Category: Clean Energy

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the second installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment will feature industry leaders and subjects associated with accelerating a fair and simply shift to a sustainable energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are flourishing in the renewable energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned renewable resource company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists utilities, governments and co-ops incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced building techniques to the renewable resource industry. I wish to minimize the amount of green space utilized to support the growth of renewable energy all over the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. I established this company after working for a number of big energies and realizing that the old design will not get us to where we require to be as a country. We require vibrant, unencumbered idea that accepts 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 impact through your company?
We are altering the method co-ops, governments and energies consider powering the future of this excellent country. We purchase finding and using proven, emerging innovations from all over the world that can be used to power today and the future. Sole Trader offers 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 diverse, expert, leading-edge eco-friendly energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and upkeep. Our group of utility professionals helps us reduce building expenses and timelines for our clients. We can likewise provide consulting and strategic planning services, site recognition and preparation, building and construction, operations and upkeep, devices recycling, cybersecurity, website start-up or shutdown, therefore much more.
Is there anything else you want to share with ACORE members and partners?
We welcome chances to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our comprehensive lessons learned and our tested new innovations. And we think energy self-reliance is the essential to green development.
To find out more about Sole Trader, check out soletraderenergy.org.
###.

A drive to bring innovative innovations and advanced structure methods to the renewable energy industry. I want to reduce the quantity of green space utilized to support the development of renewable energy around the world and help bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader gives our clients access to clean energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our capability to shape the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, professional, leading-edge eco-friendly energy business with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and upkeep. And we think energy self-reliance is the crucial to green development.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Image thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the 3rd installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment includes industry leaders and topics connected to speeding up a fair and simply shift to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member companies are thriving 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 investment banking, endowment management, and property analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his competence and track record of producing consistent returns with an individual enthusiasm for helping transform communities and their influence on the planet. In 2019, Patton was named a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his impact on Americas shift to a clean economy.
FOUND OUT MORE: Up-and-Comer Developer Makes Headway without the Banks ( Chicago Sun-Times, August 27, 2021).
What inspired you to begin your company?
I had 2 essential 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 manage the gas bill. And so, regrettably, we had our gas and heat shut down. For around a year in my teenagers, we needed to boil water and carry it as much as a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were distinctively difficult times, and experiences like that simply stick to you. I do not care what takes place the rest of your profession or what your quality of life is moving forward; those minutes are with you permanently. As I speak about that with various groups around the country, it has actually become clear that my experience is not an abnormality. A great deal of people have similar anecdotes, and thats not an advantage
.
The second turning point was most likely 15 years ago, as I was working for a firm that was buying a host of things worldwide. Individuals were can be found in to ask for an investment around sustainable energy, and I posed a concern to them: “What you are finishing with these solar firms is incredible, and the cost of solar is boiling down, however how does that aid everyday individuals?” I asked, “Where are they in your formula? Where is their gain access to? They are paying a disproportionate amount of their earnings on energy.” They looked puzzled that I would even attempt inquire about the daily people. They stated, “Well, you understand, low- and moderate-income families typically reside in multi-family structures, and it is difficult to get in contact with those developing owners. If you can not get in contact with the structure owners, you need to call specific households and the cost of getting those people informed and then registering for renewable resource is not a beneficial service design.” So, I asked, “What if I owned the housing development and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to change the market forever. 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 matured. So whatever is I do is targeted to households in those scenarios and concentrated on improving their lifestyle
.

What can companies like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting individuals in rooms together so everybody can share notes is always valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had a chance to speak directly with lenders and tax credit syndicators which is incredible. Then, if there are national corporations that can support our work that can also be a big deal. Were presently working on a partnership with Lowes, which is contributing about $1,000,000 worth of products to support our jobs. Normalizing exposure, standing next to us and stating “these communities are worthy of financial investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can prospective partners do service with you?
We are also constantly ready to host people if they want to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. We host people when a week at our building so they can see the technology that were using in neighborhoods that traditionally havent had gain access to. Im constantly challenging top executives to put their name and face on these efforts since I think that has genuine worth
.
How was your Accelerate subscription benefited you?
Its been excellent just to fulfill the other Accelerate member business. I learned a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and learning about individuals with absolutely various perspectives. I love the networking.
I believe we are doing the best we can do in the COVID environment. Feeling in ones bones that it exists, which ACORE is so deliberate about the program, makes a huge distinction.
###.

