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Energy Champion Program

• Energy democracy & policy

About our training

At Solar United Neighbors, we’re a passionate team of solar organizers, educators, communicators, and policy and technology experts. We are neighbors and organizers, united in the mission to build an energy system that is fair, sustainable, and works for everyone. Our hands-on, state-based training programs empower individuals, organizations, and communities to engage in the critical work of energy justice.

Our free training programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each state while building a collective understanding of the power of energy democracy and providing practical tools for action. These programs are designed for nonprofit staff, community-based organizations (CBOs), and community leaders who are ready to learn, grow, and take action to make the energy transition more just and equitable.

Training topics

1. Understanding the energy system
2. Energy justice and the Just Transition
3. Energy policies and programs
4. Energy democracy and you!

Ready to get involved?

By joining our programs, you’ll be part of a growing movement of energy justice champions who are working together to ensure that the future of energy is democratic, sustainable, and equitable. 

Our energy champion training program includes:

• Virtual live sessions led by experts in the field
• Opportunities to network with fellow advocates
• Access to online resources to further enhance your learning 

Apply today and take the first step toward building a better, more just energy system in your state!

Upcoming programs

This training program is ideal for those looking to lead energy justice efforts in their communities or workplace, empowering participants to become the next generation of advocates working to transform the energy landscape in Massachusetts .

Massachusetts program overview

​​Our energy champion training program will train non-profit and CBO staff and community leaders on how the energy system works, the importance of energy justice, and how to identify opportunities to actively participate in clean energy decisions and projects that impact the communities they represent. The goal is for participants to leave with a deeper intersectional understanding of the just energy transition and how to be an effective advocate for energy justice. The curriculum will take on a train-the-trainer model to catalyze more energy justice champions to take action in Massachusetts. It is designed for five virtual 2-hour sessions.

New York training program overview

This curriculum is designed to educate participants on the concepts and importance of energy justice and energy democracy in New York. The goal is for participants to leave with a deeper intersectional understanding of the just energy transition and how to be an effective advocate for energy justice.  The curriculum will take on a train the trainer model, with the goal to catalyze more energy justice champions to take action in New York. This training is being facilitated by SUN staff and our partners at Solar One. Note: There are currently no NY cohorts running. Please check back soon for updates.

Program Application

New York Energy Champion Program Application: NOW CLOSED! Check back soon for more opportunities.

Massachusetts Energy Champion Program Application

Thank you for your interest in our Free Energy Champion  Program!
This program is designed to empower nonprofit staff, community-based organizations (CBOs), and community leaders to drive a just and equitable energy transition in their communities. Our curriculum is tailored to meet the unique needs of each state, building a collective understanding of energy democracy and providing practical tools for action. Please note that the training consists of 5 modules, each lasting approximately 2 hours. The modules will be delivered over 6-8 weeks. 

Please answer all questions thoughtfully and to the best of your ability.

Application Instructions:

The application form should take approximately 10 minutes to complete.
Please ensure that all required fields are filled out before submitting your application.

Application Deadline: March 6