The public benefit purposes of the Cooperative are to create a material positive impact on society and the environment, taken as a whole, from the business and operations of the Company, while valuing the well-being of its clients, employees, contractors, collaborators, community, and other stakeholders.
Empowered Energy Systems LCA is a Public Benefit Corporation
For our Community
Specific Public Benefits
1
Financial Resilience
Individually, collectively, and in collaboration with our Members, employees, customers, suppliers, venders, collaborators and other stakeholders, increasing energy independence, reducing the carbon loading of the atmosphere, and making our communities more financially resilient through the installation of solar electric systems.2
Access to Solar
Providing, and/or helping others get access to, at-cost or low-cost solar electric equipment and/or installations for non-profit organizations or low-income individuals.3
Energy Education
Participating in renewable energy educational efforts serving youth or underserved adults in local, regional or international communities.4
Conservation Efforts
Participating in, volunteering with, and/or financially contributing to, local conservation efforts that promote environmental health or restoration.5
Advocating for Workers
Modeling and advocating for (a) environmentally-friendly and regenerative business practices and (b) democratic ownership of the means of productions for workers.6
Forging Relationships
Forging and nurturing robust relationships with other individuals, businesses, organizations, municipalities, and others to facilitate the advancement of any of our shared purposes, missions, or values.
Empowered Energy Systems Public Benefit Report for 2024
1
Continued Our Work
In 2024 Empowered Energy Systems continued its work by installing 379.91 kW on residential and commercial properties. The addition of 379.91kW of solar reduces the carbon loading of the atmosphere and adds to the energy independence of the Western Colorado communities that we serve.2
Reduced Solar Cost
To increase access to solar for nonprofits and lower-income individuals, when possible, we reduce the cost of the solar system. The Hearth, a building owned by The Learning Council, a non-profit organization based in Paonia, CO, benefited from such a discounted system. In addition, we provided a reduced-cost system for a lower-income household.3
Provided Educational Opportunities
Empowered Energy Systems performed educational outreach for youth at the Building Futures Event in Montrose,CO and Heritage Days in Delta, CO. At both events, Empowered Energy Systems set up displays that offered interactive activities for students to learn about solar power and its applications.4
Made Financial Contributions
Empowered Energy Systems made financial contributions to the following organizations: Citizens for a Healthy Community, Western Colorado Alliance, Western Slope Conservation Center, and Friends of Youth and Nature. These organizations’ missions include local conservation, environmental health and restoration, and outdoor education funding for youth.5
Converted to Worker-Owned
Empowered Energy Systems converted to a worker-owned cooperative in January 2024. Our conversion process was featured in a KVNF radio story and articles in the local Spotlight and Merchant Herald newspapers. In addition, we were interviewed and featured in stories with Colorado Newsline and the Denver Post. We are a resource for local businesses considering making the shift to a worker-owned cooperative and we were contacted and met with a company located in Ridgway interested in converting to a cooperative.6