Category: Clean Energy

So 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 always important. Through the Accelerate program, weve had an opportunity to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is spectacular. Then, if there are nationwide corporations that can support our work that can also be a huge deal. Were presently dealing with a partnership with Lowes, which is contributing about $1,000,000 worth of products to support our projects. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing beside us and stating “these communities are worthy of financial investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can prospective partners do business with you?
We are likewise always willing to host individuals if they want to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host people as soon as a week at our building so they can see the technology that were using in neighborhoods that historically havent had gain access to. Im constantly difficult top executives to put their name and face on these efforts since I believe that has real worth
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been great simply to fulfill the other Accelerate member business. I discovered a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and finding out about people with absolutely various viewpoints. I enjoy the networking.
I think we are doing the finest we can do in the COVID environment. Simply knowing that it exists, which ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a big difference.
###.

Inform us about your company? (objective, partners, regions you operate in, main consumers, and so on).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations accessible for all: all neighborhoods, all families, everybody must have access. Somebody, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those technologies reach everybody.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the third installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation includes market leaders and topics connected to speeding up a fair and just shift to an eco-friendly energy economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business are prospering in the renewable resource sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a finance, sales, and capital markets expert with more than a decade of experience in investment banking, endowment management, and property analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his know-how and track record of creating consistent returns with an individual passion for helping transform neighborhoods and their influence on the planet. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his influence on Americas transition to a clean 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 turning points that made me leap. In 1999, my mother got a $400 gas costs, and she was only making ten bucks an hour, so we couldnt afford the gas bill. And so, unfortunately, we had our gas and heat turned off. For around a year in my teenagers, we had to boil water and carry it as much as a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were uniquely bumpy rides, and experiences like that simply stick to you. I do not care what takes place the rest of your career or what your quality of life is moving forward; those moments are with you permanently. As I speak about that with various groups around the country, it has actually ended up being clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A lot of individuals have comparable anecdotes, and thats not an advantage
.
The second turning point was probably 15 years back, as I was working for a company that was purchasing a host of things around the world. People were coming in to request for a financial investment around renewable resource, and I postured a question to them: “What you are making with these solar companies is amazing, and the cost of solar is coming down, but how does that assistance everyday people?” I asked, “Where are they in your equation? Where is their gain access to? They are paying an out of proportion amount of their earnings on energy.” They looked puzzled that I would even dare inquire about the daily people. They stated, “Well, you know, low- and moderate-income households often reside in multi-family buildings, and it is hard to get in contact with those developing owners. If you can not get in contact with the building owners, you need to get in touch with individual families and the expense of getting those individuals informed and then registering for eco-friendly energy is not a favorable service model.” I asked, “What if I owned the housing advancement and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to alter the marketplace forever. So I stopped my task. I think I turned in my resignation within six months of that conversation, and I started my business. Since that is the system number in the public housing where I grew up, I called it 548 Capital. So everything is I do is targeted to families in those scenarios and concentrated on enhancing their quality of life
.

I think there is always a shock when individuals learn 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 always valuable. We are likewise always ready to host people if they desire to see some of the sustainable technology 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 historically have not had gain access to.

