are with you forever. As I discuss that with various groups around the nation, it has become clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A great deal of individuals have comparable anecdotes, whichs not a good idea
.
The 2nd turning point was most likely 15 years ago, as I was working for a company that was investing in a host of things around the world. Individuals were being available in to request for a financial investment around sustainable energy, and I presented a question to them: “What you are doing with these solar firms is spectacular, and the expense of solar is boiling down, but how does that assistance everyday individuals?” I asked, “Where are they in your equation? Where is their access? They are paying an out of proportion amount of their earnings on energy.” They looked puzzled that I would even attempt ask about the everyday individuals. They stated, “Well, you understand, low- and moderate-income households frequently live in multi-family buildings, and it is tough to get in contact with those developing owners. If you can not get in contact with the building owners, you need to contact specific families and the expense of getting those individuals informed and after that registering for renewable resource is not a beneficial company design.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the real estate advancement and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to change the market forever. I quit my job. I think I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that conversation, and I started my company. Because that is the unit number in the public real estate where I grew up, I named it 548 Capital. So everything is I do is targeted to families in those scenarios and concentrated on enhancing their lifestyle
.

What can companies like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting people in rooms together so everybody can share notes is always valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had an opportunity to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is magnificent. Then, if there are national corporations that can support our work that can likewise be a huge deal. Were currently working on a collaboration with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our tasks. Normalizing exposure, standing beside us and saying “these communities deserve investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can potential partners do company with you?
We are also constantly willing to host individuals if they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host people as soon as a week at our structure so they can see the innovation that were applying in neighborhoods that traditionally havent had gain access to. Im always challenging leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts due to the fact that I believe that has genuine value
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been excellent simply to satisfy the other Accelerate member companies. I learned a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and learning more about individuals with completely various point of views. I like the networking.
I believe we are doing the finest we can do in the COVID environment. Just knowing that it exists, and that ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a huge distinction.
###.

Tell us about your company? (objective, partners, regions you operate in, main consumers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable technologies accessible for all: all communities, all households, everybody should have gain access to. Someone, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those technologies reach everyone.

I think there is always a shock when individuals discover who is behind our company. Even in our own neighborhoods, individuals just cant think it. Putting people in spaces together so everyone can share notes is always important. We are also always prepared to host people if they desire to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities. We host individuals as soon as a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were applying in neighborhoods that historically have not had gain access to.

Share with us a current success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be developing a $30 million, entirely sustainable and completely economical advancement, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are constructing 50 property units, a cafe, an organization center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What impact are you making?
When individuals learn who is behind our company, I think there is constantly a shock. Even in our own communities, individuals simply cant think it. To me, thats quite satisfying. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is essential is we have a financial impact that resonates with individuals, and its a quite effective message. Were intending to cut utility costs for households in half. Thats a huge deal, you understand. That quantity of cash impacts the budget plan of everyday families
.
What challenges do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting a business, any business, was going to be tough. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly hard. When I go to banks and state that were constructing sustainable real estate in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, they take a look at me like Ive spoken the wrong language. These communities are still being red-lined. Some banks dont want to invest; they do not wish to partner; they do not want to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im trying to combat here, and weve made really little, incremental progress. I think the lesson is that coalition structure is necessary. My voice only suggests a lot, but the more I can bring buddies to the table and enhance that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building techniques to the sustainable energy market. I desire to lower the amount of green area utilized to support the growth of eco-friendly energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to form the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge eco-friendly energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. And we think energy self-reliance is the essential to green development.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the second installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installation will include market leaders and subjects associated with speeding up a fair and just transition to a renewable energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are flourishing in the renewable resource sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned eco-friendly energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists energies, federal governments and co-ops integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your company?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building strategies to the renewable resource market. I desire to minimize the quantity of green space used to support the development of eco-friendly energy worldwide and aid bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a couple of large energies and realizing that the old model will not get us to where we need to be as a country. We require dynamic, unencumbered idea that accepts the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein said, “Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you all over.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an impact through your business?
We are altering the method energies, federal governments and co-ops think of powering the future of this great nation. We purchase finding and utilizing proven, emerging technologies from all over the world that can be used to power the present and the future. Sole Trader gives our customers access to clean energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to shape the country each and every day.
Inform us about your company?
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge renewable resource business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and maintenance. Our team of energy experts helps us reduce building and construction costs and timelines for our customers. We can also offer consulting and strategic planning services, site recognition and preparation, building, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, website startup or shutdown, therefore a lot more.
Exists anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
There is no difficulty small or too large for us. We accept opportunities to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our comprehensive lessons learned and our proven brand-new innovations. We can assist our clients believe in a different way about their neighborhood and the world. We like to state, “We offer you more power over your power.” And our company believe energy self-reliance is the essential to green development.
To find out more about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
###.

