NCAT Seeks Host Sites for Energy Corps Members

The National Center for Appropriate Technology is seeking non-profit organizations, schools and public agencies in Arkansas, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Montana and Texas to host Energy Corps AmeriCorps members for the 2012-2013 program year.

Serving as an Energy Corps AmeriCorps host site provides a unique opportunity to improve organizational and community capacity to address local energy needs. The Energy Corps also provides members with hands-on training and skills development to pursue a career in a green-collar workforce. 

“By forming collaborations with local non-profit organizations, community action agencies, local governments and energy service organizations, the Energy Corps program fosters community sustainability by addressing the challenges of rising energy prices and global climate change,” said Holly Hill, NCAT staff member and National Energy Corps Project Director.  “We tackle the energy needs of low-income, senior, minority and other disadvantaged groups at the grassroots level. The program promotes sustainable energy consumption and education, fosters community sustainability and helps to mitigate the effects of global climate change.”

Energy Corps members can assist organizations working in the sustainable energy field by providing hands-on assistance, including weatherization and conservation activities; energy assessments, audits and consultations, and alternative and renewable energy activities. Members can also conduct educational presentations, and offer events and trainings in energy efficient and environmentally conscious practices.

Since the program’s inception in 2009, more than 5,200 individuals have received hands-on energy efficiency assistance from members, and members have educated more than 18,000 individuals about energy and sustainability. 

Ninety-eight individuals have served as Energy Corps AmeriCorps members over the past three years, and more than 10% of those acquired good jobs in sustainable energy fields. 

“Together, NCAT and our host site partners work to meet the needs of an emerging green economy while helping individuals and communities reduce their energy usage and costs,” said Hill.