A global conversation about climate change has grown over the past decade, as scientists and politicians discuss the causes and impacts of a changing planet. At the community level, residents and business owners in North Philadelphia experience the impacts of climate on a daily basis. Hunting Park and surrounding neighborhoods have a different experience with the physical environment than other greener communities. With low tree canopy and relatively few green spaces, Hunting Park is the hottest neighborhood in Philadelphia in the summertime. On average, temperatures can be up to 15 degrees hotter than in areas with more trees, greenery, and shade.
This reality has implications for energy usage and cost. Low-income families in Hunting Park, who already struggle to afford necessities, have to use more air conditioning to be comfortable in their homes. The greater usage of air conditioning not only has the potential to cause unaffordable electricity bills and financial strain, but it also contributes to the original problem – the use of more fossil fuels, understood to be the underlying cause of climate change. Families’ response to the problem of heat therefore worsens conditions over the long term.
As a response to these challenges, Reverend Allen Drew of the Climate Witness Project has convened a grassroots coalition to advance the Hunting Park Community Solar Initiative (HPCSI). Over the past year and a half, the HPSCI has implemented several initiatives to begin spreading awareness of the benefits of solar energy, and the ways Hunting Park and surrounding neighborhoods can access solar energy technology. A workshop series educated community members about climate change, environmental justice, and solar energy as one means of addressing the problem of heat and high energy costs. HPCSI members also attended community events to distribute information and build an informed network of neighbors. The HPCSI also works with solar energy companies and funders, to create opportunities for affordable solar panels on community members’ homes and businesses.
Now, for the first time, the HPCSI is launching a program to train solar panel installers. The 10-week program, taught by a staff member from Soular Tech, will give participants the basic skills needed to enter a growing field. The training – which began its evening classes on Tuesday, March 29th – is taking place at the Vocatio Career Prep High School on 6th Street in Hunting Park. Classroom sessions are scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday evenings, with hands-on instruction in solar energy technology and panel installation, as well as OSHA 10 certification. Companies such as Philadelphia-based Solar States are on hand to provide pathways into jobs in the industry, as well as training curriculum support. A small classroom size of 8 participants ensures individualized attention during the learning experience.
HPCSI intends to continue and grow the program in subsequent months. Hunting Park or surrounding community members who are interested in learning more about the solar energy job training, other HPCSI workshops, and other opportunities for engagement can reach out to allencwp12@gmail.com
