In the dynamic landscape of America's solar and storage industry, a significant transformation is underway, bringing forth opportunities across the nation. The rapid growth, however, must be purposeful to ensure equitable development throughout this transition.
Prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) programming emerges as the key to achieving the industry's goals. It is the avenue through which wealth is distributed, upward mobility is facilitated, and support systems within the workplace evolve alongside industry growth. Additionally, it acts as a magnet for top talent, essential for establishing solar and storage as the dominant energy source in the economy.
This commitment to DEIJ is not only crucial at the industry level but also at the organizational level. Recognizing the workforce as a potent asset, companies find that well-executed diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts contribute to business success and the overall industry's advancement.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) spearheads the charge with its DEIJ Certification Program. Designed to encourage members and partners to take measured steps on DEIJ issues, the program has seen 52 organizations, including numerous solar companies, actively participating.
Every participant has undergone an inclusion assessment, with an impressive 88% having established a written DEIJ communications plan. The incorporation of mentorship programs is widespread, and nearly three-quarters of participants require unconscious bias training for hiring managers. Importantly, all 52 organizations are actively engaging with frontline communities impacted by energy development, either establishing or working on processes to collect feedback.
Each of these statistics represents tangible actions taken by companies on DEIJ, signifying substantial progress for the industry. Inclusion assessments, feedback processes, and mentorship programs contribute to improved retention rates and foster a more inclusive culture. As these initiatives expand, participating companies will witness the benefits, becoming more competitive in attracting top talent.
The commitment to DEIJ is evident across various segments of the industry, with developers, manufacturers, financiers, and service providers actively participating in the program, collectively propelling progress.
Noteworthy achievements include RES Group securing the highest level of certification, Platinum, after initially obtaining Bronze certification in 2021. RES Group's expanded affinity networks, revised bereavement policy, and adjusted metrics showcase their commitment to DEIJ.
Other companies like Encore Renewable Energy and OneEnergy Renewables have achieved Gold, while many more have completed the Silver and Bronze certifications. SEIA itself has actively participated, achieving Gold certification and expanding human resources offerings.
The DEIJ Certification Program, now in its third year, continues to evolve. SEIA has opened it to non-members and expanded module offerings to better meet industry needs, including modules on mentorship, LGBTQ+ inclusion, creating inclusive spaces, and strategies for attracting and retaining military veterans and spouses.
The collaboration with program partners, the Human Rights Campaign, and SHRM, along with insights shared by companies like Longroad Energy, Freedom Forever, and McCarthy during the webinar series, has contributed to the program's success.
Congratulations to all on their achievements. The progress made collectively is remarkable, and with ongoing collaboration, the solar and storage industry can continue to cultivate the most inclusive and equitable workforce in America.
The success of the solar and storage industry is intricately tied to these efforts. SEIA looks forward to further collaboration on the journey towards diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.
Abigail Ross Hopper, President and CEO, and Erika Symmonds, Vice President of Equity and Workforce Development, lead the charge at the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).
0 Comments