Category: Clean Energy

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 important. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and saying “these neighborhoods are worthy of investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can potential partners do company with you?
Right now, we are Chicago-focused. We are always searching for partners to invest, use financial obligation or purchase some tax credits, thats the first ask. If they want to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities, we are likewise constantly prepared to host individuals. 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 communities that historically have not had gain access to. We are likewise going to be expanding our board. Due to the fact that I think that has genuine worth, Im always tough leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been excellent simply to satisfy the other Accelerate member business. I found out a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and discovering people with completely different point of views. I like 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 intentional about the program, makes a big difference.
###.

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, entirely budget-friendly and totally sustainable advancement, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are building 50 domestic units, a cafe, a service center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered use in the city
.
What impact are you making?
When individuals discover who is behind our company, I think there is constantly a shock. Even in our own communities, people simply cant believe it. To me, thats pretty satisfying. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is very important is we have an economic impact that resonates with individuals, and its a quite powerful message. Were intending to cut utility expenses for households in half. Thats a big deal, you understand. That quantity of cash impacts the budget of everyday households
.
What difficulties do you face? Why?
You cant avoid the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning an organization, any organization, was going to be tough. With that said, access to capital is ungodly challenging. When I go to banks and state that were developing sustainable housing 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 wish to invest; they dont want to partner; they do not wish to do their share. It is a fight of generational size that Im attempting to combat here, and weve made really small, incremental development. I think the lesson is that union structure is essential. 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 need
.

I think there is always a shock when people discover who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant think it. Putting individuals in spaces together so everybody can share notes is constantly valuable. We are likewise always ready 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 innovation that were applying in neighborhoods that traditionally havent had gain access to.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image 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 features market leaders and topics associated with speeding up an equitable 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 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 genuine estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his competence and performance history of producing consistent returns with an individual enthusiasm for assisting 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 impact 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 start your business?
I had 2 critical minutes that made me leap. In 1999, my mom got a $400 gas costs, and she was only making 10 dollars an hour, so we couldnt afford the gas costs. A lot of individuals have similar anecdotes, and thats not a good thing
.
They looked confused that I would even attempt ask about the daily individuals. I think I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that conversation, and I began my company. I named it 548 Capital since that is the unit number in the public housing where I grew up.

Inform us about your company? (objective, partners, areas you operate in, main customers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations accessible for all: all neighborhoods, all families, everyone should have gain access to. Somebody, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those innovations reach everyone.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the second installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment will feature market leaders and subjects associated with accelerating a fair and simply shift to a renewable energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business are growing 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 helps co-ops, energies and federal governments incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your company?
A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced building strategies to the renewable energy industry. I wish to reduce the amount of green space used to support the growth of renewable energy worldwide and aid bring our market into the future. I established this business after working for a number of large utilities and understanding that the old design will not get us to where we need to be as a country. 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; imagination will get you everywhere.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an impact through your company?
We are changing the way governments, utilities and co-ops think about powering the future of this terrific nation. We buy finding and utilizing proven, emerging innovations from worldwide 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 capability to shape the country each and every day.
Tell us about your business?
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 maintenance. Our team of energy specialists helps us minimize building expenses and timelines for our clients. We can likewise supply consulting and strategic planning services, site recognition and preparation, construction, operations and maintenance, devices recycling, cybersecurity, site startup or shutdown, therefore far more.
Is there anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
There is no difficulty too big or little for us. We accept opportunities to bring our clients into the future, using our comprehensive lessons discovered and our proven brand-new innovations. We can assist 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 we think energy self-reliance is the crucial to green development.
To discover more about Sole Trader, check out soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building methods to the eco-friendly energy market. I desire to decrease 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 shape the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, professional, leading-edge renewable energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. And we believe energy independence is the crucial to green growth.

