Pictured above: Scott Horton, GRID Alternatives community member
Scott Horton’s journey as a skilled solar installer began an unexpected path toward a passion for renewable energy. Starting with GRID Alternatives’ Installation Basics Training (IBT) program, Scott embraced the challenge, diving into the world of solar energy with determination.
“It just took my heart, and I liked it. I stuck with it,” Scott shares, reflecting on his motivation. “After we get solar on their roof, the expression on people’s faces, that’s what means a lot, you know. That’s what gets me.”
Scott’s journey has been a testament to his resilience and dedication. After being incarcerated for 19 years, returning to his hometown in the Montbello neighborhood of Denver, as one of GRID Colorado’s top solar installers was a powerful full-circle moment. Installing solar panels on homes in his community, Scott realized he was not just giving back—he was helping to build a sustainable future for his neighborhood.
GRID Alternatives is a nonprofit that provides renewable energy technology through community-first solutions to underserved communities. It offers no-cost solar installations for low- to moderate-income households, works with nonprofit organizations to install commercial rooftop solar systems, engages with high schools through its Solar Futures program, and offers solar installation training programs to individuals from underserved communities.
With GRID’s Installation Basics Training program and the industry-recognized experience, certifications, and potential employment opportunities it provides, Scott was able to reach his goal of making a difference in his own life and the lives of others.
Scott’s commitment did not go unnoticed. GRID Alternatives recognized his talent and dedication and hired him full-time as a residential installer. Now, Scott finds fulfillment in training recruits, sharing his knowledge, and inspiring others.
“I love training the guys on the roof and showing somebody something new, especially if they’re into it. It just means a lot to me. It means I did something good,” Scott says with pride.
Margaret Kral, GRID Alternatives Colorado executive director, is particularly proud of Scott’s accomplishments. “He’s moved from the workforce training program into a full-time role where GRID Alternatives was able to hire Scott as a residential installer. He’s one of our best trainers,” she notes.
Like Scott, Kral also came to GRID Alternatives with little knowledge of solar energy. Transitioning from a 28-year career in banking, she brought her financial and operational expertise to the organization. Her and Scott’s stories underscore the importance of equitable participation in the renewable energy sector.
“We envision a rapid, equitable transition to a world powered by renewable energy that benefits everyone by focusing on advancing economic and environmental justice through renewable energy and solar,” Margaret explains. “We always want to make sure that we’re allowing those same technologies to be available to everybody.”
GRID Alternatives has pioneered community solar projects in Colorado, launching the state’s first initiatives over a decade ago. This innovative approach has made solar power accessible to low- and moderate-income families, reducing energy costs through a subscription-based model.
Scott’s story and GRID Alternatives’ work illustrate the organization’s commitment to community-first solutions. The lessons learned from each project have refined and expanded GRID Alternatives’ impact on individuals, families, communities, and the environment.
“I get an opportunity to go out to our homeowners and talk to them, and they say how the extra savings in utility bills could help with gas, food, or even education, and they’re just very grateful,” said Margaret. “We are a regenerative organization because reducing energy costs allows people to return money to the community.”
GRID Alternatives’ efforts have saved hundreds of low- to moderate-income families and multiple affordable housing providers more than $9.8 million while offsetting over 47,000 tons of greenhouse gases over the systems’ lifetimes. With The Denver Foundation’s and its donors’ continued support, GRID Alternatives will expand its services, providing more training for underserved Denver residents and increasing solar panel installations across the community.
“It’s exciting to provide training to those that have a desire to learn about solar, electricity, and renewable energy, while supporting the movement toward a more renewable and sustainable future – and a cleaner earth,” said Margaret.
The Denver Foundation has been supporting GRID Alternatives for seven years through funds such as the Community Grants Program, the Technical Assistance Fund, and the Environmental Affinity Group — a group of donors who pool resources to collectively identify, promote, and support environmental causes — in addition to several independent fundholders.
Photos courtesy: Armando Geneyro