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

Share with us a current success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to announce that we will be constructing a $30 million, completely sustainable and entirely affordable development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 residential systems, a coffeehouse, a company center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered use in the city
.
What effect are you making?
When people learn who is behind our company, I think there is always a shock. Even in our own communities, individuals simply cant think it. To me, thats quite rewarding. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I think is necessary is we have an economic impact that resonates with people, and its a quite effective message. Were aiming to cut utility expenditures for families in half. Thats a huge deal, you know. That quantity of money effects the spending plan of everyday households
.
What challenges do you deal with? Why?
You cant avoid the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting a business, any organization, was going to be difficult. With that said, access to capital is ungodly challenging. 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 desire to invest; they dont want to partner; they dont want to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im attempting to eliminate here, and weve made extremely little, incremental development. I believe the lesson is that union structure is essential. My voice just means a lot, however the more I can bring friends to the table and amplify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the requirement
.

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

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the very first installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series. Each installation will feature 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 blog is the 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 countrys very first Black lady CEO in the neighborhood solar market. Under her leadership, WeSolar is growing quickly, providing customers across Maryland and the District of Columbia access to budget-friendly solar power, regardless of home type, and helping hard-working families minimize month-to-month expenses.
What inspired you to start your business?
I was at a community meeting with 50 Black females organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar motion. 36% of Black homes experience a high energy burden, suggesting they invest over 6% of their earnings on home energy expenses. 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 company?
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced communities inexpensive access to local neighborhood solar and to assist commercial homes with energy effectiveness. In Maryland, lawmakers passed legislation that states 50 percent of its electrical energy must come from eco-friendly energy sources by 2030.
What difficulties do you deal with? Why?
To a neighborhood that is currently dealing with so numerous pressing challenges, encouraging them that there is another one just as crucial is extremely hard. I keep in mind attempting to explain neighborhood solar to my buddies and the conversation quickly rotating to real estate. The reality of the matter is, institutional racism and oppression are larger than we understand, and it drowns our neighborhood. Where Black people are not being bought, we are being asked to prioritize constantly for our survival.
Please share with us a recent business success story.
When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I wanted to ensure city citizens were getting the exact same amount of investment as the county. Eco-friendly 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 linked me with the individuals I needed to link with in order to make this partnership successful.
To get more information about WeSolar, see wesolar.energy
###

I was at a neighborhood conference with 50 Black women organizers who were not invested in the community solar motion. To be able to offer a product that will save our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced communities budget-friendly access to regional neighborhood solar and to help business properties with energy performance. When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I wanted to guarantee city locals were receiving the exact same amount of investment as the county. Renewable energy has traditionally been a middle-class issue since Black neighborhoods have had to live in survival mode, however Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and connected me with the individuals I required to link with in order to make this partnership successful.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced structure techniques to the sustainable energy market. I desire to decrease the amount of green area used to support the development of sustainable energy around the world and assistance bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader provides our customers access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our ability to shape the country each and every day.
Sole Trader is a varied, expert, leading-edge renewable energy business with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and upkeep. And we believe energy independence is the crucial to green development.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is delighted to share the 2nd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation will include industry leaders and subjects related to accelerating an equitable and simply shift to an eco-friendly energy economy.
In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member companies are growing in the sustainable energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned eco-friendly energy company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists federal governments, energies and co-ops integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to begin your business?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced structure strategies to the renewable energy industry. I desire to minimize the quantity of green area used to support the growth of renewable energy around the globe and aid bring our industry into the future. I founded this company after working for a number of large utilities and understanding that the old model will not get us to where we need to be as a nation. We require vibrant, unencumbered idea that embraces the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein said, “Logic will get you from A to Z; creativity will get you all over.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an effect through your company?
We are altering the method co-ops, governments and energies consider powering the future of this terrific nation. We buy finding and using tested, emerging technologies from around the globe that can be used to power the present and the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to tidy energy, and we are motivating the next generation with our capability to shape the nation each and every day.
Inform us about your business?
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge eco-friendly energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. Our team of utility experts assists us decrease building and construction costs and timelines for our customers. We can likewise provide consulting and tactical planning services, website recognition and preparation, building and construction, operations and maintenance, devices recycling, cybersecurity, site start-up or shutdown, therefore much more.
Exists anything else you wish to show ACORE members and partners?
There is no difficulty small or too big for us. We welcome chances to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our substantial lessons learned and our proven brand-new innovations. We can help our customers think differently about their neighborhood and the world. We like to say, “We offer you more power over your power.” And our company believe energy self-reliance is the crucial to green development.
To read more about Sole Trader, see 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 constantly valuable. Normalizing direct exposure, standing next to us and stating “these neighborhoods are deserving of financial investment”– you cant put a value on that
.
How can possible partners do business with you?
We are also always willing to host individuals 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 using in communities that historically have not had access. Im constantly challenging top executives to put their name and face on these efforts because I think that has real worth
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been fantastic simply to satisfy the other Accelerate member business. I learned a lot from having conversations with them in real-time, and learning about individuals with completely various viewpoints. I love the networking.
I believe we are doing the very best we can do in the COVID environment. Simply understanding that it exists, which ACORE is so intentional about the program, makes a big distinction.
###.