Tell us about your business? (objective, partners, areas you operate in, primary customers, and so on).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations available for all: all communities, all households, everybody needs to have gain access to. Someone, 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 everybody can share notes is constantly valuable. Normalizing exposure, standing next to us and stating “these neighborhoods are worthy of investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can prospective partners do service with you?
Right now, we are Chicago-focused. We are constantly looking for partners to invest, offer debt or buy some tax credits, thats the first ask. We are likewise constantly willing to host people if they wish to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities. This is not exclusive; its an open book. We host people as soon as a week at our building so they can see the technology that were applying in neighborhoods that traditionally havent had access. We are likewise going to be expanding our board. Because I think that has genuine worth, Im always challenging top executives to put their name and face on these efforts
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been terrific just to fulfill the other Accelerate member companies. I discovered a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and finding out about individuals with totally various perspectives. I enjoy the networking.
I believe we are doing the best we can do in the COVID environment. Simply understanding that it exists, which ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a big difference.
###.

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 installation includes industry leaders and topics connected to speeding up 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 prospering in the renewable energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets expert with more than a years of experience in investment banking, endowment management, and realty analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his proficiency and performance history of creating consistent returns with a personal passion for assisting transform communities 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 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 2 turning points that made me jump. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas bill, and she was only making ten bucks an hour, so we could not pay for the gas costs. And so, regrettably, we had our gas and heat shut off. For around a year in my teenagers, we had to boil water and bring it up to a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were uniquely difficult times, and experiences like that just stick with you. I do not care what happens the rest of your profession 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, whichs not an advantage
.
The 2nd turning point was most likely 15 years back, as I was working for a firm that was purchasing a host of things around the globe. Individuals were can be found in to request for an investment around renewable resource, and I presented a question to them: “What you are finishing with these solar firms is spectacular, and the cost of solar is boiling down, however how does that help 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 dare ask about the everyday people. They said, “Well, you understand, low- and moderate-income families often 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 structure owners, you have to call private families and the expense of getting those individuals educated and then signing up for renewable resource is not a favorable business model.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the real estate advancement and the solar?” And they stated, whoever does that is going to change the marketplace permanently. I quit my task. I think I kipped down my resignation within 6 months of that discussion, and I started my company. Since that is the unit number in the public housing where I grew up, I called it 548 Capital. Everything is I do is targeted to families in those circumstances and focused on enhancing their quality of life
.

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

Share with us a current success story.
We just recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to reveal that we will be developing a $30 million, completely sustainable and completely inexpensive advancement, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are constructing 50 domestic units, a cafe, a company center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered use in the city
.
What impact are you making?
I believe there is constantly a shock when people discover who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, individuals just 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 quite powerful message. Were intending to cut utility costs for families in half. Thats a big deal, you know. That amount of money effects the spending plan of everyday families
.
What difficulties do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning an organization, any service, was going to be difficult. With that said, access to capital is ungodly hard. When I go to banks and state that were developing sustainable housing in low- and moderate-income communities, they look at me like Ive spoken the wrong language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks dont want 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 combat here, and weve made extremely little, incremental development. I think the lesson is that union building is very important. My voice just indicates a lot, however the more I can bring friends to the table and magnify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the need
.

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 installment will feature industry leaders and topics associated with accelerating an equitable and just shift to an eco-friendly energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how 3 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 company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists co-ops, energies and governments integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building strategies to the sustainable energy industry. I wish to decrease the amount of green area used to support the development of sustainable energy around the world and assistance bring our market into the future. I founded this business after working for a couple of large energies and realizing that the old design will not get us to where we need to be as a country. We require 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 business?
We are altering the way co-ops, federal governments and energies consider powering the future of this great country. We buy finding and using tested, emerging technologies from around the globe that can be used to power today and the future. Sole Trader provides our customers access to clean energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our capability to shape the nation each and every day.
Inform us about your business?
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 team of energy specialists assists us lower building and construction costs and timelines for our customers. We can likewise supply consulting and tactical planning services, site recognition and preparation, building, operations and maintenance, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website start-up or shutdown, therefore a lot more.
Is there anything else you want to share with ACORE members and partners?
There is no challenge small or too big for us. We accept chances to bring our customers into the future, utilizing our comprehensive lessons found out and our proven brand-new technologies. We can help our clients believe differently about their community and the world. We like to state, “We give you more power over your power.” And we believe energy self-reliance is the key to green development.
For more information about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building methods to the eco-friendly energy market. I desire to decrease the amount of green space used to support the development of renewable energy around the world and aid bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader gives our clients access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our capability to form the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. And we believe energy independence is the key to green development.

