Category: Clean Energy

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the third installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation includes industry leaders and topics related to speeding up an equitable and simply transition to a sustainable 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.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a finance, sales, and capital markets expert 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 expertise and track record of developing constant returns with an individual passion for helping transform neighborhoods and their impact on the world. 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 two turning points that made me leap. In 1999, my mother got a $400 gas expense, and she was just making 10 dollars an hour, so we couldnt afford the gas costs. Therefore, regrettably, we had our gas and heat turned off. For approximately a year in my teens, we had to boil water and bring it approximately a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were distinctively difficult times, and experiences like that simply stick with you. I dont care what happens the rest of your career or what your lifestyle is moving on; those moments are with you forever. As I discuss that with different groups around the nation, it has become clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A great deal of people have comparable anecdotes, and thats not a good thing
.
They looked confused that I would even attempt ask about the daily people. I believe I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that discussion, and I began my business. I named it 548 Capital because that is the unit number in the public housing where I grew up.

Inform us about your company? (mission, partners, areas you operate in, primary clients, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable technologies accessible for all: all communities, all families, everyone must have access. Somebody, some entity, needs to serve as the bridge so that those technologies reach everyone. Thats what my objective is, and thankfully we are growing. We are currently headquartered in Chicago, however we will be revealing some brand-new places this fall
.

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 constantly important. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a chance to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is spectacular. Then, if there are national corporations that can support our work that can also be a huge offer. Were currently working on a partnership with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our jobs. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and saying “these neighborhoods deserve investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can potential partners do service 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 individuals when a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were using in neighborhoods that traditionally have not had gain access to. Im constantly challenging leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts due to the fact that I believe that has real value
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been terrific just to satisfy the other Accelerate member companies. I found out a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and discovering about people with absolutely different viewpoints. I enjoy the networking.
I believe we are doing the best we can do in the COVID environment. Simply knowing that it exists, which ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a big distinction.
###.

Share with us a current success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to announce that we will be building a $30 million, completely inexpensive and completely sustainable advancement, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 property units, a coffee store, a service center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered use in the city
.
What effect are you making?
When people learn who is behind our business, I think there is always a shock. Even in our own communities, individuals simply cant believe it. To me, thats quite rewarding. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is important is we have an economic impact that resonates with individuals, and its a quite powerful message. That quantity of cash impacts the budget plan of daily households
.
What difficulties do you deal with? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning a business, any service, was going to be hard. 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 look at me like Ive spoken the wrong language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks dont 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 attempting to combat here, and weve made very small, incremental development. I think the lesson is that union building is essential. My voice only indicates 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 need
.

I think there is always a shock when people learn who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, people simply cant think it. Putting people in spaces together so everybody can share notes is always valuable. We are likewise always prepared to host people if they desire 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 applying in neighborhoods that historically havent had gain access to.

I was at a neighborhood meeting with 50 Black females organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar motion. To be able to provide an item that will save our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods budget-friendly access to regional community solar and to help business residential or commercial properties with energy effectiveness. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was released, and I wanted to make sure city residents were getting the same amount of financial investment as the county. Sustainable energy has actually traditionally been a middle-class issue since Black communities have had to live in survival mode, however Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and linked me with the individuals I required to link with in order to make this collaboration effective.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the very first installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series. Each installment will feature market leaders and topics associated with accelerating an equitable and simply transition to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August blog site is the very first in a series highlighting how Black-owned member companies are flourishing in the renewable resource sector.
Kristal Hansley is the Founder & & CEO of WeSolar, Inc and is the nations very first Black woman CEO in the community solar industry. Under her leadership, WeSolar is growing quickly, supplying customers across Maryland and the District of Columbia access to inexpensive solar power, despite house type, and assisting hard-working households decrease month-to-month expenditures.
What inspired you to begin your business?
I was at a neighborhood conference with 50 Black females organizers who were not invested in the community solar movement. 36% of Black households experience a high energy problem, indicating they spend over 6% of their income on house energy expenses. To be able to use an item that will save our community up to 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
Tell us about your company?
WeSolars objective is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods cost effective access to regional community solar and to assist business residential or commercial properties with energy performance. In Maryland, lawmakers passed legislation that states 50 percent of its electricity should come from sustainable energy sources by 2030.
What obstacles do you face? Why?
To a neighborhood that is currently facing many pushing difficulties, encouraging them that there is another one simply as crucial is very hard. I keep in mind attempting to explain neighborhood solar to my pals and the conversation quickly pivoting to real estate. The truth of the matter is, institutional bigotry and injustice are larger than we understand, and it drowns our neighborhood. Where Black people are not being purchased, we are being asked to focus on continuously for our survival.
Please share with us a current business success story.
A really individual success story for me is cultivating a collaboration with Maryland United Baptist Missionary Convention, Inc. I grew up in a Baptist church in Brooklyn where my cousin was the pastor, and my mommy was an organizer– neighborhood was stitched into my extremely being. When I first transferred to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was launched, and I wished to make sure city homeowners were getting the exact same quantity of financial investment as the county. It was the church that took me in, and the church that then supported my vision– bringing whatever cycle. Renewable resource has actually historically been a middle-class concern since Black neighborhoods have actually needed to reside in survival mode, however Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and connected me with individuals I required to get in touch with in order to make this partnership effective.
To find out more about WeSolar, check out wesolar.energy
###

