Brooklyn residents facing high energy costs and housing challenges are getting a new boost through a community-driven energy equity initiative led by local nonprofits.
Brooklyn Org and United Way of New York City on Tuesday announced a multi-year program in partnership with the National Grid Foundation. The initiative is designed to directly involve communities in shaping solutions to energy affordability, housing stability and workforce access, moving beyond traditional top-down programs.
Brooklyn Org will lead the 24-month Brooklyn Energy Initiative, a program aimed at strengthening households, expanding workforce opportunities, and increasing access to trusted, transparent information about the borough’s changing energy landscape. The initiative focuses on two main tracks: workforce development and household support.
The Future of Energy initiative will provide eight nonprofits with $50,000 each to prepare young adults and early-career workers for careers in STEM and energy-related fields. Participants will receive technical training, green-skills development and job readiness programming, alongside direct exposure to energy systems through Energy Hub site visits coordinated with National Grid. The track aims to build sustainable career pathways while also strengthening local knowledge of clean energy practices.
The Future of Homes focuses on residents experiencing the highest energy burdens and poorest housing conditions. Six nonprofits will receive $50,000 each to provide support for emergency heating, energy efficiency upgrades and retrofitting projects.
“This initiative reflects what we know to be true - the most effective solutions are shaped by the communities closest to the challenges,” said Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, president and chief executive officer of Brooklyn Org. “We are grateful to continue our partnership with the National Grid Foundation in this new program, working together to invest in community-based nonprofits that are strengthening energy stability, workforce pathways and long-term equity across the borough.”
The program also emphasizes community conversations and education to help residents understand available resources, navigate assistance programs and make informed decisions about energy use and household sustainability.
