Lawrence County Workforce Initiative Opens Pathways to Renewable Energy Careers For North Alabama Residents

Open House at R.A. Hubbard Community Center to Connect Local Job Seekers with Opportunities in Renewable Energy.

HOUSTON, Tx. — October 15, 2025 —Urban Grid, a leading independent power producer (IPP), has partnered with R.A. Hubbard Community Center, LPL Solar, CSS Solar LLC, First Solar, Decatur Career Center and the town of North Courtland to launch the Pathways to Careers in Renewable Energy initiative. The program is designed to connect Lawrence County residents with job opportunities in the renewable energy sector and address the region’s growing demand for locally sourced power and the skilled labor needed to support it.

The initiative will kick off with an open house on Oct. 15 at R.A. Hubbard Community Center. The event will provide local job seekers with information about employment opportunities tied to Urban Grid’s Hillsboro Solar project and the broader renewable energy industry. Residents with backgrounds across a spectrum of skilled trades including electrical, HVAC, concrete construction, landscaping, roofing, roadwork and manufacturing are encouraged to attend. Attendees will learn about transferable skills, job requirements and the application process. Company overviews will be presented by CSS Solar LLC, LPL Solar and First Solar.

Urban Grid’s mission extends beyond building solar facilities to building strong communities. Through its Economic and Community Development work, the company invests in programs that strengthen local economies, create pathways to good jobs and ensure communities share the benefits of locally sourced energy.

“We are committed to giving back to our project communities, being good neighbors and collaborating with partners whose work advances agriculture, workforce development and youth education,” said Lakeesha Carr, director of economic development at Urban Grid.

Riley Evans, Mayor of North Courtland, added, “The Urban Grid partnership aims to lay the groundwork for transformative community-led educational programming.”

As part of the workforce initiative, Urban Grid is also launching the Northern Alabama Solar Education Exhibit at R.A. Hubbard Community Center. This static installation will highlight the Hillsboro Solar Project, showcase renewable energy careers and serve as a cornerstone for community-led education in locally sourced energy. From development through construction and into long-term operations, Urban Grid remains committed to being a trusted partner and a good neighbor in every community it serves.

Event Details

  • Date: October 15, 2025
  • Time: 4:00–7:00 PM
  • Location: R.A. Hubbard Community Center Gymnasium, North Courtland, AL

About the Partners

Urban Grid

Urban Grid is a leading independent power producer (IPP) delivering reliable, utility-scale solar and storage solutions to help meet America’s unprecedented energy demand. We develop, own and operate projects that strengthen local economies through long-term partnerships and responsible land stewardship. By integrating agrivoltaics into our land management practices, we enhance soil health, support local farmers and benefit the communities we serve.

With a strong focus on execution and integrity, we are committed to being a trusted domestic energy provider and responsible corporate citizen. Urban Grid is headquartered in Houston, Texas, and operates across the United States with a growing portfolio that includes 12,000 megawatts of development assets.  We continue to maintain our optionality to co-locate with battery storage based on customer demand, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness in our energy solutions.

Since becoming an IPP in 2023, we have successfully brought five solar projects online, begun construction on three additional projects and are actively advancing one gigawatt of capacity into pre-construction.

Urban Grid is a portfolio company of Brookfield, one of the world’s largest owners and operators of renewable power and climate transition assets.

LPL Solar LLC

LPL Solar LLC is a distinguished leader in the construction of utility-scale solar power plants, renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainability. With a strong emphasis on self-perform capabilities, LPL Solar caters to a diverse clientele, including independent power producers and utility companies. The company offers comprehensive Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services, covering a broad spectrum of energy infrastructure, including PV Plants, Substations, Switchyards, and cutting-edge Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

Learn more at www.LPLSolar.com.

First Solar

First Solar is America’s Solar Company—an industry leader in solar technology and the only U.S.-headquartered manufacturer among the world’s top solar producers. We specialize in advanced thin film photovoltaic (PV) modules, developed through cutting-edge research in California and Ohio, and engineered for high performance and reliability in utility-scale power generation.

With a growing manufacturing footprint that includes facilities in Ohio, Alabama, and soon Louisiana, First Solar is driving domestic innovation and creating thousands of high-tech jobs across the country. Our vertically integrated operations—from R&D to production—enable speed, precision, and quality at scale.

We foster a workplace culture built on innovation, agility, collaboration, and accountability. At First Solar, passionate individuals have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, solve complex challenges, and grow their careers in a fast-paced, forward-thinking environment.

Learn more at www.firstsolar.com

For more information, please contact [email protected].

Urban Grid Marks Milestone Virginia Portfolio Launch with Three New Projects, Driving Local Economic Impact

CRYSTAL HILL, Va. — Nov. 14, 2024 — Urban Grid, a leading independent power producer, launched its Virginia solar portfolio in Halifax County this week, marking a significant investment in locally generated energy and a stronger local economy. In a ceremony held at the Crystal Hill Solar site, Urban Grid celebrated the completion of three major projects: Crystal Hill Solar, Alton Post Office Solar and Foxglove Solar. Together, these projects are paving the way for a more resilient, locally supported power grid and reinforcing Virginia’s role as a leader in domestic energy production. 