Inform us about your company? (mission, partners, regions you run in, primary consumers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations accessible for all: all neighborhoods, all families, everybody must have gain access to. Someone, some entity, has to function as the bridge so that those innovations reach everybody. Thats what my objective is, and luckily we are growing. We are presently headquartered in Chicago, however we will be revealing some brand-new locations this fall
.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture thanks to Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the third installment in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series.
Each installation includes market leaders and topics associated with accelerating a fair and simply shift to a sustainable energy economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features highlight how 3 Black-owned Accelerate member business are flourishing in the renewable energy sector.
Robert “A.J.” Patton is a financing, sales, and capital markets specialist with more than a decade of experience in investment banking, endowment management, and genuine estate analysis. In May 2016, A.J. established 548 Capital, LLC, to integrate his knowledge and track record of developing consistent returns with an individual enthusiasm for helping transform communities and their effect on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his 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 business?
I had 2 essential minutes that made me jump. In 1999, my mom got a $400 gas costs, and she was just making 10 dollars an hour, so we could not pay for the gas bill. Therefore, regrettably, we had our gas and heat shut down. For approximately a year in my teenagers, we had to boil water and carry it up to a porcelain tub to take a bath. Those were distinctively bumpy rides, and experiences like that simply stick to you. I dont care what occurs the rest of your profession or what your lifestyle is moving on; those minutes are with you permanently. As I talk about that with various groups around the country, it has ended up being clear that my experience is not an abnormality. A lot of people have similar anecdotes, whichs not a good thing
.
The second essential minute was most likely 15 years back, as I was working for a firm that was investing in a host of things worldwide. Individuals were can be found in to request for an investment around renewable energy, and I positioned a concern to them: “What you are doing with these solar companies is magnificent, and the cost of solar is boiling down, however how does that assistance daily individuals?” I asked, “Where are they in your formula? Where is their access? They are paying an out of proportion amount of their earnings on energy.” They looked confused that I would even dare inquire about the daily individuals. They said, “Well, you understand, low- and moderate-income households typically reside in multi-family structures, and it is difficult to get in contact with those building owners. If you can not get in contact with the structure owners, you have to contact private families and the cost of getting those people educated and then subscribing to renewable energy is not a beneficial service model.” I asked, “What if I owned the housing advancement and the solar?” And they said, whoever does that is going to change the marketplace forever. I stopped my task. I think I kipped down my resignation within six months of that conversation, and I started my company. Since that is the system number in the public housing where I grew up, I named it 548 Capital. Whatever is I do is targeted to households in those circumstances and focused on enhancing their quality of life
.

I believe there is constantly a shock when individuals learn who is behind our business. Even in our own neighborhoods, people just cant believe it. Putting people in spaces together so everybody can share notes is always important. We are likewise constantly willing to host individuals if they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. We host people once a week at our structure so they can see the innovation that were using in neighborhoods that historically have not had gain access to.

