#United States #Englewood #B Corporation #Clean Energy CU #Terri Mickelsen

Clean Energy Credit Union Becomes a Certified B Corporation

In a significant advancement towards fostering a more sustainable economy, Clean Energy Credit Union has proudly announced its certification as a B Corporation™ (B Corp). This milestone marks the institution's commitment to serving not just its members, but also the planet, as it joins a global community of businesses dedicated to social and environmental responsibility.

Founded in 2017, Clean Energy Credit Union has always aimed to reshape the financial landscape. Since its inception, the credit union has successfully facilitated over 14,000 clean energy loans, amounting to more than $261 million. These loans have collectively contributed to reducing approximately 1.1 million tons of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to the annual absorption capacity of over 1.4 million acres of U.S. forests. This achievement not only demonstrates the credit union's impact but also showcases its role in promoting clean energy solutions for a healthier planet.

Commitment to Values and Impact

Terri Mickelsen, CEO of Clean Energy Credit Union, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the certification, stating, "Becoming a Certified B Corporation is not just a milestone for us; it's a natural next step in our journey. Our members trust us to ensure their money makes a difference. This certification reaffirms that commitment and demonstrates that financial institutions can and should lead with values, purpose, and transparency."

The B Corp certification, awarded by the nonprofit organization B Lab, evaluates businesses based on their overall social and environmental performance. The assessment covers five essential areas: Governance, Workers, Community, Environment, and Customers. This rigorous process requires businesses to provide documented evidence of their sustainable practices and social responsibility.

A Part of a Global Movement

By becoming a B Corp, Clean Energy Credit Union joins an expanding network of over 8,000 certified corporations across 95 countries and over 160 industries. This network includes renowned companies such as Patagonia, The Guardian, Ben & Jerry's, and Seventh Generation, all committed to using their resources for good.

With this certification, Clean Energy CU underscores its motivation to make a meaningful difference through finance. As part of its ongoing mission, the credit union is dedicated to accelerating the transition to clean energy. By embedding social responsibility into its operational framework, the credit union ensures that its ethos of sustainability will endure,

fostering trust with its members while setting a standard for other financial institutions.

The Future of Clean Energy Financing

Looking ahead, Clean Energy Credit Union aims to expand its influence within the financial industry by advocating for transparency and ethical practices. The journey towards becoming a B Corp is part of a larger strategy to position itself as a leader in social and environmental responsibility. The certification emphasizes that purposeful banking is not just a business model but a necessity for navigating today's economic landscape.

In addition to their existing clean energy loan offerings, the credit union plans to develop new programs that further enhance its community impact and sustainability initiatives. By prioritizing ethical practices and environmental stewardship, Clean Energy Credit Union encourages a broader conversation about the vital role financial institutions can play in addressing climate change.

For further inquiries or to schedule an interview with Clean Energy Credit Union's leadership team, you can contact Nicole Burford, VP of Market Development and Sustainability, at [email protected] or call 720-479-7900.

In conclusion, Clean Energy Credit Union's B Corp certification not only highlights its commitment to social good but also serves as an inspiration for other financial entities seeking a path toward sustainability and responsible governance.