​Seven grantees to develop multicultural and craft jobs pipeline for new green economy

CHICAGO (November 17, 2017) – ComEd has provided a total of $7 million to seven grant recipients who have been selected to develop and administer future energy jobs training programs as a part of the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA). The funding will enable APAC, ASPIRA, Chatham Business Association, Chicago Urban League, HACIA, National Latino Education Institute (NLEI) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) 134 to implement diverse training programs that will help prepare people from local Illinois communities for future energy jobs in areas like solar and energy efficiency.

FEJA, which was passed by the Illinois Legislature and became effective June 1, 2017, allocates $10 million every four years in 2017, 2021, and 2025—a total of $30 million—for solar pipeline training programs, craft apprenticeships and multicultural training for individuals from diverse and/or underserved backgrounds.

“We are proud to work with local organizations that are well known for making positive impacts within the communities they serve and look forward to helping support and inspire the energy workforce of the future,” said Anne Pramaggiore, ComEd President and CEO.

The seven grantees receiving job training funds are:

• APAC - $500,000
• ASPIRA - $500,000
• Chatham Business Association - $500,000
• Chicago Urban League - $1,000,000
• HACIA - $1,000,000
• National Latino Education Institute (NLEI) - $500,000
• IBEW 134 - $3,000,000

A Solar Pipeline Training Program is the third of the three umbrella programs that the FEJA will fund, in addition to the multicultural jobs and craft apprenticeship programs. The Chicago Community Trust conducted an RFP process for the $3 million in solar pipeline training funds and those awardees will be announced in December.