Company Leadership Transition - New Energy Equity announced the promotion of Josh Kunkel to Chief Executive Officer effective June 1, 2025, as part of a planned transition [1] - Matt Hankey, the co-founder and current CEO, will take on a new role as Emerging Technologies Officer at ALLETE while remaining on the New Energy Equity Board of Directors [1][2] Company Growth and Achievements - Under Matt Hankey's leadership, New Energy Equity has grown to over 125 employees and has implemented over 270 solar projects across the United States, totaling 600MW and more than $1.5 billion in project investment [2] - The company focuses on developing, financing, operating, and managing solar power generation assets, providing clean electricity to various customers under long-term contracts [4] Future Outlook - Josh Kunkel expressed confidence in leading the company into its next phase of growth, emphasizing the strong foundation built by Hankey and the team [2][3] - ALLETE CEO Bethany Owen highlighted Kunkel's results-driven leadership and commitment to the company's culture and mission, indicating a positive outlook for New Energy Equity's future in the renewable energy industry [3]

Core Points - New Energy Equity's Lift as We Climb Foundation donated $100,000 to Civic Works to enhance solar access for Baltimore households [1][4] - The donation will enable 80 households to receive free solar installations, potentially reducing their electricity bills by 80% to 100% [4] - Civic Works aims to strengthen communities through education and skills development while increasing access to clean energy [5] Company Overview - New Energy Equity LLC, a subsidiary of ALLETE, specializes in developing, financing, operating, and managing solar power generation assets, with over 550MW of solar projects developed and more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments closed [9] - The Lift As We Climb Foundation was established by New Energy Equity to support local communities through charitable donations, focusing on solar energy projects, education, and workforce training [10] Community Impact - The funding will allow Civic Works to expand its rooftop solar team by hiring two new employees, ensuring sustainable solar deployment in the community [4] - Melvin Brennan, Director of Energy Programs at Civic Works, expressed gratitude for New Energy Equity's commitment to clean energy and its values [7][8]

Core Insights - New Energy Equity has partnered with the Harlem Consolidated School District to develop a 5.54 MWdc solar energy project in Illinois, marking its first initiative in the state's Public Schools Program [1][2]. Company Overview - New Energy Equity is a national leader in developing and financing community and commercial solar projects, having developed over 550 MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments [8]. - The company emphasizes its commitment to advancing clean energy in educational settings and empowering communities [5]. Project Details - The solar project will provide significant economic benefits, including discounted electricity, to the Harlem Consolidated School District and residential customers in the Commonwealth Edison service area [2]. - The project aims to offset the energy needs of the school district, which supports over 39,000 students across 11 schools, and expand renewable energy access to the local community [4]. Industry Impact - This initiative is part of Illinois' Adjustable Block Program (ABP), which promotes renewable energy growth across the state [2]. - The collaboration is expected to foster environmental stewardship and sustainability, allowing public schools and communities to transition to renewable energy sources [4][6]. Developer Background - BOW Renewables, the original developer of the project, is committed to providing local community benefits and advancing Illinois' clean energy objectives [7].