Category: Clean Energy

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the 2nd installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation will feature industry leaders and topics associated with speeding up a fair 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 business are flourishing in the renewable energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned renewable resource business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists federal governments, co-ops and utilities integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your business?
A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building techniques to the renewable resource market. I wish to decrease the quantity of green space used to support the growth of renewable resource around the globe and assistance bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a couple of large utilities and realizing that the old design will not get us to where we require to be as a nation. We need vibrant, unencumbered idea that accepts the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein said, “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 changing the way energies, governments and co-ops believe about powering the future of this excellent nation. We invest in finding and making use of proven, emerging innovations from all over the world that can be utilized to power today and the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our capability to shape the nation each and every day.
Inform us about your company?
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge renewable resource business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. Our group of utility specialists helps us decrease construction costs and timelines for our customers. We can likewise supply consulting and tactical planning services, site identification and preparation, building and construction, operations and maintenance, devices recycling, cybersecurity, site start-up or shutdown, and so a lot more.
Exists anything else you want to share with ACORE members and partners?
There is no difficulty little or too big for us. We embrace opportunities to bring our customers into the future, utilizing our substantial lessons found out and our proven brand-new innovations. We can help our clients think in a different way about their community and the world. We like to state, “We offer you more power over your power.” And our company believe energy independence is the essential to green growth.
For more information about Sole Trader, go to soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring innovative innovations and advanced building strategies to the eco-friendly energy market. I want to reduce the amount 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 offers our clients access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to form the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, professional, leading-edge sustainable energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. And we believe energy independence is the key to green growth.

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

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 constantly valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a possibility to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is spectacular. If there are nationwide corporations that can support our work that can also be a huge deal. Were currently working on a partnership with Lowes, which is contributing about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our projects. Stabilizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these communities deserve financial investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can potential partners work with you?
We are likewise constantly ready to host individuals if they desire to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these communities. We host individuals as soon as a week at our structure 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 due to the fact that I believe that has real worth
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been terrific just to meet the other Accelerate member business. I found out a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and discovering individuals with totally different viewpoints. I enjoy the networking.
I think we are doing the finest we can do in the COVID environment. Simply understanding that it exists, which ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a huge distinction.
###.

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

Share with us a recent success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to announce that we will be building a $30 million, totally cost effective and completely sustainable development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 property systems, a cafe, a company center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered usage in the city
.
What impact are you making?
I think there is constantly a shock when people learn who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, individuals just cant believe it. To me, thats quite gratifying. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is important is we have an economic effect that resonates with people, and its a pretty powerful message. 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 service, was going to be difficult. With that said, access to capital is ungodly difficult. When I go to banks and say that were building sustainable housing in low- and moderate-income communities, they take a look at me like Ive spoken the incorrect language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. Some banks do not 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 little, incremental development. I believe the lesson is that coalition structure is necessary. My voice only means a lot, however the more I can bring good friends to the table and magnify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Photo 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 series.
Each installation features market leaders and subjects associated with speeding up an equitable and just shift to a sustainable energy 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.
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 property analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his competence and performance history of creating constant returns with a personal passion for assisting transform neighborhoods and their effect on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his influence on Americas 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 company?
I had 2 essential moments that made me leap. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas costs, and she was just making ten dollars an hour, so we could not pay for the gas expense. Therefore, unfortunately, we had our gas and heat shut down. For approximately a year in my teenagers, we needed to boil water and bring it as much as 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 takes place the rest of your profession or what your lifestyle is progressing; those minutes are with you permanently. As I speak about that with various groups around the nation, it has ended up being clear that my experience is not an abnormality. A lot of individuals have comparable anecdotes, whichs not a good thing
.
They looked confused that I would even attempt ask about the everyday individuals. I believe I turned in my resignation within six months of that conversation, and I began my business. I named it 548 Capital because that is the unit number in the public housing where I grew up.

