GRID Alternatives’ All-Women Team Participates in the 2024 Solar Games
For Immediate Release
SAN DIEGO, CA; JANUARY 16, 2024 – The Intersolar North America and Energy Storage North America (ISNA/ESNA) will host a thrilling three-day tournament January 17-19 at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, CA.GRID Alternatives will be represented this year with it’s all-women team in tow. GRID Team’s Coach is Anna Bautista, VP of Construction. “We’re thrilled to return to the Intersolar Solar Games for the second year, representing with another all-women team,” proclaims Coach Bautista. Introduced in 2020, the Solar Games generate excitement year after year as 4-person teams compete for a share of the $16,000 prize money and title of Solar Games Champion. “Thanks to our team members from North Coast, San Diego, and Los Angeles for participating amidst busy installation schedules. As the team coach, I’m so proud to see them compete roof-to-roof with top crews who likely work together daily,” noted Bautista.
The timed competition features multiple rounds during which teams are tasked with installing solar modules, racking, inverters, and battery storage to build on and off-grid residential solar and storage systems, with all materials generously donated by sponsors. The custom-built arena consists of two roofs, placed side by side; the back edge of the asphalt-shingled roofs is 48 inches off the ground, built at a 12.6-degree pitch. There is a designated ladder entry point, which is the only place where equipment and installers are allowed to access the roof. In an effort to simulate a real-life installation, organizers include various obstacles in progressively difficult rounds that challenge even the most experienced installers. “Looking ahead, we’re excited about a future with more diverse teams and anticipate the growth of mixed-gender participation for future Intersolar Solar Games,” added Coach Bautista. For additional information on the Solar Games, please click on the link in the attachment.
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About GRID Alternatives
GRID Alternatives is an international, U.S.-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that builds community-powered solutions to advance economic and environmental justice through renewable energy. GRID works in the U.S., Mexico, Nepal, and Nicaragua and has installed solar photovoltaic systems on more than 29,500 homes and affordable housing developments in underserved communities while providing more than 33,200 individuals with workforce development training. GRID also provides clean mobility solutions and battery storage and is a leading voice in low-income solar policy development in the U.S. Installation Basics Training (IBT), a competency-based certificate program designed to develop the skills most relevant to entry-level solar installation jobs and related construction employment fields. Trainees learn solar installation skills, OSHA 10 safety standards, first aid and CPR, and soft skills, including interpersonal communication and dependability, to help job trainees obtain and sustain employment.