Share with us a current success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to announce that we will be constructing a $30 million, entirely sustainable and totally budget friendly advancement, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 residential systems, a cafe, 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 discover who is behind our company, I believe there is constantly a shock. Even in our own neighborhoods, individuals just cant believe it. To me, thats pretty satisfying. Individuals seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is crucial is we have a financial effect that resonates with people, and its a pretty powerful message. That amount of money effects the spending plan of daily families
.
What challenges do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting a service, any business, was going to be challenging. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly difficult. When I go to banks and say that were building sustainable real estate in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, they look at me like Ive spoken the wrong language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks do not desire to invest; they do not wish to partner; they do not wish to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im trying to eliminate here, and weve made extremely little, incremental development. I think the lesson is that union structure is important. My voice just means so much, but the more I can bring good friends 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 ingenious technologies and advanced building strategies to the renewable energy industry. I want to lower the quantity of green space used to support the growth of eco-friendly energy around the world and aid bring our market into the future. Sole Trader provides our clients access to clean energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our capability to shape the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and upkeep. And we think energy independence is the key 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 industry leaders and subjects related to speeding up an equitable and just shift to a renewable resource economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business are prospering 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 renewable energy company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists energies, co-ops and federal governments incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your company?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building methods to the renewable resource market. I wish to lower the quantity of green space used to support the development of renewable energy worldwide and help bring our market into the future. I established this business after working for a number of large utilities and recognizing that the old design will not get us to where we require to be as a nation. We need dynamic, unencumbered thought 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 effect through your business?
We are altering the method utilities, co-ops and federal governments think of powering the future of this excellent nation. We purchase finding and using tested, emerging technologies from all over the world that can be used to power the present 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 country each and every day.
Tell us about your business?
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and upkeep. Our team of energy professionals assists us reduce building and construction costs and timelines for our clients. We can likewise supply consulting and strategic planning services, site recognition and preparation, building, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website start-up or shutdown, and so far more.
Exists anything else you want to share with ACORE members and partners?
There is no challenge too large or small for us. We welcome chances to bring our customers into the future, using our substantial lessons discovered and our tested new technologies. We can assist our customers think differently about their neighborhood and the world. We like to state, “We provide you more power over your power.” And our company believe energy independence is the crucial to green development.
To read more about Sole Trader, see soletraderenergy.org.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the third installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installation features industry leaders and topics connected to accelerating an equitable and simply shift to a renewable energy economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member business are prospering in the renewable resource sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a finance, sales, and capital markets specialist with more than a years of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and real estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his competence and performance history of producing constant returns with an individual enthusiasm for assisting transform communities 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.
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 critical moments that made me jump. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas costs, and she was just making 10 bucks an hour, so we couldnt pay for the gas costs. A lot of individuals have similar anecdotes, and thats not a good thing
.
They looked confused that I would even dare ask about the everyday individuals. I believe I turned in my resignation within six months of that conversation, and I began my business. I named it 548 Capital because that is the system number in the public real estate where I grew up.

I believe there is constantly a shock when individuals discover who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, individuals simply cant think it. Putting people in rooms together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. We are likewise always ready to host individuals if they desire 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 access.

Tell us about your company? (mission, partners, areas you operate in, primary consumers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable technologies available for all: all neighborhoods, all households, everyone must have access. Someone, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those innovations reach everybody.

Show us a current success story.
We recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to reveal that we will be building a $30 million, totally cost effective and totally sustainable development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are building 50 domestic units, a coffeehouse, an organization center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What impact are you making?
I think there is always a shock when individuals discover who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant believe it. To me, thats quite gratifying. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is important is we have a financial effect that resonates with people, and its a pretty effective message. That quantity of cash impacts the spending plan of everyday households
.
What difficulties do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning a company, any business, was going to be tough. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly challenging. When I go to banks and state that were constructing sustainable housing 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 dont wish to invest; they dont want 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 very little, incremental development. I think the lesson is that coalition building is necessary. My voice just suggests so much, however the more I can bring buddies to the table and magnify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the need
.

What can organizations like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting individuals in spaces together so everybody can share notes is always important. Normalizing direct exposure, standing next to us and saying “these communities are deserving of investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can possible partners work with you?
We are likewise always prepared to host people if they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host people when a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were applying in communities that traditionally have not had gain access to. Im always challenging top 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 membership benefited you?
Its been great simply to fulfill the other Accelerate member companies. I learned a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and learning more about people with absolutely different perspectives. I like the networking.
I think 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 big difference.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced structure techniques to the renewable energy industry. I want to lower the quantity of green space utilized to support the growth of eco-friendly energy around the world and assistance bring our market into the future. Sole Trader offers our customers access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to form the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge sustainable energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. And we think energy independence is the essential to green development.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the second installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installment will feature industry leaders and topics related to accelerating an equitable and just shift to a sustainable energy economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business are thriving 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 renewable resource business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists federal governments, energies and co-ops incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring innovative innovations and advanced building techniques to the sustainable energy industry. I want to decrease the quantity of green area used to support the growth of renewable energy around the world and help bring our industry into the future. I established this business after working for a couple of big utilities and understanding 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 co-ops, federal governments and utilities believe about powering the future of this terrific nation. We invest in finding and using proven, emerging innovations from around the world that can be utilized to power the present and the future. Sole Trader gives our clients access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to shape the nation each and every day.
Tell us about your business?
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 maintenance. Our group of utility specialists helps us decrease construction expenses and timelines for our clients. We can likewise offer consulting and strategic planning services, website recognition and preparation, building, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website startup or shutdown, therefore much more.
Exists anything else you would like to share with ACORE members and partners?
There is no obstacle little or too big for us. We accept opportunities to bring our customers into the future, using our extensive lessons found out and our proven brand-new innovations. We can help our customers think differently about their community and the world. We like to say, “We give you more power over your power.” And we believe energy self-reliance is the key to green growth.
To discover more about Sole Trader, visit soletraderenergy.org.
###.