The event brought together local leaders, project partners and community members, who joined to commemorate Urban Grid’s commitment to providing reliable, homegrown energy while strengthening the regional economy. CEO Pete Candelaria, COO Saad Shamsi, CDO Matt McCluskey and Halifax County Supervisor Robbie Smart were among those who spoke at the event. Members of American Legion Post 99 led the Pledge of Allegiance to open the ceremony. 

“This is an important day for Urban Grid and for Virginia,” said Pete Candelaria, CEO of Urban Grid. “With the launch of our Virginia portfolio, we are delivering on Urban Grid’s vision to drive energy independence and local economic growth. These projects are generating good jobs, tax revenue and reliable power for thousands of Virginia homes. Together with our local partners, we are building a stronger, more resilient energy future right here in Halifax County.” 

The Crystal Hill Solar site, which has been operational for nearly a year, spans 65 megawatts and represents a significant local investment in both infrastructure and workforce. The Alton Post Office and Foxglove Solar projects, both 75 megawatt facilities, set to come online by year’s end, will add additional capacity to Virginia’s power grid, supporting economic growth and enhancing the state’s energy resilience. These projects contribute millions in tax revenue and create hundreds of jobs, helping to build a foundation for long-term economic strength. 

Matt McCluskey, Urban Grid’s Chief Development Officer said, “We are deeply committed to creating lasting value in the communities where we develop and operate. Our projects are not just about delivering power—they’re about building partnerships, supporting local economies and investing in the people who live here. We are proud to work alongside Halifax County and other project communities to help drive sustainable economic growth and opportunity.” 

Supervisor Robbie Smart of Halifax County highlighted the positive impact on the local economy: “Urban Grid’s projects are a valuable addition to Halifax County, demonstrating our commitment to a balanced approach to development,” said Robbie Smart, Halifax County Supervisor. “We are focused on supporting successful projects that respect the character of our community while providing meaningful benefits to our citizens. With new sources of tax revenue from these solar projects, we can enhance vital services such as fire and rescue, maintain and improve our roads, and ensure a brighter future for Halifax County. Today is a proud day for our county, and we look forward to a strong partnership with Urban Grid in the years to come.” 

Urban Grid’s Virginia projects reflect the company’s commitment to supporting local economies, creating jobs and contributing to a more resilient and independent power grid. With the support of local and state partners, Urban Grid has built a strong foundation in Virginia, showing how clean energy can strengthen American industries and local communities alike. 

Urban Grid’s scholarship program, launched in May 2024 in conjunction with its Virginia projects, will provide annual awards to local high school students in the communities surrounding each project. Focused on supporting students pursuing education at technical schools or community colleges, the program will invest $225,000 over the first five years throughout Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, benefiting more than 80 students. Through this commitment, Urban Grid aims to empower future generations and contribute to local workforce development. 

About Urban Grid 

Urban Grid, a leading independent power producer, facilitates a rapid and sustainable energy transition by developing high-quality renewable energy projects, fostering community partnerships, and serving as a good land steward. Our company is positioned to own and operate its facilities while cultivating a land management system that benefits farmers, communities, and the natural world through agrivoltaics. Urban Grid maintains a delivery-focused approach with the goal of being a good neighbor, corporate citizen, and trusted energy solutions partner. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, with teams situated strategically throughout the United States, Urban Grid has a long history of contributing to the clean energy economy. In addition to 940 megawatts currently under construction, we are actively developing a growing portfolio of more than 12,000 megawatts of solar PV and 7,000 megawatts of co-located and stand-alone energy storage. 

Urban Grid is a portfolio company of Brookfield, one of the world’s largest owners and operators of renewable power and climate transition assets. 

BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND 

BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND 

  IN THE MATTER OF PORTER MILL, LLC’S APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY TO CONSTRUCT A 45.80 MW SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATING FACILITY IN WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND 

CASE NO. 9710 

  

NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT HEARING 

A public comment hearing in the above-entitled matter is scheduled for Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at 6:30 p.m., at the Rockawalkin Community Hall, 6772 Rockawalkin Road, Hebron, Maryland 21830. The hearing is concerning Porter Mill, LLC’s application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Maryland Public Service Commission. The hearing will include a presentation by the Applicant. If you have any questions about the public hearing, please email [email protected]. Anyone wishing to observe the live stream of the hearing may do so via the Public Utility Law Judge Division’s YouTube Channel, https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP. 

Written comments on the proposed Project may be submitted electronically or by first-class mail no later than Friday, March 1, 2024. Comments submitted electronically must be submitted through the Commission’s Public Comment Dropbox, which can be accessed through the Commission’s website at www.psc.state.md.us. Instructions for logging into the Public Comment Dropbox are located under the “Tools” section of the Commission’s website under the “Make a Public Comment” tab, which can be accessed via the following link: www.psc.state.md.us/make-a-public-comment. Commenters utilizing the Public Comment Dropbox are required to complete a one-time registration. All comments must include a reference to Case No. 9710. If submitted by first-class mail, comments must be addressed to Jamie Bergin, Chief Clerk, Maryland Public Service Commission, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Only one copy is required.