I believe there is constantly a shock when people learn who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, people just cant believe it. Putting individuals in rooms together so everybody can share notes is constantly important. We are likewise always ready to host people if they want to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities. We host people as soon as a week at our structure so they can see the technology that were using in communities that historically havent had access.

Tell us about your business? (mission, partners, regions you operate in, main consumers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable technologies available for all: all neighborhoods, all households, everybody should have access. Someone, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those innovations reach everybody. Thats what my objective is, and fortunately we are growing. We are currently headquartered in Chicago, but we will be announcing some new areas this fall
.

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 constantly valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a possibility 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 big deal. Were currently dealing with a partnership with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our projects. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing beside us and saying “these communities deserve financial investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can potential partners do service with you?
Now, we are Chicago-focused. We are always searching for partners to invest, use financial obligation or purchase some tax credits, thats the very first ask. We are also constantly ready to host individuals if they wish to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these neighborhoods. This is not exclusive; its an open book. We host people once a week at our structure so they can see the innovation that were applying in communities that historically havent had access. We are likewise going to be broadening our board. Due to the fact that I believe that has genuine value, Im always challenging top executives to put their name and face on these efforts
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been great just to satisfy the other Accelerate member business. I discovered a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and finding out about people with totally various perspectives. I enjoy the networking.
I think we are doing the best we can do in the COVID environment. Simply understanding that it exists, and that ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a big distinction.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the 3rd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment includes market leaders and subjects related to speeding up 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 companies are prospering in the sustainable energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a finance, 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 integrate his knowledge and performance history of producing constant returns with a personal enthusiasm for assisting change communities and their influence on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his influence on Americas shift 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 two essential minutes that made me jump. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas costs, and she was just making ten bucks an hour, so we couldnt manage the gas expense. A lot of people have comparable anecdotes, and thats not a great thing
.
The second pivotal minute was most likely 15 years ago, 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 presented a question to them: “What you are making with these solar firms is spectacular, and the expense of solar is coming down, however how does that aid daily individuals?” I asked, “Where are they in your equation? Where is their access? They are paying an out of proportion quantity of their income on energy.” They looked puzzled that I would even attempt ask about the everyday individuals. They said, “Well, you know, low- and moderate-income households often live in multi-family buildings, and it is hard to get in contact with those constructing owners. If you can not get in contact with the building owners, you have to call individual families and the cost of getting those people informed and after that registering for renewable resource is not a beneficial company design.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the housing development and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to change the market permanently. So I stopped my job. I believe I turned in my resignation within six months of that discussion, and I began my company. Because 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 families in those situations and focused on improving their quality of life
.

