Climate & Equity
Solar is an energy solution that provides clean, reliable electricity, increases consumer choice, and helps homeowners and business owners save money on their utility bills. As a carbon-free electricity source, solar is also a critical component of our nation's effort to combat the climate crisis. SEIA works every day to promote an equitable transition to a clean energy future and ensure the benefits of solar energy are available to all communities.
Climate Change
As carbon and other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have increased dramatically in the past few decades, the threat of climate change has also grown. Solar energy is a renewable, carbon-free resource available in every geographic region of the U.S., with enormous potential to reduce our nation’s GHG emissions. Any market or policy proposal to address climate change should include significant development of solar and other clean energy technologies to power a clean, affordable economic future.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice
SEIA values diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice within our organization and the promotion of these values across the solar industry. SEIA envisions an industry that is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity at all levels. We aim to achieve this by encouraging openness and transparency about diversity issues and progress. We are developing strategies, programs, and tools that seek to equalize opportunities within SEIA and allow for discussing and sharing best practices within the solar industry as a whole.
SEIA's DEIJ Initiatives
SEIA values diversity, inclusion and equity within our organization and the promotion of these values across the solar industry. We believe that a diverse workforce creates a more resilient organization that supports a strong, equitable solar industry.
Additional Resources
SEIA's DEIJ Certification Program
Diverse Suppliers Database
Solar Industry Diversity Data
Low-Income Solar Access
As the national solar trade association, SEIA encourages solutions to maximize access to solar energy to all families and communities, regardless of zip code, income level, or any other factor. Many low and moderate income (LMI) communities are missing out on the benefits of solar + storage technologies. These benefits can include cost savings, resilience against natural disasters, health improvements and more. Intentional and thoughtful action – on the part of policymakers and private industry – is necessary to expand solar & its benefits to all Americans.
Expanding Access to Solar Energy
There are a variety of ways to increase solar access to low and moderate income communities, including community solar programs, tax policies, and more. SEIA is working with partners in the equity and environmental justice community to increase these opportunities in communities around the country.
Environmental Justice
As an industry that deploys clean, reliable, affordable electricity, SEIA recognizes the critical role for environmental justice in the energy transition, and the need for climate solutions to take into account the disproportionate impacts felt by frontline communities.
Solar & Environmental Justice
The clean energy economy must be centered around justice and equity for all Americans and support communities that have historically been left behind by environmental policies. But we can only achieve this just and equitable transition through intentional advocacy that prioritizes environmental justice and creates regenerative, sustainable economic wealth in local communities.
Featured Resources
Solar Industry Policy Principles on Environmental Justice & Equity
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