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 installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation features market leaders and topics associated with accelerating a fair and just transition to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member business are growing in the renewable resource sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets specialist with more than a years of experience in investment banking, endowment management, and real estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his proficiency and track record of creating consistent returns with a personal passion for assisting change communities and their influence 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 clean 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 two critical moments that made me jump. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas costs, and she was only making 10 bucks an hour, so we could not pay for the gas costs. Therefore, sadly, we had our gas and heat turned off. For roughly a year in my teens, we needed 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 to you. I do not care what takes place the rest of your career or what your quality of life is moving on; those minutes are with you permanently. As I speak about that with different groups around the nation, it has actually ended up being clear that my experience is not an abnormality. A lot of individuals have similar anecdotes, whichs not a good thing
.
The 2nd essential minute was most likely 15 years back, as I was working for a firm that was investing in a host of things around the world. Individuals were being available in to ask for an investment around renewable resource, and I posed a question to them: “What you are making with these solar firms is amazing, and the expense of solar is coming down, but how does that assistance daily individuals?” I asked, “Where are they in your equation? Where is their gain access to? They are paying an out of proportion quantity of their earnings on energy.” They looked confused that I would even attempt inquire about the everyday individuals. They said, “Well, you know, low- and moderate-income households frequently live in multi-family buildings, and it is difficult to get in contact with those constructing owners. If you can not get in contact with the building owners, you need to get in touch with individual households and the cost of getting those individuals informed and after that signing up for renewable energy is not a beneficial organization design.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the real estate development and the solar?” And they stated, whoever does that is going to change the market forever. So I quit my job. I believe I turned in my resignation within six months of that discussion, and I began my business. Since that is the system number in the public housing where I grew up, I called it 548 Capital. Whatever is I do is targeted to households in those circumstances and focused on improving their quality of life
.

Show us a current success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be developing a $30 million, completely sustainable and completely budget-friendly development, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 domestic systems, a coffee bar, an organization center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What effect are you making?
When people discover who is behind our company, I believe there is constantly a shock. Even in our own neighborhoods, people just cant believe it. To me, thats pretty rewarding. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is important is we have an economic impact that resonates with people, and its a pretty powerful message. That amount of cash impacts the budget plan of daily families
.
What difficulties do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting a company, any organization, was going to be difficult. With that said, access to capital is ungodly hard. When I go to banks and say that were constructing 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. Some banks do not wish to invest; they do not want to partner; they do not desire to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im attempting to combat here, and weve made extremely small, incremental progress. I believe the lesson is that union structure is necessary. My voice only means so much, however the more I can bring friends to the table and amplify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

Tell us about your company? (mission, partners, areas you run in, primary customers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations accessible for all: all neighborhoods, all families, everybody ought to have gain access to. Somebody, some entity, has to function as the bridge so that those innovations reach everyone. Thats what my mission is, and fortunately we are growing. We are currently headquartered in Chicago, but we will be announcing some brand-new places this fall
.

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

What can organizations 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 a chance to speak directly with lenders and tax credit syndicators which is magnificent. Then, if there are national corporations that can support our work that can likewise be a huge offer. Were currently dealing with a collaboration with Lowes, which is contributing about $1,000,000 worth of products to support our tasks. Normalizing direct exposure, standing beside us and saying “these communities deserve investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can possible partners do organization with you?
Now, we are Chicago-focused. We are constantly searching for partners to invest, use debt or purchase some tax credits, thats the very first ask. We are likewise always going to host individuals if they wish to see a few of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these neighborhoods. This is not exclusive; its an open book. We host people once a week at our building so they can see the technology that were applying in communities 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 since I think that has real value
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been excellent simply to meet the other Accelerate member business. I found out a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and discovering individuals with totally different point of views. I enjoy the networking.
I believe we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Feeling in ones bones that it exists, and that ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a huge distinction.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the second installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation will feature industry leaders and topics associated with speeding up an equitable and simply transition to a renewable resource economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are flourishing 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 renewable resource business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps co-ops, federal governments and utilities integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your company?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced structure techniques to the renewable resource market. I want to lower the amount of green area used to support the development of sustainable energy all over the world and help bring our market into the future. I established this company after working for a number of large energies and recognizing that the old model will not get us to where we need to be as a nation. We need vibrant, unencumbered idea that embraces the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein stated, “Logic will get you from A to Z; creativity 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 way co-ops, energies and federal governments think of powering the future of this great country. We invest in finding and using proven, emerging technologies from around the globe that can be utilized to power today and the future. Sole Trader provides our clients access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to shape the nation each and every day.
Tell us about your company?
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge renewable energy company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and maintenance. Our team of energy professionals assists us reduce building and construction expenses and timelines for our clients. We can likewise offer consulting and tactical planning services, website recognition and preparation, construction, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website start-up or shutdown, therefore much more.
Exists anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
We embrace chances to bring our clients into the future, using our comprehensive lessons learned and our tested brand-new innovations. And we think energy self-reliance is the essential to green growth.
To read more about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced building techniques to the eco-friendly energy market. I desire to reduce the quantity of green space utilized to support the growth of sustainable energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader provides our customers access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to shape the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge sustainable energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and upkeep. And we think energy independence is the essential to green development.