Show us a current success story.
We recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be constructing a $30 million, completely affordable and totally sustainable development, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 domestic units, a cafe, a company 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 people discover who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, people simply cant think it.
The other thing that I think is essential is we have an economic impact that resonates with people, and its a quite powerful message. That quantity of cash effects the spending plan of everyday households
.
What difficulties do you deal with? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning a service, any company, was going to be difficult. With that said, access to capital is ungodly tough. When I go to banks and say that were developing sustainable housing in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, they take a look at me like Ive spoken the wrong language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks dont want to invest; they dont wish to partner; they dont wish to do their share. It is a fight of generational size that Im trying to eliminate here, and weve made extremely small, incremental development. I think the lesson is that union structure is important. My voice just implies so much, however the more I can bring good friends to the table and amplify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the 2nd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation will feature market leaders and subjects associated with accelerating an equitable and simply shift to a sustainable energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features 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 renewable resource company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps utilities, federal governments and co-ops incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building strategies to the renewable resource market. I desire to minimize the amount of green area used to support the growth of renewable resource around the globe and help bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a couple of large energies and realizing that the old design 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 said, “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 effect through your business?
We are changing the way federal governments, energies and co-ops think about powering the future of this excellent nation. We invest in finding and making use of proven, emerging technologies from around the world that can be used to power the present and the future. Sole Trader offers our customers access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to shape the nation each and every day.
Inform us about your business?
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge eco-friendly energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. Our team of energy experts assists us decrease building and construction expenses and timelines for our customers. We can likewise supply consulting and strategic preparation services, site identification and preparation, building and construction, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website startup or shutdown, and so much more.
Exists anything else you wish to share with ACORE members and partners?
We accept opportunities to bring our customers into the future, utilizing our substantial lessons learned and our proven new innovations. And we believe energy self-reliance is the essential to green development.
To learn more about Sole Trader, see soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced structure methods to the eco-friendly energy market. I desire to lower the quantity of green space utilized to support the growth of sustainable energy around the world and help bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader provides 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 renewable energy company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and upkeep. And we think energy self-reliance is the essential to green development.

Tell us about your company? (mission, partners, areas you run in, primary clients, and so on).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations available 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 technologies reach everyone.

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. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these communities are worthwhile of financial investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can prospective partners work with you?
We are also constantly ready to host individuals if they desire to see some of the sustainable technology 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 have not had access. Im constantly challenging top executives to put their name and face on these efforts since I believe that has real value
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been excellent just to meet the other Accelerate member companies. I found out a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and finding out about individuals with completely different point of views. I like the networking.
I think we are doing the best we can do in the COVID environment. Simply knowing that it exists, and that ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a big difference.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image courtesy of Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the 3rd installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installment includes market leaders and subjects related to speeding up a fair 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 thriving 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 investment banking, endowment management, and realty analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his know-how and performance history of developing consistent returns with an individual enthusiasm for assisting change neighborhoods and their influence on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his effect 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 pivotal minutes that made me leap. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas costs, and she was only making 10 dollars an hour, so we could not pay for the gas expense. A lot of people have similar anecdotes, and thats not a great thing
.
The 2nd turning point was probably 15 years earlier, as I was working for a firm that was purchasing a host of things around the world. People were coming in to request for an investment around renewable resource, and I posed a question to them: “What you are finishing with these solar companies is incredible, and the expense of solar is boiling down, but how does that help daily people?” I asked, “Where are they in your equation? Where is their gain access to? They are paying a disproportionate amount of their income on energy.” They looked confused that I would even attempt ask about the everyday people. They stated, “Well, you understand, low- and moderate-income families frequently live in multi-family structures, and it is difficult to get in contact with those constructing owners. If you can not get in contact with the structure owners, you have to get in touch with specific families and the expense of getting those people educated and then registering for eco-friendly energy is not a beneficial company model.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the real estate development and the solar?” And they stated, whoever does that is going to alter the marketplace permanently. I stopped my job. I believe I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that discussion, and I began my business. Because that is the unit number in the public housing where I grew up, I named it 548 Capital. Everything is I do is targeted to households in those circumstances and focused on improving their quality of life
.

