The vision: a future in which energy is clean, local, equitable, affordable, and reliable … for everyone. SUN is catalyzing a grassroots clean energy movement, connecting citizens with the tools and resources they need to start renewable energy projects in their communities. At its core are co-ops in which groups of neighbors “go solar” together and get a bulk discount, making solar more affordable and accessible, and benefitting the local economy. SUN also manages the process with the installer – but that’s just the beginning. Co-op members are encouraged to take part in educational programs, volunteer work, and advocacy. The result: a network of empowered citizens who fight for energy rights and achieve significant policy wins. Now working in five states (including Maryland and Virginia) and in DC, SUN is paving the way to a clean energy future for us all.

Headquarters: DC-Ward 2

Where They Operate: DC-Citywide; MD-Statewide; VA-Statewide

Age Groups Served: Pre-teen/teen (12-17); Young adult (18-24); Adult (25-49); Seniors (50+)

Population(s) Served: Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members


  • Number of households we help to go solar annually:   1,000
  • Private investment in solar we facilitate annually:   $24,00,000
  • Number of people we engage in solar education annually:   6,000
  • Carbon emissions avoided annually through our work (pounds):   23,518,020
  • Solar jobs created by our work to-date:   515

Awards & Recognition

White House Champion of Change for Solar Deployment (2014)

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Climate and Energy Leadership Award (2015)

Interstate Renewable Energy Council Action Hero (2015)

Chesapeake Climate Action Network Climate Champion (2011)

MDV-SEIA Solar Champion (2009)

CALFinder Amazing Activist in the Name of Solar (2009)

Press

Budget (FY2016)

  • $3 million or higher
  • The current budget for Solar United Neighbors is: $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to $3 million. This graphic indicates the budget range of the organization featured here. If you see an organizational budget above the $3 million mark, that is because the featured charity has grown in size since it first appeared in the Catalogue. We proudly present on our website the work of these "growth" charities.

About the Catalogue for Philanthropy

Each year 120 expert reviewers evaluate applicants for distinction, merit, and impact. Each featured charity has been successfully site visited and its financials given the thumbs up. The Catalogue for Philanthropy charges no fees and raises funds separately to support its work. Since 2003, it has raised over $40 million for charities across the Greater Washington region.

The Catalogue for Philanthropy looks to friends like you to keep our services independent and entirely free of charge. Consider a small contribution to the Catalogue to cap off your gift and help the causes you care about get the full support they deserve!

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