Sparking Change, One Neighborhood at a Time

In partnership with The City of Newark Office of Sustainability, SolarOne and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and local Newark-based entrepreneurs, I co-led the Newark Resilient Solar Initiative. Launched in Spring 2024, this transformative project aims to increase climate resilience in Newark’s most vulnerable neighborhoods while offering job training and educational opportunities. By deploying resilient solar systems and training up to 52 high school interns, the initiative is positively impacting over 800 students and their communities. I had the honor of presenting this initiative to over 100 peers at NASA’s Wild Center in Tupper Lake, NY, further showcasing Newark’s leadership in sustainable, community-driven projects.

Process & Approach: The Newark Resilient Solar Initiative arose from the need to address climate resilience and career readiness in Newark's most vulnerable neighborhoods. In partnership with SolarOne, the Newark Office of Sustainability, NOAA, and Newark-based entrepreneurs, the project focuses on constructing resilient solar systems equipped with solar plus battery storage to provide reliable power during outages—critical in areas prone to extreme weather. These systems are strategically placed at community hubs like gardens, where they can serve as both energy solutions and educational tools.

A key aspect of this initiative is workforce development. Up to 52 Newark high school interns are being trained in solar installation, gaining hands-on experience and career readiness in the renewable energy sector. This program is complemented by climate literacy and solar workforce training for 800 Newark Public School students and 9 teachers, giving them the skills needed for future careers in the energy sector.

The initiative’s unique approach incorporates community engagement at every level. Each solar installation is celebrated with a community event featuring NOAA assets to raise awareness of climate risks and promote environmental literacy. These events bring together local residents, community organizations, and environmental leaders to discuss climate resilience, emergency preparedness, and community cohesion.

Additionally, we collaborated directly with Newark-based business owners and entrepreneurs for supplies, services, and support, ensuring that the economic benefits of this project stayed within the local economy. Local suppliers were tapped for equipment, materials, and logistical needs, fostering entrepreneurship and sustainability within the city.

In Spring 2024, I had the privilege of presenting the Newark Resilient Solar Initiative to over 100 peers at NASA’s Wild Center in Tupper Lake, NY. This opportunity to share Newark's climate resilience approach on a national stage generated widespread interest and demonstrated the value of local, community-driven solutions to climate change.

Results & Impact: The Newark Resilient Solar Initiative has already had a tangible impact on the community. Over 1,000 people have been directly engaged through training programs, solar installations, and community events. The initiative is addressing immediate climate resilience needs while creating pathways for long-term economic success. With 800 students and 9 teachers trained in climate literacy and solar workforce development, the project is positioning Newark as a leader in renewable energy and environmental justice.

Each solar system installed provides Newark residents with access to electricity during power outages, ensuring a safer, more resilient community. The program has also empowered young people by equipping them with valuable skills in a high-demand, growing field—renewable energy. Additionally, the collaboration with local businesses not only supported the success of the initiative but also helped stimulate the local economy.

Lessons Learned: This project reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in solving complex urban challenges. Partnering with organizations like SolarOne, NOAA, local schools, and Newark-based business owners has allowed the initiative to address multiple issues—climate resilience, job readiness, education, and economic empowerment—simultaneously. These cross-sector partnerships have been instrumental in creating a scalable model that can be replicated in other communities.

Equally important was the role of community engagement and education. By involving residents in both the development and the educational aspects of the initiative, we’ve empowered Newarkers with the knowledge and tools to become leaders in their communities and the renewable energy sector.

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