Solar Energy Company Secures $2.5M Project
Pineapple Subsidiary SUNation Energy Secures $2.5 Million Project Slated to Directly Benefit Shinnecock Nation.
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Pineapple Energy Inc. ("Pineapple"), a provider of sustainable solar energy and backup power solutions for households and small businesses, has announced a goal achieved by its subsidiary, SUNation Energy. This New York-based subsidiary has successfully completed two of three renewable energy projects designed to benefit the Shinnecock Nation, a federally recognized tribe of sovereign Native Americans residing on the East End of Long Island. The project's total value is approximately $2.5 million.
Overview of the Shinnecock Nation
The Shinnecock Indian Nation is recognized as a sovereign entity by the federal government and occupies an 800-acre self-governing reservation on Long Island. The community is dedicated to preserving its cultural heritage while striving for self-sustainability through modern and innovative means, including renewable energy. As part of their mission, they have partnered with SUNation Energy to explore and implement sustainable energy solutions that will benefit both current and future generations of the Shinnecock people.
One of the completed projects by SUNation Energy includes bringing the local elementary school of the Shinnecock Nation to 100% electric usage offset. This milestone was achieved through the installation of rooftop solar panels complemented by a separate ground-mounted array. These installations ensure that the school operates entirely on clean, renewable energy, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability within the community. This project is a testament to the community's commitment to integrating renewable energy into their daily lives and setting a model for others to follow.
In addition to the elementary school project, SUNation Energy has also installed a ground-mounted solar array that supports five new homes. These homes are equipped with hydrogen fuel cell power centers, providing a reliable and eco-friendly power source. Hydrogen fuel cells are known for their efficiency and ability to generate electricity with minimal environmental impact. This integration of solar energy with hydrogen fuel cells demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to achieving energy independence and sustainability. It also showcases how traditional and modern technologies can be combined to create robust and resilient energy systems.
Upcoming Project: Community Solar Array
SUNation Energy is currently in the final design phase of a $2.5 million project to install a 1 MW ground-mounted/carport community solar array. This project is pending the award of grant funding and, upon completion, will distribute solar power to support buildings and residences throughout the Shinnecock reservation. The solar panels for this project were donated to the Shinnecock Reservation, highlighting the collaborative efforts to bring clean energy solutions to underserved communities. The inclusion of a carport structure also provides additional benefits, such as shaded parking, which can reduce heat island effects and improve the comfort of residents.
Scott Maskin, the interim CEO of Pineapple Energy, expressed his enthusiasm about the project: "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring support to an underserved community, utilize and train the local workforce, and revitalize equipment that may have wound up in a landfill. The project has support from our local utility, the State of New York, and all other involved stakeholders. I’m proud to play a part in this and look forward to this being a model as more non-profits, for-profits, and government entities unite to bring clean renewable power to our most needy."
Maskin's statement underscores the multifaceted benefits of the project, from environmental sustainability to economic development. By training the local workforce, the project not only provides immediate employment opportunities but also builds long-term capacity within the community. The reuse of equipment further emphasizes the project's commitment to sustainability by reducing waste and promoting circular economy principles.
Phillip Brown, Housing Director for the Shinnecock Nation
Phillip Brown, the Housing Director for the Shinnecock Nation, also shared his positive experiences with SUNation Energy: "SUNation has been an invaluable partner to our tribe. They continue to support us and creatively provide unique solutions. We expect to continue re-imagining the way our residents produce and consume power as we move to self-sustainability of our properties. This is part of our culture and our heritage." Brown's remarks highlight the cultural significance of the project. For the Shinnecock Nation, adopting renewable energy is not just about technological advancement but also about honoring their traditions and values. By re-imagining energy production and consumption, the tribe aims to achieve greater self-sufficiency and resilience, ensuring that their cultural heritage is preserved and strengthened.
Pineapple Energy is focused on growing leading local and regional solar, storage, and energy services companies nationwide. Their vision is to power the energy transition through grass-roots growth of solar electricity paired with battery storage. Pineapple's portfolio of brands includes SUNation Energy, Hawaii Energy Connection, E-Gear, Sungevity, and Horizon Solar Power. These brands provide comprehensive solutions for both residential and commercial sectors, ranging from solar installations to grid services.
SUNation Energy, a Pineapple Energy company, is the solar and energy expert trusted by over 9,000 homeowners, businesses, and municipalities since 2003. They are known for professionally installing the highest quality equipment with an exceptional customer experience. With offices in Ronkonkoma, NY, and Tampa, FL, SUNation Energy offers a complete in-house sustainable energy experience. Their services include residential and commercial solar installation, community solar, roofing, backup battery storage, EV charging, and more.
SUNation's not-for-profit corporation, SUNation Cares, also provides the gift of free electricity for life to Veterans and their families. This initiative is part of their broader mission to give back to the community and support those who have served the nation. In recognition of their excellence, SUNation was recently awarded the NYSERDA Quality Solar Installer Platinum Status in 2024, making them one of only five solar companies in New York to achieve this status and the only one on Long Island. The partnership between Pineapple Energy's SUNation Energy and the Shinnecock Nation marks a significant step forward in promoting sustainable energy solutions within underserved communities. By completing two major renewable energy projects and advancing the third, SUNation Energy is helping the Shinnecock Nation move towards greater energy independence and environmental sustainability. The collaboration exemplifies how innovative technologies, combined with strong partnerships, can drive meaningful change and create lasting benefits for communities.
As Pineapple Energy and SUNation Energy continue their efforts, they set a powerful example of how public, private, and community sectors can come together to address critical energy challenges. Their work with the Shinnecock Nation not only advances renewable energy adoption but also reinforces the importance of cultural heritage, economic development, and environmental stewardship.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. All information is based on publicly available data at the time of writing, and the technological and business landscapes can change rapidly. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment or business decisions.
As an investor it's important to stay updated with major news. Get real-time stock market alerts, news, and research by creating an account here.