Northeast Wrapped: 2023
As 2024 begins, Greg reflects on Northeast Solar's journey of growth, community engagement, and commitment to sustainability throughout 2023.
As another year has passed, it feels good to reflect on our journey, especially in a world that feels increasingly chaotic and uncertain. At Northeast Solar (NES), we've found strength in our operations and our impact on fostering sustainable communities. This year has been about integrating renewable energy solutions that unite neighbors, enhance local economies, and build a foundation for a cooperative future. This year, we've seen firsthand how our mission aligns with the community's needs—providing comfort, stability, and a sense of unity. This matters more than ever. Building sustainable communities means recognizing our essential interdependence by creating spaces where the people and the planet can prosper for future generations.
2023 marked a significant milestone in our sustainability journey: we doubled our Mini-Split installations and increased our solar capacity by 20%. This expansion isn't just a metric of our growth; it's a testament to our holistic approach to energy solutions. By integrating mini-splits with solar installations, we're helping households transition seamlessly towards a fossil fuel-free lifestyle. Mini-splits are a natural extension of solar energy, providing efficient heating and cooling, while solar panels generate clean electricity. Together, they form a powerful combination that reduces reliance on traditional energy sources and empowers our clients to take control of their environmental impact. This shift towards combining solar and mini-splits signifies a broader trend in our clients' energy choices, reflecting a growing awareness and commitment to sustainable living.
Our growth in 2023 has been a measure of our success and a channel for deepening our engagement with the community. We proudly contributed nearly $30,000 to local charities, embodying our guiding principle, 'Good work done well for the right reasons.' This contribution has had a tangible impact, providing 15,000 meals through the Western Mass Food Bank to underserved communities and marking our strong presence as the second-highest fundraiser in the Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage, raising over $10,000.
Beyond financial support, I am proud of how the NES team has actively engaged in the greater community. Notably, Rusty, Connor, and the UMass Ultimate Frisbee team ran the 5K for Safe Passage in the Hot Chocolate Run. Their spirited participation, coupled with the significant funds raised, demonstrates the genuine commitment and solidarity we feel with our neighbors.
The ability to contribute meaningfully and support those who are underserved fills me with a sense of fulfillment. It's a reminder of the impact a united team can have and the positive change we can foster together. As we reflect on this past year's achievements, the stories of active, authentic participation and the lives we've touched resonate the most, driving us forward with renewed purpose and enthusiasm.
As we reveled in the holiday season, I was reminded of the joy and unity our company party brought, a true testament to our camaraderie and shared vision. It's these moments of togetherness that reinforce the essence of NES.
Looking ahead in 2024
Looking at 2024, our vision at NES is not only focused on internal growth and continued community engagement but also on contributing significantly to Massachusetts' renewable energy goals. We plan to expand our ASHP teams, a move that will play a crucial role in transitioning more households away from fossil fuels. By increasing our solar installations, we aim to make Western Massachusetts not just more sustainable but also a model for renewable energy adoption statewide. This expansion isn't just about scaling our operations, it's about providing greater opportunities for our employees and the charities we support and playing an integral role in the state's journey toward a greener future.
Our commitment for the coming year and beyond is to enhance our charitable contributions. We aspire to be more thoughtful in our support and commitment, ensuring each contribution makes a meaningful impact. NES wants to continue its legacy of doing "good work" — work that not only advances our company but also bolsters our community and supports Massachusetts in achieving its ambitious climate and energy targets.
As we commit to our goals, we recognize the synergy between sustainability, community involvement, and excellence in renewable energy. Each element supports and amplifies the others, creating a powerful force for change. Together, we're not just aspiring to a sustainable future; we're actively building it with every action we take. This unity and shared purpose are what drive us to turn these aspirations into tangible realities every day.
At Northeast Solar, we are more than a team; we are a community united by a common goal, embodying the principles and commitments of a certified B Corp. Our work extends beyond installing solar panels; it's about actively participating in a movement toward sustainability and responsible energy use. Being a B Corp means our business decisions are guided by performance and purpose, reflecting our dedication to making a tangible difference in the world. Our team, a reflection of this designation, is committed to excellence, transparency, and the betterment of our community and environment. As we look to the future, we're excited about the potential and committed to pushing forward with determination, continually striving for a brighter, more sustainable, and mindful world for all.
Thank you to our wonderful community for joining us on this journey. Your support and commitment have been the key to our success. Together, we're creating a brighter, more sustainable future!
Happy New Year!
Gregory Garrison, President