Show us a recent success story.
We recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for an interview to reveal that we will be constructing a $30 million, completely affordable and totally sustainable development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are developing 50 residential units, a coffee shop, a service center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will broaden solar-powered usage in the city
.
What impact are you making?
I believe there is always a shock when individuals discover who is behind our company. Even in our own communities, people simply cant think it. To me, thats pretty gratifying. People seeing whos behind 548 Capital matters.
The other thing that I believe is essential is we have an economic effect that resonates with individuals, and its a quite effective message. That amount of cash effects the spending plan of daily families
.
What obstacles do you face? Why?
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 incorrect language. These neighborhoods are still being red-lined. I think the lesson is that union structure is crucial.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the first installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog site series. Each installation will include market leaders and topics connected to accelerating an equitable and just shift to a renewable resource economy. In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August blog 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 management, WeSolar is growing rapidly, offering consumers across Maryland and the District of Columbia access to budget-friendly solar power, regardless of house type, and helping hard-working families reduce monthly costs.
What inspired you to begin your business?
I was at a community meeting with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not invested in the community solar motion. 36% of Black households experience a high energy burden, indicating they spend over 6% of their earnings on home energy costs. To be able to provide an item that will conserve our neighborhood up to 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
Tell us about your business?
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods inexpensive access to local community solar and to help commercial homes with energy effectiveness. WeSolar released in Baltimore and will expand to other cities in the future. Through WeSolar, electricity customers can buy shared solar from a regional task without needing to install any equipment in their houses. In turn, residents save hundreds on their electricity costs. In Maryland, legislators passed legislation that mentions 50 percent of its electrical energy need to come from renewable resource sources by 2030.
What challenges do you face? Why?
To a neighborhood that is already dealing with so lots of pressing difficulties, encouraging them that there is another one just as crucial is really challenging. I keep in mind attempting to discuss neighborhood solar to my good friends and the conversation quickly rotating to housing.
Please share with us a recent business success story.
When I initially moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I wanted to guarantee city locals were getting the very same amount of investment as the county. Sustainable energy has actually traditionally been a middle-class concern 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 required to link with in order to make this partnership successful.
To read more about WeSolar, check out wesolar.energy
###

I was at a community conference with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not invested in the community solar motion. To be able to offer an item that will conserve our community up to 60% on their energy expenses is transformative.
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced communities budget-friendly access to regional neighborhood solar and to help business properties with energy effectiveness. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was introduced, and I wanted to make sure city locals were getting the same amount of financial investment as the county. Renewable energy has traditionally been a middle-class concern due to the fact that Black communities have actually had to live in survival mode, however Reverend Mason and Reverend Dewitt brought me into the circle and linked me with the people I needed to connect with in order to make this collaboration effective.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 30, 2021

A drive to bring ingenious technologies and advanced building methods to the sustainable energy industry. I desire to lower the amount of green area used to support the growth of sustainable 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 company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, building and construction, operations and maintenance. And we think energy independence is the key to green development.

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the 2nd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installation will include market leaders and topics connected to accelerating a fair 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 thriving in the eco-friendly energy sector.
Kevin Butler, PMP, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Sole Trader Renewable Energy LLC, a minority- and veteran-owned sustainable energy business based in Memphis, Tennessee. Sole Trader assists co-ops, utilities and federal governments incorporate renewables into their energy portfolios
.
What inspired you to start your business?
A drive to bring innovative technologies and advanced structure methods to the renewable energy industry. I want to decrease the amount of green area utilized to support the development of renewable resource around the globe and assistance bring our market into the future. I founded this company after working for a number of big utilities and recognizing that the old model will not get us to where we need to be as a nation. 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; 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 method governments, utilities and co-ops consider powering the future of this terrific nation. We invest in finding and using tested, emerging innovations from around the globe that can be utilized to power the present and the future. Sole Trader offers our clients access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to form the country each and every day.
Tell us about your company?
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge renewable resource company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and upkeep. Our team of energy specialists assists us decrease building expenses and timelines for our clients. We can also provide consulting and strategic preparation services, website recognition and preparation, building and construction, operations and maintenance, devices recycling, cybersecurity, site startup or shutdown, and so a lot more.
Exists anything else you would like to share with ACORE members and partners?
There is no challenge too big or small for us. We accept chances to bring our clients into the future, utilizing our substantial lessons learned and our proven brand-new technologies. We can help our customers think differently about their neighborhood and the world. We like to state, “We give you more power over your power.” And our company believe energy self-reliance is the essential to green development.
To learn more about Sole Trader, see soletraderenergy.org.
###.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 31, 2021
Picture courtesy of Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is happy to share the 3rd installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series.
Each installment includes market leaders and subjects associated with speeding up a fair and just shift to a renewable resource economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August functions highlight how three Black-owned Accelerate member business are growing 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 property analysis. In May 2016, A.J. founded 548 Capital, LLC, to combine his proficiency and performance history of developing constant returns with a personal enthusiasm for helping transform communities and their impact on the planet. In 2019, Patton was called a recipient of the Energy News 40 Under 40 award– highlighting his effect on Americas transition to a 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 2 critical 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 pay for the gas bill. A lot of people have comparable anecdotes, and thats not a good thing
.
The second turning point was most likely 15 years back, as I was working for a firm that was buying a host of things around the world. People were being available in to request for an investment around eco-friendly energy, and I posed a concern to them: “What you are making with these solar firms is magnificent, and the cost of solar is coming down, but how does that help daily individuals?” I asked, “Where are they in your formula? Where is their access? They are paying a disproportionate amount of their income 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 often reside in multi-family buildings, and it is hard to get in contact with those constructing owners. If you can not get in contact with the building owners, you need to call individual families and the cost of getting those people informed and after that subscribing to sustainable energy is not a favorable service design.” I asked, “What if I owned the real estate development and the solar?” And they stated, whoever does that is going to alter the marketplace permanently. I stopped my task. I think I turned in my resignation within 6 months of that discussion, and I started my company. Because that is the system number in the public housing where I grew up, I called it 548 Capital. Everything is I do is targeted to families in those scenarios and focused on enhancing their quality of life
.

