Programs
Strategic Energy Innovations' programs link underserved communities, organizations and groups to the expertise and resources that can help them reduce their impact on the planet — and save money by using energy and resources more efficiently. Our innovative approaches focus on achieving measurable and needed impacts in the following areas: Eco-Smart Education, Green Housing, Green Workforce and Sustainable Communities.
Eco Smart Education
Schools spend more than $8 billion per year on energy nationwide, second only to spending on books and computers. SEI’s staff partner with schools and universities on a number of greening initiatives, from helping to make school and campus buildings more energy efficienct, to working alongside instructors to test new approaches to sustainability education. Our work in Eco-Smart Education spans K-12 through higher education.
Green Workforce
SEI delivers green workforce education and training in a variety of ways, including curriculum development, education and training programs, technical training and apprenticeships, and policy. SEI has developed a series of curricula and project-based learning programs that introduce young people to energy and climate topics and help them to explore green careers. To respond to the need for qualified, local energy efficiency and clean energy professionals, SEI fosters links between municipalities, private industry and academic institutions to deliver occupational training and green employment to area unemployed and underemployed workers.
Green Housing
There is significant potential for creating green and healthy environments in our existing housing stock. Green building techniques have become essential strategies for improving housing performance. SEI staff and technical partners seek to expand a housing owner’s capacity to optimize the operational efficiency of their buildings, making it a showcase of sustainability. By engaging the right technical assistance and leveraging utility and government resources, we realize quantifiable energy and cost savings as well as environmental benefits.
Sustainable Communities
Climate change and rising energy costs have brought resource efficiency to the forefront of many communities' agendas. We work with municipalities to empower communities to work in new ways to save resources and money while leveraging locally sourced talent and assets. SEI’s staff can help move your community towards greater sustainability by providing exceptional technical assistance, leveraging resources, and building community engagement.