Show us a recent success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be building a $30 million, entirely economical and completely sustainable advancement, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 property units, a cafe, a service 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 constantly a shock when individuals discover who is behind our company. Even in our own neighborhoods, people just cant think it.
The other thing that I believe is essential is we have a financial impact that resonates with individuals, and its a pretty powerful message. That quantity of cash impacts the spending plan of daily families
.
What obstacles do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting a business, any business, was going to be challenging. With that said, access to capital is ungodly tough. 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 neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks do not 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 fight here, and weve made very little, incremental progress. I think the lesson is that union structure is important. My voice only implies a lot, however the more I can bring good friends to the table and amplify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

I believe there is always a shock when people learn who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant think it. Putting individuals in rooms together so everybody can share notes is always valuable. We are likewise constantly ready to host individuals if they want 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 technology that were using in neighborhoods that traditionally have not had gain access to.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced structure techniques to the eco-friendly energy market. I desire to reduce the quantity of green space utilized to support the development of eco-friendly energy around the world and assistance bring our market into the future. Sole Trader provides our clients 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, construction, operations and maintenance. And we think energy independence 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 series.
Each installation will feature market leaders and subjects associated with accelerating an equitable and simply transition to a renewable energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business 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 eco-friendly energy company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps co-ops, utilities and federal governments integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
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What inspired you to start your company?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced structure strategies to the renewable energy market. I desire to reduce the amount of green space utilized to support the growth of renewable resource around the world and aid bring our market into the future. I established this company after working for a couple of large utilities and understanding that the old model will not get us to where we need to be as a country. We require dynamic, unencumbered thought that accepts 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 effect through your company?
We are altering the method co-ops, governments and energies consider powering the future of this great nation. We purchase finding and utilizing tested, emerging technologies from all over the world that can be used to power today and the future. Sole Trader offers our customers access to tidy 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, professional, leading-edge sustainable energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. Our team of energy specialists assists us lower building costs and timelines for our customers. We can likewise offer consulting and tactical preparation services, website identification and preparation, building and construction, operations and maintenance, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website startup or shutdown, therefore a lot more.
Exists anything else you wish to show ACORE members and partners?
We accept chances to bring our customers into the future, using our extensive lessons learned and our proven brand-new technologies. And we think energy independence is the crucial to green growth.
To find out more about Sole Trader, check out soletraderenergy.org.
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I think there is always a shock when individuals learn who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, people simply cant think it. Putting individuals in rooms together so everybody can share notes is always valuable. We are also constantly ready to host individuals if they desire 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 innovation that were applying in communities that traditionally havent had access.

Inform us about your company? (mission, partners, areas you operate in, main clients, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable technologies 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 innovations reach everybody.

