SunPower sets new goals for justice, diversity and equity

By Chris Crowell October 1, 2021 View Profile

SunPower Corp. has made a new commitment to bringing solar to marginalized communities. This new justice, diversity, equity and inclusion (JDE&I) initiative, SunPower 25X25, includes ambitious targets to achieve by 2025 – spanning workforce diversity, solar access expansion and dealer diversity programs.

Increasing workforce diversity: 40% of its workforce represented by women; 25% of its workforce represented by Black and Hispanic/Latinx people. An emphasis will be placed on workforce development programs for the company’s growing residential installation teams across the country.Expanding access for customers: 25% of its U.S. residential customers made up by people who live in historically marginalized communities. This includes the development of a new program to provide low-income customers with no interest loans. Ensuring industry equity: 25% of the dealers and subcontractors it works with will be owned by women and people of color. Includes establishment of a new dealer diversity program and creation of new partnerships with minority-owned business organizations

“Distributed solar and battery storage offer tremendous benefit to our environment, are vital in building a resilient energy infrastructure, can provide lower-cost electricity, and create good, well-paying jobs,” said Peter Faricy, CEO of SunPower. “We must use this moment-in-time to ensure the rapid deployment of this critical technology benefits all Americans.”

“Black professionals working in solar services have roots, relationships and experience in all communities, particularly those disproportionately impacted by climate change. If the solar industry is going to provide renewable energy access and equitable job opportunities, actively engaging black owned businesses is vital,” said Walter McLeod, founding board member of Black Owners of Solar Services. “We commend SunPower for committing to creating an intentionally diverse dealer and subcontractor network and raising the bar for others in the industry to do the same.”

Tags: SunPower

Source: https://solarbuildermag.com/news/sunpower-sets-new-goals-for-justice-diversity-and-equity/