Wells Fargo invests $2 million in GRID Alternatives to bring solar energy to communities

By: Steve Thursday August 16, 2012 0 comments Tags: Erica Mackie, GRID Alternatives, Mary Wenzel, Wells Fargo

SAN FRANCISCO - Wells Fargo and Company (NYSE: WFC) will invest $2 million over the next five years in GRID Alternatives to help bring clean, affordable solar energy to communities from California to Colorado that can benefit from energy solutions that are environmentally and economically sustainable, the banking company announced.

GRID Alternatives is a California-based nonprofit organization that aims to bring the benefits of solar technology to low-income communities.

"As part of our commitment to investing in environmental solutions for communities, we're proud to work together with GRID Alternatives to help them expand into Colorado and beyond," said Mary Wenzel, Wells Fargo's director of environmental affairs.

"GRID's unique delivery model offers many benefits to our communities, from decreasing electricity bills for homeowners to helping veterans and other unemployed community members gain job experience installing solar panels."

Since its inception in 2001, GRID Alternatives has installed solar electric systems in more than 2,200 homes and provided hands-on solar installation experience to 10,000 job trainees, veterans and volunteers.

"Low-income families are extremely vulnerable to fluctuations in energy prices,' said Erica Mackie, GRID Alternatives executive director and co-founder.

"Our model makes solar accessible to communities that need it most, not just the cost savings but the jobs and the environmental benefits, too. We are thrilled that Wells Fargo is investing in scaling our model beyond California."

For more information, visit www.gridalternatives.org.