I was at a community meeting with 50 Black females organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar motion. To be able to offer a product that will conserve our community up to 60% on their energy costs is transformative.
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods cost effective access to local neighborhood solar and to assist industrial homes with energy efficiency. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was released, and I desired to guarantee city residents were receiving the very same amount of financial investment as the county. Sustainable energy has actually traditionally been a middle-class issue because 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 individuals I required to connect 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 include industry leaders and topics related to speeding up an equitable and just shift to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August blog site is the first in a series highlighting how Black-owned member business are flourishing in the renewable resource 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 management, WeSolar is growing rapidly, supplying customers across Maryland and the District of Columbia access to budget-friendly solar power, no matter home type, and helping hard-working households lower month-to-month expenses.
What inspired you to begin your business?
I was at a neighborhood meeting with 50 Black females organizers who were not invested in the community solar movement. 36% of Black families experience a high energy concern, suggesting they invest over 6% of their earnings on house energy costs. To be able to provide a product that will conserve our community up to 60% on their energy costs is transformative.
Tell us about your company?
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods budget friendly access to local community solar and to assist commercial homes with energy performance. WeSolar introduced in Baltimore and will broaden to other cities in the future. Through WeSolar, electricity customers can buy shared solar from a regional job without needing to install any devices in their houses. In turn, residents save hundreds on their electrical energy bills. In Maryland, lawmakers passed legislation that specifies 50 percent of its electrical energy should come from renewable resource sources by 2030.
What challenges do you deal with? Why?
To a community that is currently dealing with so lots of pushing obstacles, persuading them that there is another one just as crucial is extremely challenging. I keep in mind trying to describe neighborhood solar to my pals and the discussion quickly pivoting to real estate. The fact of the matter is, institutional racism and oppression are bigger than we know, and it drowns our neighborhood. Where Black individuals are not being bought, we are being asked to prioritize constantly for our survival.
Please share with us a current company success story.
When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was released, and I wanted to guarantee city homeowners were getting the same quantity of financial investment as the county. Renewable energy has actually traditionally been a middle-class issue because Black neighborhoods have actually had to live in survival mode, but Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and connected me with the individuals I needed to link with in order to make this collaboration effective.
To find out more about WeSolar, see 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 site series.
Each installation will feature industry leaders and topics related 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 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are flourishing in the renewable energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned renewable resource business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps federal governments, co-ops and energies integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your company?
A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced structure techniques to the renewable energy industry. I want to minimize the amount of green area used to support the growth of sustainable energy around the world and help bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a couple of big utilities and recognizing that the old model will not get us to where we require to be as a nation.
How are you making an effect through your business?
We are changing the method federal governments, energies and co-ops believe about powering the future of this excellent country. We purchase finding and making use of tested, emerging technologies from worldwide that can be utilized to power the present and the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to form the nation each and every day.
Tell us about your company?
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and upkeep. Our group of energy specialists assists us reduce building and construction costs and timelines for our customers. We can also provide consulting and strategic preparation services, website identification and preparation, construction, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, site startup or shutdown, and so far more.
Is there anything else you want to show ACORE members and partners?
We welcome chances to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our extensive lessons found out and our proven brand-new technologies. And we think energy self-reliance is the key to green growth.
To get more information about Sole Trader, visit soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building strategies to the sustainable energy industry. I want to reduce the amount of green area used to support the development of renewable energy around the world and assistance bring our market into the future. Sole Trader gives our customers access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to shape the nation 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 crucial to green growth.

Inform us about your company? (mission, partners, regions you run in, primary consumers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations available for all: all neighborhoods, all households, everyone ought to have gain access to. Somebody, some entity, has to function as the bridge so that those technologies reach everybody. Thats what my mission is, and luckily we are growing. We are currently headquartered in Chicago, but we will be revealing some new areas this fall
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture courtesy of Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the third installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installment features market leaders and subjects related to speeding up a fair and just 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 flourishing in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets professional with more than a decade of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and real estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his know-how and track record of developing constant returns with an individual enthusiasm for helping change neighborhoods and their effect on the world. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his impact on Americas shift to a tidy economy.
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 pivotal moments that made me leap. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas bill, and she was just making 10 dollars an hour, so we could not afford the gas costs. A lot of people have comparable anecdotes, and thats not a great thing
.
The second pivotal minute was probably 15 years earlier, as I was working for a firm that was investing in a host of things around the world. Individuals were can be found in to request for a financial investment around eco-friendly energy, and I postured a concern to them: “What you are finishing with these solar companies is spectacular, and the cost of solar is boiling down, however how does that aid everyday people?” 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 inquire about the everyday people. They said, “Well, you know, low- and moderate-income households frequently 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 structure owners, you need to call specific families and the expense of getting those individuals educated and then subscribing to sustainable energy is not a favorable organization model.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the real estate advancement and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to change the market forever. So I quit my task. I think I turned in my resignation within six months of that discussion, and I began my business. I named it 548 Capital because that is the system number in the public real estate where I matured. So whatever is I do is targeted to families in those scenarios and concentrated on improving their lifestyle
.