Inform us about your company? (objective, partners, regions you operate in, primary clients, and so on).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations available for all: all communities, all households, everybody must have access. Somebody, some entity, has to act as the bridge so that those technologies reach everyone. Thats what my objective is, and thankfully we are growing. We are currently headquartered in Chicago, but we will be revealing some brand-new areas this fall
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Photo courtesy of Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the third installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installation includes market leaders and topics associated with speeding up an equitable and simply transition to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are growing in the renewable energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets specialist with more than a decade of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and real estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his know-how and track record of creating consistent returns with a personal enthusiasm for assisting change neighborhoods and their effect on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his influence on Americas transition to a tidy economy.
FOUND OUT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to start your business?
I had 2 pivotal minutes that made me jump. In 1999, my mom got a $400 gas bill, and she was just making 10 bucks an hour, so we could not pay for the gas expense. And so, regrettably, we had our gas and heat shut down. For approximately a year in my teens, we needed to boil water and carry it approximately a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were uniquely difficult times, and experiences like that simply stick to you. I dont care what happens the rest of your career or what your quality of life is progressing; those minutes are with you permanently. As I discuss that with different groups around the nation, it has actually become clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A lot of individuals have comparable anecdotes, and thats not a good thing
.
They looked confused that I would even attempt ask about the everyday individuals. I believe I turned in my resignation within six months of that conversation, and I started my company. I named it 548 Capital because that is the system number in the public real estate where I grew up.

I think there is constantly a shock when people learn who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, people just cant believe it. Putting people in spaces together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. We are likewise always willing to host people if they want to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. We host individuals as soon as a week at our building so they can see the technology that were using in communities that traditionally have not had gain access to.

So what can companies like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting people in spaces together so everybody can share notes is always important. Through the Accelerate program, weve had an opportunity to speak straight with lenders and tax credit syndicators which is spectacular. If there are national corporations that can support our work that can likewise be a huge offer. Were currently working on a collaboration with Lowes, which is contributing about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our jobs. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and saying “these communities deserve investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can potential partners work with you?
We are likewise always prepared to host individuals if they want to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. We host people as soon as a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were applying in neighborhoods that traditionally havent had gain access to. Im always difficult leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts due to the fact that I believe that has genuine worth
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been terrific simply to satisfy the other Accelerate member business. I discovered a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and finding out about individuals with absolutely different perspectives. I love the networking.
I believe we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Feeling in ones bones that it exists, which ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a huge difference.
###.

Share with us a recent success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to reveal that we will be developing a $30 million, completely budget-friendly and completely sustainable advancement, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 residential systems, a coffee bar, a business center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered use in the city
.
What impact are you making?
When people learn who is behind our company, I think there is constantly a shock. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant believe it. To me, thats quite satisfying. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is essential is we have a financial impact that resonates with individuals, and its a pretty effective message. That amount of money effects the budget of daily households
.
What difficulties do you face? Why?
When I go to banks and state that were developing sustainable real estate in low- and moderate-income communities, they look at me like Ive spoken the wrong language. These communities are still being red-lined. I believe the lesson is that union building is important.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the second installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installation will feature industry leaders and subjects related to accelerating an equitable and simply shift to a renewable resource economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are prospering in the renewable energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned eco-friendly energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists federal governments, co-ops and utilities integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your company?
A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced building strategies to the sustainable energy industry. I desire to lower the quantity of green space used to support the growth of sustainable energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a couple of big utilities and realizing that the old design will not get us to where we require to be as a nation.
How are you making an effect through your business?
We are altering the method energies, co-ops and federal governments think about powering the future of this great nation. We buy finding and using proven, emerging innovations from around the world that can be used to power the present and the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our capability to form the country each and every day.
Inform us about your company?
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge renewable resource business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and upkeep. Our group of utility specialists helps us lower construction costs and timelines for our customers. We can likewise provide consulting and strategic preparation services, site identification and preparation, construction, operations and maintenance, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website startup or shutdown, and so a lot more.
Is there anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
We welcome chances to bring our clients into the future, using our comprehensive lessons found out and our proven new technologies. And we think energy independence is the key to green development.
To find out more about Sole Trader, visit soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced structure strategies to the eco-friendly energy industry. I desire to lower the amount of green area utilized to support the growth of sustainable energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader offers our customers access to clean energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to form the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and upkeep. And we believe energy independence is the essential to green growth.