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building strategies to the renewable energy market. I want to reduce the quantity of green space used to support the growth of eco-friendly 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, expert, leading-edge renewable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and maintenance. And we think energy independence is the crucial to green growth.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the second installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment will include industry leaders and subjects related to accelerating 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 companies are flourishing in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned sustainable energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists governments, utilities and co-ops integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced building strategies to the sustainable energy industry. I desire to lower the amount of green space used to support the development of eco-friendly energy around the world and aid bring our market into the future. I founded this business after working for a couple of big utilities and recognizing that the old design will not get us to where we need to be as a country.
How are you making an effect through your business?
We are altering the method utilities, co-ops and federal governments think about powering the future of this great nation. We invest in finding and making use of proven, emerging innovations from all over the world that can be utilized to power the present and the future. Sole Trader provides our customers access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to shape the country each and every day.
Tell us about your company?
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and upkeep. Our team of energy experts helps us minimize building and construction costs and timelines for our customers. We can also provide consulting and tactical preparation services, website identification and preparation, building and construction, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, site startup or shutdown, and so far more.
Exists anything else you want to share with ACORE members and partners?
We embrace opportunities to bring our clients into the future, using our substantial lessons learned and our proven new innovations. And we believe energy self-reliance is the key to green growth.
To discover more about Sole Trader, check out soletraderenergy.org.
###.

What can organizations like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting individuals in spaces together so everyone can share notes is always valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a possibility to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is spectacular. If there are national corporations that can support our work that can likewise be a big offer. Were currently working on a collaboration with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our tasks. Normalizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these communities are worthwhile of investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can possible partners work with you?
We are also always prepared to host people if they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host individuals as soon as a week at our building so they can see the technology that were using in communities that traditionally havent had access. Im constantly difficult leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts because I think that has real worth
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been fantastic simply to meet the other Accelerate member business. I learned a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and discovering about people with completely various perspectives. I love 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 huge distinction.
###.

I think there is constantly a shock when individuals discover who is behind our company. Even in our own neighborhoods, individuals simply cant believe it. Putting people in spaces together so everyone can share notes is always valuable. We are likewise always prepared 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 innovation that were applying in neighborhoods that traditionally have not had access.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture courtesy of Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the 3rd installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installment includes industry leaders and subjects connected 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 companies are flourishing in the sustainable energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a finance, sales, and capital markets specialist with more than a decade of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and realty analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his know-how and track record of developing constant returns with a personal enthusiasm for assisting change neighborhoods and their influence on the world. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his effect 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 company?
I had two turning points 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 manage the gas expense. And so, sadly, we had our gas and heat shut down. For roughly a year in my teenagers, we needed to boil water and bring it up to a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were distinctively difficult times, and experiences like that just stick to you. I dont 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 talk about that with different groups around the nation, it has actually become clear that my experience is not an abnormality. A lot of individuals have similar anecdotes, and thats not a good idea
.
They looked puzzled that I would even attempt ask about the daily individuals. I believe I turned in my resignation within six months of that conversation, and I started my company. I called it 548 Capital because that is the system number in the public real estate where I grew up.

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

Show us a recent success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to announce that we will be developing a $30 million, entirely economical and totally sustainable advancement, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are constructing 50 domestic systems, a coffee shop, a business center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered usage in the city
.
What effect are you making?
I think there is constantly a shock when people discover who is behind our company. Even in our own neighborhoods, people simply cant believe it. To me, thats pretty satisfying. Individuals seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is essential is we have an economic effect that resonates with people, and its a quite effective message. Were aiming to cut utility expenses for families in half. Thats a big offer, you know. That amount of money impacts the budget plan of everyday families
.
What difficulties do you deal with? Why?
When I go to banks and state 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. I think the lesson is that coalition building is essential.

