New Energy Equity, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ALLETE Inc, has reached a significant milestone in its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The company has achieved the coveted Gold Certification through the Solar Energy Industries Association’s (SEIA) Diversity Equity Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Certification Program. This accomplishment underscores New Energy’s dedication to building a more equitable and supportive work environment within the solar industry.
Lindsey Gillis, Chief Administrative Officer at New Energy, expressed pride in receiving the Gold Certification, stating that it reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to foster equity and inclusion, creating a thriving environment for employees to excel both professionally and personally.
To earn the Gold Certification, New Energy successfully completed a series of modules within the DEIJ program, addressing crucial topics like LGBTQ+ and disability inclusion, mentorship practices, effective recruitment strategies, and conflict resolution. This comprehensive program guides participants through a range of modules, encouraging them to implement policies, procedures, and initiatives that promote a more inclusive workplace. The program also emphasizes the importance of serving communities and attracting, hiring, promoting, and retaining diverse talent.
New Energy is now one of only three companies in the solar industry to achieve the highest level of DEIJ certification. It previously received the Bronze and Silver certifications, highlighting its consistent commitment to progress in this area.
New Energy Equity specializes in developing, financing, operating, and managing solar power generation assets, providing clean electricity to commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers through long-term contracts. The company has a proven track record of success, having developed over 500 megawatts of solar projects and secured more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments.
This Gold Certification from SEIA is a testament to New Energy Equity’s dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable future for the solar industry and the communities it serves.