Inform us about your company? (objective, partners, regions you run in, main consumers, etc.).
The vision of 548 Capital is to make sustainable innovations available for all: all communities, all families, everybody should have gain access to. Somebody, some entity, has to act as the bridge so that those innovations reach everyone. Thats what my mission is, and thankfully we are growing. We are presently headquartered in Chicago, however we will be announcing some brand-new areas this fall
.

Share with us a current success story.
We just recently signed up with Mayor Lightfoot for a press conference to reveal that we will be building a $30 million, entirely cost effective and completely sustainable development, in partnership with the City of Chicago. We are building 50 residential systems, a coffee store, a business center, all on the South Side of Chicago, which will expand solar-powered usage in the city
.
What effect are you making?
I think there is constantly a shock when individuals learn who is behind our business. Even in our own communities, people simply cant think it.
The other thing that I believe is very important is we have an economic effect that resonates with people, and its a quite powerful message. Were aiming to cut utility expenditures for families in half. Thats a big offer, you know. That amount of cash impacts the spending plan of daily families
.
What obstacles do you face? Why?
You cant avoid the grind. Let me acknowledge that starting an organization, any service, was going to be hard. With that stated, access to capital is ungodly difficult. When I go to banks and say that were constructing sustainable real estate in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, they look at me like Ive spoken the wrong language. These communities are still being red-lined. Some banks do not want to invest; they do not wish to partner; they dont wish to do their share. It is a battle of generational size that Im trying to combat here, and weve made very small, incremental development. I believe the lesson is that coalition structure is necessary. My voice only suggests a lot, but the more I can bring good friends to the table and amplify that voice, the more we can raise attention to the need
.

What can organizations like ACORE do to move that needle for you, to break down that barrier?
Putting individuals in spaces together so everybody can share notes is constantly valuable. Through the Accelerate program, weve had an opportunity to speak directly with bankers and tax credit syndicators which is magnificent. If there are national corporations that can support our work that can also be a huge deal. Were presently dealing with a collaboration with Lowes, which is contributing about $1,000,000 worth of products to support our tasks. Normalizing exposure, standing beside us and saying “these neighborhoods are worthwhile of financial investment”– you cant put a worth on that
.
How can possible partners do business with you?
We are likewise always prepared to host people if they want to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these communities. We host individuals once a week at our building so they can see the innovation that were applying in communities that traditionally havent had access. Im constantly tough top executives to put their name and face on these efforts since I believe that has real worth
.
How was your Accelerate membership benefited you?
Its been great just to fulfill the other Accelerate member companies. I discovered a lot from having discussions with them in real-time, and finding out about individuals with absolutely various viewpoints. I like 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 intentional about the program, makes a big difference.
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I think there is always a shock when individuals discover who is behind our company. Even in our own neighborhoods, people simply cant think it. Putting people in rooms together so everyone can share notes is constantly important. We are also always ready to host individuals if they desire to see some of the sustainable innovation we are putting in these neighborhoods. We host individuals when a week at our structure so they can see the technology that were using in communities that historically have not had gain access to.