I was at a neighborhood meeting with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar motion. To be able to offer a product that will save our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy bills is transformative.
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods inexpensive access to regional neighborhood solar and to help industrial homes with energy effectiveness. When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I desired to ensure city citizens were receiving the exact same amount of investment as the county. Sustainable energy has actually historically been a middle-class problem since Black neighborhoods 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 collaboration effective.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the very first installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series. Each installation will feature market leaders and topics connected to speeding up a fair and simply shift 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 business are growing in the renewable resource sector.
Kristal Hansley is the Founder & & CEO of WeSolar, Inc and is the countrys very first Black woman CEO in the neighborhood solar market. Under her management, WeSolar is growing rapidly, providing consumers across Maryland and the District of Columbia access to budget-friendly solar power, no matter home type, and helping hard-working households decrease monthly expenses.
What inspired you to start your company?
The stark fact that most of homes who were getting eco-friendly energy incentives were greater income. I keep in mind discovering this and thinking there needed to be a method to address this gap. I saw there was a problem. I had my own concepts on how to fix it, and I desired to have agency over my own choices. I was at a community conference with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not purchased the neighborhood solar movement. It felt like a lightbulb had actually turned on for me once I began to explain how vital and urgent it was for us to be a part of the solar motion. I began showing how higher-income neighborhoods and individuals in the residential areas were taking benefit of eco-friendly tax incentives and had received a lots of support. The reality is, energy usage effects Black home spending plans considerably. 36% of Black homes experience a high energy concern, indicating they invest over 6% of their income on home energy costs. Thats an enormous percentage. To be able to provide a product that will save our neighborhood approximately 60% on their energy bills is transformative.
Inform us about your company?
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced communities affordable access to regional neighborhood solar and to assist business properties with energy efficiency. In Maryland, lawmakers passed legislation that mentions 50 percent of its electricity need to come from renewable energy sources by 2030.
What difficulties do you deal with? Why?
To a neighborhood that is already facing so many pushing challenges, encouraging them that there is another one just as crucial is extremely challenging. I remember attempting to explain neighborhood solar to my good friends and the discussion rapidly pivoting to housing.
Please share with us a current company success story.
An extremely personal success story for me is cultivating a collaboration with Maryland United Baptist Missionary Convention, Inc. I grew up in a Baptist church in Brooklyn where my cousin was the pastor, and my mama was an organizer– community was stitched into my very being. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I desired to guarantee city locals were receiving the exact same amount of investment as the county. It was the church that took me in, and the church that then supported my vision– bringing everything cycle. Renewable resource has actually historically been a middle-class concern because Black neighborhoods have actually needed to live in survival mode, but Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and linked me with the people I needed to get in touch with in order to make this partnership effective.
For more information about WeSolar, check out wesolar.energy
###

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the 2nd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installation will include industry leaders and topics connected to accelerating a fair and simply shift to a renewable resource economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies 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 energy company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps energies, governments and co-ops integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building methods to the renewable resource market. I want to reduce the amount of green area utilized to support the development of sustainable energy all over the world and aid bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a number of big utilities and recognizing that the old design will not get us to where we require to be as a country. We require 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 everywhere.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an effect through your business?
We are altering the method federal governments, co-ops and energies think of powering the future of this great country. We purchase finding and using proven, emerging innovations from around the globe that can be used to power the present and the future. Sole Trader gives 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 business?
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. Our team of utility professionals helps us decrease building and construction expenses and timelines for our clients. We can likewise provide consulting and strategic preparation services, site identification and preparation, construction, operations and upkeep, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, website startup or shutdown, therefore a lot more.
Is there anything else you want to share with ACORE members and partners?
We accept opportunities to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our extensive lessons discovered and our tested brand-new innovations. And we believe energy independence is the essential to green growth.
To find out more about Sole Trader, visit soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced structure strategies to the sustainable energy market. I want to decrease the quantity of green space used to support the development of sustainable energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader gives our clients access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to form the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and maintenance. And we believe energy independence is the crucial to green growth.

What can organizations 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. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a possibility to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is amazing. Then, if there are nationwide corporations that can support our work that can likewise be a big offer. Were currently working on a collaboration with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our tasks. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these neighborhoods are worthwhile of investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can possible partners do company with you?
We are likewise always willing 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 using in neighborhoods that traditionally havent had access. Im always challenging leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts due to the fact that I think that has genuine worth
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been excellent simply to satisfy the other Accelerate member companies. I learned a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and finding out about individuals with absolutely different perspectives. 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 deliberate about the program, makes a huge distinction.
###.

