Renewing Sovereignty Project

About

Powering the Climate Revolution with Workers of Impact 

Between system-impacted communities and long-term careers in solar lies a chasm bigger than training alone can fill. For most individuals attending training, there are always additional needs – from housing, transportation, childcare, outstanding utility, and rent bills to foundational knowledge such as budgeting and financial literacy.

RSP closes this gap with barrier mitigation, mentorship, service connections, direct financial support, living wage stipends, and alumni services. From onboarding and recruiting to full-time employment, RSP helps individuals navigate life’s challenges while seeking their new solar energy career. 

This is the best thing that could have ever happened to me. After going to prison when I was young, I was carved out of a thousand different opportunities. My skills and drive didn’t matter – only my past did. This program gave me the opportunity I’ve been fighting for for years. I was employed by one of the top companies in the country before I even graduated.

ERIC | 2023 COHORT

Program

How it works

Our first cohort boasts a 100% placement rate in solar and adjacent industries! This year, we aim to train quadruple the number of community members — and support them through the process.

Partners

Our Partners

SEED FUNDER

Solar Developer Cultivate Power provided the seed funding and an incredible six year commitment to support The Renewing Sovereignty Project. This funding supports training, stipends, and staff capacity.

TRAINING PARTNERS

548 Foundation provides state-of-the-art solar and storage training, with trainees receiving certifications in NCCER, NABCEP, and OSHA 30.

INDUSTRY PARTNERS

We work directly with our hiring partners, including Knobelsdorff Energy and others around the country to ensure our graduates are not just hired into great careers, but supported in their transitions.

Community Partners

The Renewing Sovereignty Project is powered by the Chicago Coalition for Intercommunalism, CCIC, a group of 70+ grassroots organizations in Chicago, fighting for change for the people and planet. We recruit directly from our coalition partners to ensure our participants have a foundation from which to build their new lives.

Ready to get involved?

  • Check out Chicago Coalition for Intercommunalism here.

  • Join the Chicago Coalition for Intercommunalism as a developer, investor or other stakeholder! Contact Jacq to learn more.

  • Are you a contractor, subcontractor, or other integrated company? Join us for Career Day and have the first pick of graduates!

  • Contact us on meeting Minimum Equity Standard requirements.

  • We would love to hear from you. Reach out with any questions, comments, or additional information at Jacq@zealo.us