Soul Power program wins local grant and plans solar fair; commission hears solar training opportunities

At the March 12 meeting, the commission heard a multi-part update on community solar and workforce programming.

A program representative (Danita Scully) reported that Soul Power received a $3,000 grant from the Michigan City Community Enrichment Corporation and that the program will pursue additional EPA funding. She said the NAACP and the Hope program are planning a green energy and solar-industrial fair on April 22, 2026, at the Hope program on the city’s west side and encouraged participants to "save the date." The program is recruiting advisory board members; Danita provided a public contact during the meeting for those interested in joining the advisory board.

Commissioners also discussed a Solar United Neighbors Indiana series titled "2026 Indiana Ready Set Solar," an eight-session Solar 101 course starting March 19 via Zoom intended to educate homeowners, churches and community organizations about solar basics, installation considerations and local programs. Nancy Moldenhower described the series as a good opportunity for residents to become better informed about residential or institutional solar.

On certification and outreach, Tristan reported National Wildlife Federation enrollment and program-metric progress (habitat points and education/outreach tallies) and commissioners said more community signups will be needed for re-certification goals.

The commission’s discussion emphasized training, grant-seeking and public events to broaden participation in local solar and energy-efficiency programs; no formal vote was taken.