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
- Do Solar Owners Love Solar the Way Gun Owners Love Guns?
Thu Oct 12 2017, Renewable Energy World
There has long been a need to mobilize and elevate voices of solar owners in energy policy. Solar United Neighbors is filling this gap.
- Group recruits standing solar army
Wed Oct 4 2017, PV Magazine
Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is building a solar homeowner coalition to help people go solar and protect solar rights across the country.
- Co-ops In Florida Make Rooftop Solar Possible For More People
Tue Sep 12 2017, CleanTechnica
Solar co-ops help customers save up to 20% on their solar installation while answering questions and providing neutral 3rd-party expert help
- Forty homeowners sign on for solar panel installation
Tue Aug 15 2017, The Winchester Star
Forty homeowners have joined the Upper Piedmont Solar Co-op, which selected VA-based installer Sigora Solar to install their solar arrays.
- D.C.'s Solar Energy Potential 'Vast,' New Report Says
Thu Apr 13 2017, WAMU 88.5
DC has vast potential for solar power, according to a new report, and harnessing it will create economic and environmental benefits.
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
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