Show us a recent success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to announce that we will be constructing a $30 million, totally budget-friendly and entirely sustainable development, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 residential units, a coffeehouse, an organization center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What impact are you making?
When people discover who is behind our company, I think there is constantly a shock. Even in our own neighborhoods, people simply cant think it. To me, thats quite rewarding. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is very important is we have a financial effect that resonates with individuals, and its a pretty powerful message. Were aiming to cut utility costs for households in half. Thats a big deal, you know. That amount of cash effects the budget of everyday families
.
What obstacles do you deal with? Why?
When I go to banks and state that were constructing 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 think the lesson is that coalition structure is important.

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 everyone can share notes is always valuable. 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 when a week at our building so they can see the technology that were applying in neighborhoods that historically havent had access.

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 important. Normalizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these neighborhoods are worthy of investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can possible partners do company with you?
Now, we are Chicago-focused. We are constantly trying to find partners to invest, offer debt or buy some tax credits, thats the very first ask. If they want to see some of the sustainable technology we are putting in these neighborhoods, we are likewise always willing to host people. This is not exclusive; its an open book. We host people as soon as a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were applying in neighborhoods that historically havent had gain access to. We are also going to be expanding our board. Because I believe that has real worth, Im constantly challenging top executives to put their name and face on these efforts
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been excellent just to satisfy the other Accelerate member business. I found out a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and learning more about people with completely various point of views. I like the networking.
I think we are doing the finest we can do in the COVID environment. Just knowing that it exists, and that ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a big distinction.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the first installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series. Each installment will include industry leaders and subjects associated with accelerating a fair and just 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 business are flourishing in the renewable resource sector.
Kristal Hansley is the Founder & & CEO of WeSolar, Inc and is the nations very first Black lady CEO in the community solar industry. Under her management, WeSolar is growing rapidly, offering consumers across Maryland and the District of Columbia access to inexpensive solar energy, despite home type, and assisting hard-working families lower regular monthly expenditures.
What inspired you to begin your business?
The plain fact that most of families who were receiving renewable resource incentives were higher income. I keep in mind learning this and believing there had to be a method to resolve this gap. I observed there was an issue. I had my own ideas on how to resolve it, and I desired to have company over my own decisions. I was at a neighborhood conference with 50 Black females organizers who were not purchased the community solar motion. It felt like a lightbulb had 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 motion. I began showing how higher-income neighborhoods and individuals in the residential areas were benefiting from sustainable tax incentives and had actually gotten a lots of assistance. The fact is, energy use effects Black home budgets considerably. 36% of Black families experience a high energy problem, suggesting they spend over 6% of their earnings on home energy costs. Thats a huge percentage. To be able to use a product that will conserve our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
Tell us about your company?
WeSolars objective is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods inexpensive access to local community solar and to assist commercial homes with energy effectiveness. In Maryland, legislators passed legislation that states 50 percent of its electrical energy must come from sustainable energy sources by 2030.
What challenges do you deal with? Why?
To a neighborhood that is already facing numerous pressing obstacles, convincing them that there is another one just as crucial is really hard. I remember trying to describe community solar to my pals and the discussion rapidly rotating to housing. The fact of the matter is, institutional bigotry and injustice are larger than we understand, and it drowns our neighborhood. Where Black people are not being invested in, we are being asked to focus on constantly for our survival.
Please show us a recent business success story.
When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was launched, and I wanted to make sure city locals were receiving the very same quantity of financial investment as the county. Sustainable energy has historically been a middle-class concern 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 individuals I needed to link with in order to make this collaboration successful.
To find out more about WeSolar, check out wesolar.energy
###

I was at a community meeting with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar motion. To be able to provide a product that will save our neighborhood 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 assist industrial residential or commercial properties with energy efficiency. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I wanted to ensure city homeowners were getting the same amount of financial investment as the county. Eco-friendly energy has historically 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 individuals I needed to connect with in order to make this collaboration successful.