By Constance ThompsonAugust 27, 2021
The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is pleased to share the first installation in our “Accelerating Renewables” blog series. Each installment will include industry leaders and subjects connected to accelerating an equitable and simply transition to an eco-friendly energy economy. In acknowledgment of National Black Business Month, our August blog site is the first in a series highlighting how Black-owned member business are prospering 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 leadership, WeSolar is growing rapidly, offering consumers throughout Maryland and the District of Columbia access to budget friendly solar power, despite home type, and assisting hard-working households lower monthly costs.
What inspired you to start your business?
The stark fact that most of families who were receiving sustainable energy incentives were higher earnings. I remember discovering this and thinking there had to be a method to resolve this space. I saw there was an issue. I had my own concepts on how to solve it, and I wished to have company over my own decisions. I was at a community conference with 50 Black women organizers who were not bought the community solar movement. As soon as I started to explain how crucial and urgent it was for us to be a part of the solar movement, it felt like a lightbulb had actually turned on for me. I began demonstrating how higher-income neighborhoods and individuals in the suburban areas were benefiting from sustainable tax rewards and had received a lots of support. The truth is, energy use impacts Black household budgets considerably. 36% of Black households experience a high energy concern, meaning they invest over 6% of their income on home energy expenses. Thats an enormous portion. To be able to use an item that will save our community approximately 60% on their energy costs is transformative.
Inform us about your company?
WeSolars mission is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods economical access to regional neighborhood solar and to assist commercial residential or commercial properties with energy performance. In Maryland, legislators passed legislation that mentions 50 percent of its electricity must come from renewable energy sources by 2030.
What difficulties do you face? Why?
To a community that is currently dealing with so numerous pressing difficulties, persuading them that there is another one just as essential is very challenging. I remember trying to describe neighborhood solar to my good friends and the discussion quickly rotating to real estate.
Please show 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 citizens were receiving the same amount of investment as the county. Renewable energy has actually historically been a middle-class concern since Black neighborhoods have actually had to live in survival mode, however 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.
To get more information about WeSolar, see wesolar.energy
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I was at a community meeting with 50 Black ladies organizers who were not invested in the neighborhood solar movement. To be able to offer an item that will conserve our community up to 60% on their energy bills is transformative.
WeSolars objective is to bring under-resourced neighborhoods economical access to local neighborhood solar and to assist industrial residential or commercial properties with energy effectiveness. When I first moved to Baltimore, the Community Solar Pilot Program was released, and I wanted to guarantee city citizens were receiving the exact same quantity of financial investment as the county. Eco-friendly energy has historically been a middle-class concern 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 required to link with in order to make this collaboration effective.

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 installment will feature market leaders and subjects related to speeding up a fair and just transition to a renewable resource economy.
In recognition of National Black Business Month, our August features 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 helps co-ops, governments and utilities integrate renewables into their energy portfolios
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What inspired you to begin your business?
A drive to bring ingenious innovations and advanced building techniques to the renewable resource market. I wish to minimize the quantity of green space used to support the growth of renewable resource around the globe and help bring our market into the future. I founded this business after working for a number of large utilities and realizing that the old design will not get us to where we need to be as a country. We require dynamic, unencumbered idea that accepts the possibility of where we can go. Albert Einstein said, “Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you all over.” This is the genesis of Sole Trader.
How are you making an effect through your company?
We are altering the way utilities, co-ops and governments think about powering the future of this terrific nation. We purchase finding and making use of tested, emerging innovations from around the world that can be utilized to power today and the future. Sole Trader gives 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 business?
Sole Trader is a diverse, professional, leading-edge sustainable energy company with 200+ combined years of experience covering power generation, construction, operations and maintenance. Our group of utility professionals assists us minimize building and construction costs and timelines for our clients. We can also supply consulting and tactical preparation services, site recognition and preparation, construction, operations and maintenance, equipment recycling, cybersecurity, site start-up or shutdown, therefore a lot more.
Is there anything else you would like to show ACORE members and partners?
There is no challenge too large or small for us. We welcome opportunities to bring our clients into the future, using our extensive lessons found out and our proven new innovations. We can help our clients think differently about their community and the world. We like to say, “We provide you more power over your power.” And our company believe energy self-reliance is the essential to green growth.
To discover more about Sole Trader, check out soletraderenergy.org.
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A drive to bring innovative innovations and advanced structure methods to the sustainable energy industry. I desire to reduce the quantity of green space utilized to support the development of eco-friendly energy around the world and help bring our industry into the future. Sole Trader gives our clients access to tidy energy, and we are inspiring the next generation with our ability to form the nation each and every day.
Sole Trader is a diverse, expert, leading-edge eco-friendly energy company with 200+ integrated years of experience covering power generation, building, operations and maintenance. And we think energy independence is the key to green growth.