Show us a recent success story.
We just recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to announce that we will be building a $30 million, totally sustainable and entirely economical development, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are constructing 50 property systems, a coffee shop, a business center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What effect are you making?
I believe there is constantly a shock when people discover who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant think it.
The other thing that I think is crucial is we have an economic effect that resonates with individuals, and its a quite effective message. Were intending to cut energy expenditures for households in half. Thats a huge offer, you understand. That quantity of money effects the spending plan of everyday families
.
What difficulties do you face? Why?
When I go to banks and state that were building sustainable real estate in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, they look at me like Ive spoken the incorrect language. These communities are still being red-lined. I believe the lesson is that union structure is crucial.

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 installation features industry leaders and topics related to 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 prospering 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 realty analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his knowledge and track record of developing constant returns with an individual enthusiasm for assisting change communities and their effect on the planet. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his effect on Americas shift to a clean economy.
LEARNT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to start your company?
I had two essential minutes that made me leap. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas bill, and she was only making 10 bucks an hour, so we couldnt manage the gas costs. A lot of individuals have similar anecdotes, and thats not a good thing
.
The 2nd turning point was probably 15 years ago, as I was working for a firm that was purchasing a host of things all over the world. Individuals were can be found in to ask for a financial investment around renewable resource, and I posed a question to them: “What you are doing with these solar companies is amazing, and the cost of solar is boiling down, however how does that aid everyday 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 confused that I would even dare inquire about the daily people. They stated, “Well, you know, low- and moderate-income families frequently reside in multi-family buildings, and it is tough to get in contact with those building owners. If you can not get in contact with the building owners, you need to call private families and the expense of getting those individuals informed and after that registering for renewable resource is not a favorable business design.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the real estate advancement and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to alter the marketplace forever. So I stopped my job. I believe I kipped down my resignation within 6 months of that discussion, and I began my business. I named it 548 Capital because that is the system number in the general public real estate where I grew up. So whatever is I do is targeted to families in those circumstances and focused on improving their lifestyle
.

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

I think there is constantly a shock when individuals discover who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, individuals just cant think it. Putting individuals in spaces together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. We are also always willing 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 structure so they can see the technology that were applying in communities that traditionally have not had access.

I was at a community meeting with 50 Black females organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar movement. To be able to offer an item that will conserve our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy bills is transformative.
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced communities budget friendly access to regional neighborhood solar and to assist industrial homes with energy effectiveness. When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I desired to guarantee city citizens were getting the exact same quantity of investment as the county. Eco-friendly energy has actually traditionally been a middle-class issue since Black neighborhoods have actually had to live in survival mode, but 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 effective.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the very first installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series. Each installation will include market leaders and subjects connected to speeding up a fair and just shift to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August blog is the first in a series highlighting how Black-owned member business are flourishing in the sustainable energy sector.
Kristal Hansley is the Founder & & CEO of WeSolar, Inc and is the countrys first Black lady CEO in the community solar industry. Under her leadership, WeSolar is growing quickly, supplying consumers throughout Maryland and the District of Columbia access to affordable solar energy, regardless of house type, and helping hard-working families minimize monthly expenditures.
What inspired you to begin your company?
The stark fact that most of homes who were getting renewable resource incentives were higher income. I keep in mind discovering this and thinking there needed to be a way to resolve this space. I discovered there was an issue. I had my own concepts on how to solve it, and I wanted to have firm over my own choices. I was at a community conference with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not bought the community solar movement. It felt like a lightbulb had actually turned on for me as soon as I began to explain how critical and urgent it was for us to be a part of the solar movement. I started revealing how higher-income communities and individuals in the suburbs were taking benefit of renewable tax incentives and had gotten a lots of support. The truth is, energy usage impacts Black household budgets greatly. 36% of Black families experience a high energy burden, suggesting they spend over 6% of their income on home energy expenses. Thats a huge percentage. To be able to offer an item that will save our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy bills is transformative.
Tell us about your business?
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods inexpensive access to regional community solar and to help commercial homes with energy performance. WeSolar launched in Baltimore and will broaden to other cities in the future. Through WeSolar, electrical power consumers can purchase shared solar from a local job without needing to install any devices in their homes. In turn, homeowners save hundreds on their electricity bills. In Maryland, legislators passed legislation that states 50 percent of its electrical energy should originate from renewable resource sources by 2030.
What challenges do you deal with? Why?
To a neighborhood that is already facing so many pressing difficulties, convincing them that there is another one just as crucial is really hard. I remember trying to describe neighborhood solar to my pals and the conversation quickly pivoting to housing.
Please show us a current company success story.
When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was launched, and I desired to guarantee city residents were getting the same quantity of financial investment as the county. Renewable energy has actually traditionally been a middle-class problem since Black neighborhoods have had to live in survival mode, but Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and connected me with the people I needed to link with in order to make this partnership effective.
To read more about WeSolar, go to wesolar.energy
###