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 installment will include market leaders and subjects connected to accelerating an equitable and just shift to a sustainable energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are growing in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned renewable energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps utilities, governments and co-ops incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your company?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building methods to the renewable energy industry. I desire to decrease the quantity of green area utilized to support the growth of renewable energy around the world and help bring our market into the future. I founded this business after working for a number of large energies and recognizing that the old design will not get us to where we require to be as a nation. We need vibrant, 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 everywhere.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an impact through your business?
We are altering the way co-ops, governments and utilities believe about powering the future of this fantastic nation. We purchase finding and using proven, emerging innovations from all over the world that can be utilized 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.
Inform us about your company?
Sole Trader is a varied, professional, leading-edge renewable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and upkeep. Our team of utility experts helps us reduce building expenses and timelines for our customers. We can also provide consulting and tactical preparation services, website recognition and preparation, building, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, website start-up or shutdown, therefore a lot more.
Exists anything else you want to show ACORE members and partners?
There is no obstacle too big or little for us. We welcome chances to bring our clients into the future, using our extensive lessons learned and our proven new innovations. We can assist our clients believe differently about their neighborhood and the world. We like to say, “We offer you more power over your power.” And we believe energy independence is the essential to green growth.
To read more about Sole Trader, see soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building strategies to the renewable energy market. I want to minimize the quantity of green space used to support the development of eco-friendly energy around the world and help bring our market into the future. Sole Trader offers our customers access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to shape the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge eco-friendly energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and upkeep. And we believe energy self-reliance is the key to green development.

So 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. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a chance to speak straight with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is incredible. If there are national corporations that can support our work that can also be a big offer. Were presently working on a partnership with Lowes, which is donating about $1,000,000 worth of materials to support our jobs. Normalizing exposure, standing beside us and stating “these neighborhoods deserve financial investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can possible partners work with you?
Today, we are Chicago-focused. We are constantly looking for partners to invest, offer debt or purchase some tax credits, thats the first ask. If they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities, we are also always willing to host people. This is not exclusive; its an open book. We host people as soon as a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were applying in neighborhoods that historically have not had access. We are likewise going to be expanding our board. Im always challenging leading executives to put their name and face on these efforts since I think that has real worth
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been fantastic simply to fulfill the other Accelerate member companies. I found out a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and finding out about individuals with totally various 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, which ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a huge difference.
###.

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

I believe there is constantly a shock when individuals learn who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, individuals simply cant think it. Putting people in rooms together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. We are likewise constantly ready 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 structure so they can see the technology that were applying in communities that traditionally havent had gain access to.

Share with us a recent success story.
We recently joined Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to announce that we will be building a $30 million, totally budget-friendly and entirely sustainable advancement, in collaboration with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 domestic systems, a coffeehouse, a service center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What effect are you making?
I think there is constantly a shock when individuals discover who lags our company. Even in our own neighborhoods, people just cant think it. To me, thats pretty rewarding. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is essential is we have a financial effect that resonates with people, and its a quite powerful message. That quantity of cash impacts the budget of daily families
.
What challenges do you deal with? Why?
When I go to banks and state that were constructing 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 believe the lesson is that union structure is essential.

