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Empowering Minority-Serving Institutions to Lead Clean Energy Initiatives

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Clean Energy Fund of Texas (CEFTX) has beckoned institutions of higher education, particularly those classified as Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), to take the reins in driving forward clean energy solutions. This endeavor, aptly named CHARGE (Communities Helping America Renew and Grow the Economy), comes with a staggering $156 million in funding dedicated to community-centric solar and battery storage projects spanning 18 states and Washington, D.C.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), and tribal colleges (TCUs) stand out as pivotal players in this initiative, which seeks to spur a significant reduction in energy costs while simultaneously catalyzing local economic growth and job creation. According to Teresa Morales, the Program Director of CHARGE, “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to empower communities served by these institutions through strategic investments in solar energy infrastructure.” With their deep-rooted connections within local communities, MSIs are well-positioned to lead this charge, quite literally.

The Vision Behind CHARGE

CHARGE not only aims to furnish campuses with solar energy solutions but also envisions a transformation in how these institutions engage with their communities. The initiative plans to support:

• - 40 community solar projects generating up to 95 MW of power and 48 MWh of storage.
• - Approximately 8,870 households could save 25% on energy bills, leading to an anticipated $77 million in total household savings.
• - The creation of 1,900 jobs and the development of $137 million in community wealth through models of shared ownership.
• - An impressive 3.14 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions avoided, equivalent to removing about 700,000 cars from the roads for a year.

These tangible benefits not only bolster the local economies but also contribute to a cleaner environment, which is imperative for current and future generations.

Job Creation and Educational Opportunities

A noteworthy highlight of the program includes the establishment of hands-on training programs designed within the campuses. These programs aim to create a robust pipeline of talent equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in the burgeoning clean energy sector. Students will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with projects, gaining firsthand experience in both practical and theoretical aspects of sustainable energy solutions.

As institutions develop these training initiatives, they will not only generate skilled workers for the clean energy economy but will also instill a sense of environmental stewardship within the student body. The ultimate goal is to prepare these students to become the next generation of leaders in the clean energy landscape.

Eligibility and Opportunities

MSIs across Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia are eligible to apply for CHARGE funding. By stepping forward to participate, these institutions can significantly contribute to the realization of a sustainable and economically empowered community.

To explore more about the program and express interest in funding, institutions can visit the Clean Energy Fund of Texas website.

About the Clean Energy Fund of Texas

The Clean Energy Fund of Texas (CEFTX) is at the forefront of advocating for clean energy solutions, striving to involve all Americans in the transition towards a more sustainable energy economy. CEFTX offers low-cost solutions for homes, offices, and communities, aiming to reduce energy costs, create quality jobs, and stimulate economic development in historically under-resourced areas. By supporting community and industry partnerships, CEFTX is dedicated to catalyzing the shift towards a clean energy future.

For more information about CEFTX and its initiatives, visit their About page, and follow them on social media to stay updated on their progress and achievements.