DOE Launches Solar Industry Communications AwardsThe U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the launch of a new award program to recognize solar industry communications campaigns that reach underrepresented audiences and have the potential to increase the diversity of solar adopters and the solar workforce. The American-Made Shine On Awards for Inclusive Solar Outreach (Shine On Awards) will support DOE efforts to expand the equitable adoption of solar energy, especially in underrepresented communities, and to increase the diversity of the solar workforce. Transitioning to solar energy can help households across the country save money on their electricity bills, reduce their environmental impact, and improve resilience, if paired with storage. Millions of Americans have experienced the benefits of solar, but many households have been left out because of lack of funds or low credit scores, language barriers, or lack of awareness. Adoption of solar, including residential and community solar, can reduce energy burden for individuals, especially those in frontline and disadvantaged communities. Energy burden is a primary metric to measure energy insecurity. “To meet the Administration’s goals to rapidly scale up the deployment of solar energy, we must make a concerted effort to expand outreach to broaden the profile of solar adopters,” said Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy. “We are excited to recognize creative solar communications campaigns that reflect the diversity of the American people.” Read more | 
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