The history of Black Americans is fundamental to the history, current state, and future of the U.S. solar and storage industry.

During Black History Month, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is dedicated to honoring the contributions of Black leaders, providing support to enhance representation, and pushing for policies that tackle the disparities within our energy systems.

Since the inception of clean energy, Black innovators have been instrumental in advancing energy technologies. Trailblazers such as Lewis Latimer have been instrumental in promoting distributed energy sources, while Black scientists like Annie Easley have contributed to enhancing solar PV projects and reducing costs.

With the evolution of the solar industry, Black leaders have spearheaded the shift towards clean, cost-effective solar energy. One such example is Kristal Hansley from WeSolar Energy, who made history as the first Black woman to establish a community solar company, overseeing projects across the Mid-Atlantic region. Black-owned solar enterprises and organizations led by Black individuals are also experiencing rapid expansion, fostering community engagement and catering to underrepresented demographics within the sector.

Currently, African Americans are influencing all facets of our sustainable energy future and making significant contributions to communities nationwide.

In order to tackle the disparities in our energy systems, SEIA has integrated equity into our advocacy efforts at both the state and federal levels. We have established crucial policy objectives centered on environmental justice, aiming to enhance health, wealth, and educational prospects while fostering a clean energy economy that is inclusive and advantageous for all communities.

As Black History Month draws to an end, we urge individuals in the energy sector to reflect on the justice implications of their actions and their role in advancing a fair and inclusive clean energy future for everyone.