So what can companies like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting people in rooms together so everyone can share notes is always valuable. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these neighborhoods are worthy of financial investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can prospective partners do service with you?
Today, we are Chicago-focused. We are always searching for partners to invest, use financial obligation or buy some tax credits, thats the very first ask. We are also always going to host people if they wish to see a few of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. This is not proprietary; its an open book. 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. We are also going to be broadening our board. Because I believe that has real worth, Im constantly difficult leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been terrific simply to satisfy the other Accelerate member companies. I discovered a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and finding out about people with totally different viewpoints. I like the networking.
I think we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Feeling in ones bones that it exists, and that ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a huge difference.
###.

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

Show us a recent success story.
We just recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to announce that we will be constructing a $30 million, entirely sustainable and entirely inexpensive advancement, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 domestic systems, a coffee store, a business center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered usage in the city
.
What impact are you making?
I believe there is always a shock when individuals learn who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, individuals simply cant believe it.
The other thing that I believe is very important is we have a financial impact that resonates with people, and its a pretty powerful message. Were intending to cut energy expenditures for households in half. Thats a huge deal, you understand. That amount of money impacts the budget of everyday families
.
What challenges do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning a company, any service, was going to be difficult. With that said, access to capital is ungodly hard. When I go to banks and say that were building 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 desire to invest; they dont want to partner; they do not want to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im attempting to eliminate here, and weve made very little, incremental development. I believe the lesson is that union structure is necessary. My voice only implies a lot, however the more I can bring friends to the table and enhance that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

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

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image courtesy of 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 installment features market 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 business are thriving 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 genuine estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his expertise and performance history of developing consistent returns with a personal enthusiasm for helping change communities and their impact 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.
FOUND OUT 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 essential minutes that made me jump. In 1999, my mother got a $400 gas bill, and she was only making 10 bucks an hour, so we could not afford the gas expense. 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 individuals. 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 unit number in the public real estate where I grew up.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building methods to the sustainable energy market. I want to minimize the quantity of green area utilized to support the development of sustainable energy around the world and assistance bring our market into the future. Sole Trader gives our clients access to clean energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to shape the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge sustainable energy company with 200+ integrated 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 happy to share the 2nd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment will feature market leaders and topics connected to speeding up a fair and simply transition to an eco-friendly energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are growing 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 sustainable energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps co-ops, energies and federal governments integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
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What inspired you to start your company?
A drive to bring innovative innovations and advanced structure techniques to the eco-friendly energy industry. I desire to lower the amount of green space used to support the growth of renewable energy all over the world and help bring our industry into the future. I established this business after working for a number of large energies and recognizing that the old model will not get us to where we require to be as a country. We require dynamic, unencumbered thought that welcomes the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein stated, “Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you everywhere.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an impact through your business?
We are changing the method federal governments, utilities and co-ops consider powering the future of this terrific country. We invest in finding and using proven, emerging technologies from around the globe 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 shape the country each and every day.
Inform us about your company?
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. Our group of utility professionals assists us reduce building expenses and timelines for our customers. We can likewise offer consulting and strategic preparation services, site identification and preparation, building and construction, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, site startup or shutdown, and so much more.
Is there anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
We welcome opportunities to bring our clients into the future, using our extensive lessons learned and our tested new innovations. And we think energy self-reliance is the key to green development.
To find out more about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
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Inform us about your company? (objective, partners, regions you operate in, primary clients, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations accessible for all: all neighborhoods, all households, everyone ought to have gain access to. Somebody, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those innovations reach everybody.