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 installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation includes market leaders and subjects connected to speeding up an equitable and just transition to a renewable resource economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are prospering in the renewable resource sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets professional with more than a decade of experience in financial investment banking, endowment management, and genuine estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his competence and track record of creating constant returns with an individual enthusiasm for assisting change neighborhoods and their impact on the planet. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his effect on Americas transition to a tidy economy.
CHECKED OUT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to begin your company?
I had two critical minutes that made me jump. In 1999, my mom received a $400 gas expense, and she was just making 10 dollars an hour, so we could not afford the gas expense. A lot of individuals have similar anecdotes, and thats not an excellent thing
.
The 2nd pivotal minute was probably 15 years ago, as I was working for a company that was buying a host of things around the globe. Individuals were being available in to ask for a financial investment around sustainable energy, and I postured a question to them: “What you are doing with these solar firms is magnificent, and the cost of solar is coming down, but how does that assistance daily people?” I asked, “Where are they in your formula? Where is their gain access to? They are paying an out of proportion amount of their income on energy.” They looked puzzled that I would even dare ask about the daily people. They said, “Well, you know, low- and moderate-income households frequently live in multi-family structures, and it is tough to get in contact with those constructing owners. If you can not get in contact with the structure owners, you have to contact private households and the cost of getting those individuals educated and after that subscribing to renewable energy is not a favorable organization design.” I asked, “What if I owned the housing development and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to alter the marketplace forever. I stopped my task. I believe I kipped down my resignation within 6 months of that conversation, and I began my company. Since that is the system number in the public housing where I grew up, I called it 548 Capital. Whatever is I do is targeted to families in those situations and focused on improving their quality of life
.

I was at a community conference with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar motion. To be able to provide a product that will save our neighborhood 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 assist commercial properties with energy performance. When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was launched, and I desired to guarantee city homeowners were getting the very same amount of investment as the county. Sustainable energy has actually historically been a middle-class concern because 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 people I needed to link with in order to make this collaboration successful.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the first installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series. Each installation will include industry leaders and subjects connected to accelerating an equitable and just shift to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August blog site is the first in a series highlighting how Black-owned member business are flourishing in the renewable resource 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 across Maryland and the District of Columbia access to economical solar power, despite house type, and helping hard-working households decrease month-to-month expenditures.
What inspired you to begin your company?
I was at a community meeting with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not invested in the community solar motion. 36% of Black homes experience a high energy problem, indicating they spend over 6% of their income on house energy bills. To be able to offer an item that will save our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
Tell us about your business?
WeSolars objective is to bring under-resourced communities economical access to local community solar and to assist business homes with energy performance. 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 community that is currently dealing with so lots of pushing difficulties, persuading them that there is another one just as essential is extremely hard. I keep in mind trying to discuss community solar to my good friends and the conversation quickly pivoting to housing.
Please share with us a recent company success story.
An extremely individual success story for me is cultivating a partnership with Maryland United Baptist Missionary Convention, Inc. I matured in a Baptist church in Brooklyn where my cousin was the pastor, and my mama was an organizer– community was sewn into my really being. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was released, and I wished to make sure city homeowners were getting the same amount of financial investment as the county. It was the church that took me in, and the church that then supported my vision– bringing everything cycle. Eco-friendly energy has traditionally been a middle-class problem since Black communities have actually needed to reside in survival mode, but Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and connected me with individuals I needed to link with in order to make this collaboration effective.
To read more about WeSolar, go to wesolar.energy
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By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building methods to the renewable energy industry. I desire to decrease the quantity of green space utilized to support the development of sustainable energy around the world and aid 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 country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge sustainable energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. And we believe energy self-reliance is the essential to green growth.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the second installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installment will include industry leaders and subjects associated with speeding up a fair and just shift to a sustainable energy economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business are thriving in the sustainable energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned renewable resource business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader helps energies, federal governments and co-ops integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
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What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building methods to the renewable energy market. I want to decrease the amount of green area used to support the development of sustainable energy worldwide and assistance bring our market into the future. I established this business after working for a couple of big utilities and realizing that the old design will not get us to where we need to be as a nation. We need vibrant, unencumbered thought that welcomes the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein said, “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 way governments, co-ops and utilities think of powering the future of this terrific country. We invest in finding and utilizing tested, emerging technologies from around the globe that can be used to power today and 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.
Tell us about your company?
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. Our group of utility professionals assists us lower building and construction costs and timelines for our clients. We can likewise offer consulting and strategic preparation services, site recognition and preparation, building, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website start-up or shutdown, therefore much more.
Is there anything else you would like to share with ACORE members and partners?
We welcome opportunities to bring our clients into the future, using our substantial lessons learned and our proven new innovations. And we think energy self-reliance is the essential to green growth.
To learn more about Sole Trader, see soletraderenergy.org.
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