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 installation will feature industry leaders and topics connected to accelerating an equitable and simply transition to a renewable resource economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies 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 eco-friendly energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps utilities, co-ops and governments incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your business?
A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced building strategies to the renewable energy market. I wish to lower the quantity of green space used to support the development of eco-friendly energy all over the world and help bring our industry into the future. I founded this company 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 idea 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 impact through your company?
We are changing the way energies, governments and co-ops think of powering the future of this great nation. We purchase finding and utilizing proven, emerging innovations from worldwide that can be utilized to power the present and the future. Sole Trader offers 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 business?
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. Our group of energy specialists helps us decrease building expenses and timelines for our clients. We can likewise offer consulting and strategic preparation services, website recognition and preparation, building and construction, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, site start-up or shutdown, and so much more.
Is there anything else you would like to share with ACORE members and partners?
We accept opportunities to bring our customers into the future, using our substantial lessons found out and our tested brand-new innovations. And we think energy independence is the key to green growth.
To read more about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
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A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced building techniques to the sustainable energy market. I desire to lower the amount of green area utilized to support the development of eco-friendly energy around the world and help bring our market into the future. Sole Trader provides our clients 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, expert, leading-edge renewable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and upkeep. And we think energy self-reliance is the essential to green growth.

Tell us about your business? (objective, partners, areas you operate in, primary clients, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations available for all: all communities, all families, everybody should have access. Somebody, some entity, has to serve as the bridge so that those innovations reach everybody.

I think there is constantly a shock when individuals learn who is behind our company. Even in our own neighborhoods, people simply cant believe it. Putting individuals in spaces together so everybody can share notes is always important. We are also always prepared to host people if they desire to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities. We host individuals when a week at our structure so they can see the technology that were applying in communities that traditionally have not had access.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture 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 site series.
Each installation features market leaders and subjects connected to accelerating an equitable and simply transition to a sustainable energy economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are flourishing in the renewable 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 realty analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his competence and performance history of developing constant returns with a personal enthusiasm for helping change neighborhoods and their effect on the world. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his effect on Americas transition to a tidy economy.
FOUND OUT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to begin your company?
I had 2 turning points that made me leap. In 1999, my mother received a $400 gas expense, and she was only making ten bucks an hour, so we couldnt pay for the gas costs. And so, sadly, we had our gas and heat shut down. For around a year in my teens, we needed to boil water and bring it up to a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were distinctively difficult times, and experiences like that just stick to you. I dont care what happens the rest of your career or what your lifestyle is moving on; those moments are with you permanently. As I talk about that with different groups around the country, it has actually ended up being clear that my experience is not an anomaly. A lot of people have comparable anecdotes, and thats not an advantage
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They looked confused that I would even dare ask about the daily people. I think I turned in my resignation within six months of that discussion, and I began my company. I called it 548 Capital since that is the unit number in the public real estate where I grew up.

What can companies like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting individuals in spaces together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a chance to speak straight with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is magnificent. If there are national corporations that can support our work that can also be a big offer. Were currently dealing with a partnership with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of products to support our jobs. Normalizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these communities deserve investment”– you cant put a worth on that
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How can possible partners do service with you?
We are likewise constantly willing to host people if they desire to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host individuals as soon as a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were applying in communities that traditionally havent had access. Im constantly difficult top executives to put their name and face on these efforts due to the fact that I think that has genuine value
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How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been terrific simply to satisfy the other Accelerate member business. I learned a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and discovering people with totally various perspectives. I enjoy the networking.
I think we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Just knowing that it exists, which ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a huge distinction.
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Share with us a current success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be constructing a $30 million, entirely budget friendly and entirely sustainable development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are constructing 50 residential units, a cafe, a service 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?
When people discover who is behind our business, I think there is always a shock. Even in our own communities, people just cant think it. To me, thats pretty rewarding. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is necessary is we have an economic effect that resonates with individuals, and its a pretty effective message. Were aiming to cut utility expenses for households in half. Thats a huge deal, you know. That quantity of money effects the spending plan of daily families
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What challenges do you face? Why?
You cant skip the grind. Let me acknowledge that beginning a service, any business, was going to be tough. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly tough. When I go to banks and state that were building 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 wish to invest; they do not want to partner; they dont want to do their share. It is a fight of generational size that Im trying to battle here, and weve made really little, incremental progress. I believe the lesson is that coalition structure is very important. My voice only means a lot, however the more I can bring buddies to the table and amplify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the need
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