So what can organizations like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting people in spaces together so everyone can share notes is constantly valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a possibility to speak straight with lenders and tax credit syndicators which is amazing. If there are nationwide corporations that can support our work that can likewise be a big offer. Were presently working on a partnership with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of products to support our jobs. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing beside us and stating “these neighborhoods deserve financial investment”– you cant put a worth on that
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How can possible partners work with you?
We are also always prepared to host individuals if they desire to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities. We host people once a week at our building so they can see the technology that were applying in communities that historically havent had gain access to. Im constantly challenging top executives to put their name and face on these efforts due to the fact that I think that has genuine worth
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How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been fantastic simply to meet the other Accelerate member companies. I discovered a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and discovering individuals with totally various viewpoints. I love the networking.
I believe we are doing the finest we can do in the COVID environment. Simply understanding that it exists, and that ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a big difference.
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Show us a recent success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to announce that we will be constructing a $30 million, entirely cost effective and completely sustainable advancement, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 property systems, a coffee store, a business center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
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What impact are you making?
I think there is constantly a shock when individuals learn who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, people simply cant believe it. To me, thats pretty fulfilling. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is important is we have an economic effect that resonates with people, and its a pretty powerful message. Were aiming to cut energy expenditures for families in half. Thats a huge deal, you understand. That amount of money impacts the budget of daily households
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What obstacles do you face? Why?
You cant avoid the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting a company, any organization, was going to be hard. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly tough. When I go to banks and say that were building sustainable housing in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, they take a look at me like Ive spoken the incorrect language. These communities are still being red-lined. Some banks dont desire to invest; they dont 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 union structure is crucial. My voice just suggests so much, but the more I can bring pals to the table and magnify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the need
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I think there is always a shock when individuals discover who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, people just cant believe it. Putting people in spaces together so everybody can share notes is constantly valuable. We are also always ready to host individuals if they want to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host people when a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were using in communities that historically have not had access.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Photo thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the 3rd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment includes industry leaders and topics related to accelerating an equitable and just transition to an eco-friendly energy economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are thriving 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 investment banking, endowment management, and real estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his competence and performance history of producing constant returns with an individual enthusiasm for helping 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 influence on Americas transition to a clean economy.
CHECKED OUT 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 critical moments that made me leap. In 1999, my mother received a $400 gas expense, and she was only making ten dollars an hour, so we could not manage the gas costs. And so, unfortunately, we had our gas and heat turned off. For approximately a year in my teenagers, we had to boil water and carry it as much as a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were uniquely tough times, and experiences like that simply stick to you. I do not care what occurs the rest of your profession or what your lifestyle is progressing; those moments are with you forever. As I speak about that with various groups around the country, it has become clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A great deal of people have comparable anecdotes, and thats not a good idea
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The second pivotal moment was probably 15 years earlier, as I was working for a company that was investing in a host of things all over the world. Individuals were being available in to request a financial investment around renewable resource, and I postured a question to them: “What you are finishing with these solar companies is amazing, and the expense of solar is boiling down, however how does that help daily individuals?” I asked, “Where are they in your formula? Where is their gain access to? They are paying an out of proportion quantity of their earnings on energy.” They looked puzzled that I would even dare inquire about the everyday individuals. They stated, “Well, you understand, low- and moderate-income families typically reside 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 have to call private families and the expense of getting those people informed and then registering for renewable resource is not a beneficial organization design.” I asked, “What if I owned the housing development and the solar?” And they stated, whoever does that is going to alter the marketplace forever. So I stopped my task. I believe I kipped down my resignation within six months of that conversation, and I began my business. I named it 548 Capital because that is the unit number in the general public housing where I matured. So whatever is I do is targeted to families in those scenarios and concentrated on enhancing their quality of life
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By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring innovative innovations and advanced structure strategies to the renewable energy industry. I desire to minimize the quantity of green space used to support the development of renewable energy around the world and help bring our market into the future. Sole Trader provides our clients access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to form the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge eco-friendly energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. 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 installment will feature market leaders and topics associated with accelerating an equitable and simply shift to a sustainable energy economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business are thriving 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 renewable energy company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps co-ops, energies and federal governments integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your company?
A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced structure techniques to the renewable energy industry. I desire to lower the amount of green space utilized to support the growth of sustainable energy around the world and help bring our market into the future. I founded this company after working for a couple of big energies and understanding 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 altering the method utilities, governments and co-ops think about powering the future of this terrific country. We purchase finding and making use of tested, emerging innovations from around the world that can be used to power today and the future. Sole Trader provides our customers access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to shape the country each and every day.
Inform us about your company?
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and upkeep. Our group of utility specialists assists us reduce building and construction expenses and timelines for our clients. We can also supply consulting and tactical preparation services, site recognition and preparation, construction, operations and upkeep, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, website start-up or shutdown, therefore much more.
Is there anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
There is no obstacle small or too large for us. We accept chances to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our comprehensive lessons discovered and our tested brand-new technologies. We can help our clients believe in a different way about their community 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 read more about Sole Trader, see soletraderenergy.org.
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