So what can organizations like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting individuals in rooms together so everyone can share notes is always valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a possibility to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is amazing. If there are nationwide corporations that can support our work that can also be a huge offer. Were presently dealing with a collaboration with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our jobs. Stabilizing exposure, standing beside us and saying “these neighborhoods deserve investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can potential partners do service with you?
Today, we are Chicago-focused. We are constantly trying to find partners to invest, offer financial obligation or purchase some tax credits, thats the very first ask. We are likewise constantly happy to host people if they wish to see a few of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities. This is not proprietary; its an open book. We host individuals once a week at our building so they can see the technology that were applying in neighborhoods that historically havent had access. We are likewise going to be broadening our board. Im constantly difficult magnates to put their name and face on these efforts because I think that has genuine worth
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been fantastic simply to fulfill the other Accelerate member companies. I learned a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and learning more about individuals with absolutely different perspectives. I enjoy the networking.
I believe we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Just understanding that it exists, which ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a big distinction.
###.

Inform us about your company? (mission, partners, regions you operate in, main customers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable technologies accessible for all: all neighborhoods, all households, everyone needs to have gain access to. Someone, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those innovations reach everybody. Thats what my mission is, and fortunately we are growing. We are presently headquartered in Chicago, but we will be revealing some new places this fall
.

I believe there is constantly a shock when people learn who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, individuals simply cant think it. Putting individuals in spaces together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. We are also always prepared to host people if they want to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. We host individuals when a week at our structure so they can see the technology that were using in communities that traditionally havent had gain access to.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image courtesy of Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the third installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment includes industry leaders and topics associated with speeding up an equitable and simply transition to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are prospering in the renewable resource sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets expert with more than a decade of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and realty analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his know-how and track record of developing consistent returns with an individual enthusiasm for assisting change communities and their effect on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his effect on Americas transition to a tidy economy.
LEARNT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to begin your company?
I had 2 essential moments that made me leap. In 1999, my mother received a $400 gas expense, and she was only making 10 bucks an hour, so we could not pay for the gas bill. A lot of people have comparable anecdotes, and thats not an excellent thing
.
They looked puzzled that I would even attempt ask about the everyday people. I think I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that conversation, and I began my business. I named it 548 Capital since that is the system number in the public housing where I grew up.

Share with us a recent success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to announce that we will be developing a $30 million, totally sustainable and completely budget-friendly development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 domestic systems, a coffeehouse, a company center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What impact are you making?
When individuals discover who is behind our business, I believe there is always a shock. Even in our own neighborhoods, people just cant think it. To me, thats pretty gratifying. Individuals seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is essential is we have an economic impact that resonates with people, and its a pretty effective message. Were aiming to cut energy expenses for households in half. Thats a big offer, you know. That quantity of cash effects the spending plan of daily households
.
What obstacles do you face? Why?
You cant avoid the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning a service, any organization, was going to be hard. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly hard. When I go to banks and say that were developing sustainable real estate in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, they look at me like Ive spoken the incorrect language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks do not want to invest; they do not wish to partner; they do not desire to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im trying to combat here, and weve made extremely little, incremental progress. I think the lesson is that coalition structure is essential. My voice just means so much, however the more I can bring pals to the table and magnify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the need
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced structure techniques to the renewable energy industry. I want to minimize the quantity of green area used to support the development of renewable energy around the world and aid bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader offers our customers access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to shape the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge renewable energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and maintenance. And we think energy self-reliance is the crucial to green development.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the second installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment will include market leaders and subjects connected to accelerating an equitable and simply transition to a renewable energy economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member business are prospering in the sustainable energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned eco-friendly energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists federal governments, utilities and co-ops integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your company?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building strategies to the eco-friendly energy industry. I desire to minimize the amount of green area utilized to support the development of eco-friendly energy around the world and help bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a couple of big utilities and understanding that the old design will not get us to where we require to be as a country.
How are you making an impact through your business?
We are altering the way co-ops, energies and governments consider powering the future of this fantastic country. We invest in finding and utilizing tested, emerging technologies from all over the world that can be utilized to power the present and the future. Sole Trader gives our customers access to clean energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to form the nation each and every day.
Tell us about your business?
Sole Trader is a varied, professional, leading-edge renewable resource business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and upkeep. Our group of utility experts assists us decrease building expenses and timelines for our customers. We can likewise supply consulting and tactical planning services, site recognition and preparation, building and construction, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, site start-up or shutdown, and so far more.
Is there anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
We accept chances to bring our customers into the future, utilizing our comprehensive lessons found out and our tested new technologies. And we believe energy independence is the crucial to green development.
To discover more about Sole Trader, see soletraderenergy.org.
###.