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, totally budget friendly and entirely sustainable advancement, in collaboration 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 broaden solar-powered usage in the city
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What effect are you making?
I believe there is constantly a shock when people learn who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant think it. To me, thats quite satisfying. Individuals seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is essential is we have an economic impact that resonates with individuals, and its a pretty powerful message. That amount of cash impacts the budget of everyday families
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What difficulties do you face? Why?
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 wrong language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. I think the lesson is that coalition building is important.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the 3rd installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installment features industry leaders and subjects connected to speeding up an equitable and just shift to a renewable resource 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 years of experience in investment banking, endowment management, and real estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his expertise and performance history of producing constant returns with an individual enthusiasm for helping transform neighborhoods and their influence on the world. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his influence 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 2 turning points that made me jump. 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 expense. Therefore, regrettably, we had our gas and heat turned off. For roughly a year in my teens, we needed to boil water and carry it up to a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were uniquely difficult times, and experiences like that just stick with you. I do not care what occurs the rest of your profession or what your lifestyle is moving forward; those moments are with you permanently. As I talk about that with various groups around the nation, it has ended up being clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A great deal of people have similar anecdotes, whichs not a good idea
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The second turning point was most likely 15 years back, as I was working for a company that was investing in a host of things around the world. Individuals were can be found in to ask for a financial investment around renewable resource, and I postured a question to them: “What you are finishing with these solar firms is spectacular, and the expense of solar is coming down, however how does that help everyday people?” I asked, “Where are they in your equation? Where is their gain access to? They are paying a disproportionate amount of their income on energy.” They looked confused that I would even attempt inquire about the everyday individuals. They said, “Well, you know, low- and moderate-income families frequently reside in multi-family buildings, and it is difficult to get in contact with those developing owners. If you can not get in contact with the building owners, you need to call individual households and the cost of getting those individuals educated and then signing up for renewable energy is not a beneficial business design.” I asked, “What if I owned the real estate development and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to change the market permanently. I quit my task. I believe I kipped down my resignation within 6 months of that conversation, and I began my company. I called it 548 Capital since that is the system number in the public real estate where I grew up. Everything is I do is targeted to households in those scenarios and focused on improving their quality of life
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What can companies 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 important. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these communities are worthy of investment”– you cant put a worth on that
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How can prospective partners work with you?
Now, we are Chicago-focused. We are always searching for partners to invest, provide financial obligation or purchase some tax credits, thats the first ask. If they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these neighborhoods, we are likewise always prepared to host people. This is not proprietary; its an open book. We host individuals once a week at our structure so they can see the innovation that were applying in communities that traditionally have not had access. We are likewise going to be expanding our board. Im constantly tough magnates to put their name and face on these efforts since I believe that has genuine value
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How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been great simply to meet the other Accelerate member business. I found out a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and discovering people with completely various viewpoints. I like the networking.
I think we are doing the best we can do in the COVID environment. Just knowing that it exists, which ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a big difference.
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By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the first installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series. Each installment will include market leaders and topics associated with accelerating a fair and simply transition to a sustainable energy economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August blog is the first in a series highlighting how Black-owned member companies are growing in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Kristal Hansley is the Founder & & CEO of WeSolar, Inc and is the countrys very first Black female CEO in the neighborhood solar market. Under her management, WeSolar is growing quickly, providing consumers throughout Maryland and the District of Columbia access to inexpensive solar power, no matter home type, and helping hard-working families lower month-to-month costs.
What inspired you to start your business?
The stark fact that the bulk of families who were getting renewable resource incentives were greater income. I keep in mind learning this and believing there needed to be a method to address this gap. I discovered there was a problem. I had my own ideas on how to resolve it, and I wished to have agency over my own choices. I was at a neighborhood meeting with 50 Black females organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar motion. Once I started to describe how important and immediate it was for us to be a part of the solar motion, it felt like a lightbulb had turned on for me. I began revealing how higher-income communities and people in the suburbs were benefiting from renewable tax rewards and had actually received a lots of support. The reality is, energy use effects Black home spending plans considerably. 36% of Black homes experience a high energy burden, indicating they spend over 6% of their income on home energy costs. Thats an enormous percentage. To be able to offer a product that will save our neighborhood approximately 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
Tell us about your business?
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced communities budget friendly access to regional neighborhood solar and to help commercial residential or commercial properties with energy efficiency. In Maryland, legislators passed legislation that specifies 50 percent of its electrical energy should come from sustainable energy sources by 2030.
What challenges do you face? Why?
To a neighborhood that is already dealing with so numerous pushing difficulties, convincing them that there is another one simply as essential is really hard. I keep in mind attempting to discuss neighborhood solar to my pals and the discussion quickly rotating to housing.
Please share with us a recent business success story.
When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was released, and I wanted to guarantee city residents were getting the same quantity of investment as the county. Eco-friendly energy has historically been a middle-class problem because Black communities have actually had to live in survival mode, however Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and linked me with the people I required to link with in order to make this partnership successful.
For more information about WeSolar, check out wesolar.energy
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I was at a community meeting with 50 Black women organizers who were not invested in the community solar movement. To be able to use a product that will conserve our community up to 60% on their energy bills is transformative.
WeSolars objective is to bring under-resourced communities budget friendly access to local community solar and to help commercial residential or commercial properties with energy performance. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I desired to guarantee city homeowners were getting the exact same quantity of investment as the county. Sustainable energy has traditionally been a middle-class concern due to the fact that Black communities have actually had to live in survival mode, however Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and linked me with the individuals I needed to connect with in order to make this partnership successful.