US Solar Donates $500,000 to Bridge House for clean energy training in Aurora

AURORA, Colo. — US Solar donated $500,000 to Colorado nonprofit Bridge House to support workforce development and create a clean energy training pathway through the organization’s Ready to Work program.

The donation was announced Wednesday during a ribbon-cutting event for US Solar’s Lowry Community Solar Projects in Aurora.

The funding will support continuing education focused on clean energy careers. Over the next two years, 10 Ready to Work participants will receive specialized training for jobs in the solar industry and other clean energy sectors.

“As careers in the clean energy industry continue to grow, it’s critical that those opportunities are accessible to everyone,” said Erica Forsman, chief commercial officer of US Solar. “Through our partnership with Ready to Work, we’re proud to help create new avenues into the workforce for individuals working to rebuild their lives.”

New Training Pathway for Formerly Homeless Individuals

Bridge House operates the Ready to Work program, which combines paid employment, case management, housing support and transportation assistance for people experiencing or exiting homelessness.

The new clean energy training track is intended to connect participants with employment opportunities in Colorado’s expanding clean energy sector.

“Solving complex challenges like homelessness requires innovative partners willing to invest in both immediate support and long-term economic mobility,” said Scott Shields, interim chief executive officer of Bridge House. “This partnership goes beyond funding. It opens doors to one of Colorado’s most dynamic industries, providing trainees with a pathway to economic and housing stability.”

Lowry Community Solar Projects Provide Additional Benefits

The workforce training initiative is part of a broader community investment effort tied to US Solar’s Lowry Community Solar Projects.

The portfolio includes six community solar gardens located within the Lowry Landfill Superfund buffer area. In addition to generating renewable energy, the projects are expected to provide community solar subscriptions to about 5,000 income-qualified Colorado households.

As a result, participating households will receive assistance in reducing energy costs while gaining access to community solar benefits.

Clean Energy and Economic Opportunity

The donation and workforce training initiative align with broader efforts to connect clean energy development with economic opportunity. Moreover, the program aims to create career pathways for individuals facing employment barriers.

At the same time, the Lowry Community Solar Projects are designed to expand access to renewable energy across Colorado. Consequently, the projects combine energy generation with workforce development and community support.

The training program is expected to help participants gain skills for in-demand clean energy jobs while supporting long-term economic stability. Meanwhile, the community solar projects will continue delivering energy savings to qualifying households throughout Colorado.