Applications for the Rising Solar Fellowship Program for 2024 are NOW OPEN.

GRID Alternatives and WRISE have joined forces once again to launch the Rising Solar fellowship program, providing individuals aspiring to work in the solar industry with the chance to build a career in renewable energy. This initiative, a part of GRID and WRISE’s efforts to promote diversity in the workforce, is specifically designed for those who identify as women or belonging to marginalized genders, including college and graduate students focusing on renewable energy and related fields.

Rising Solar Fellows will benefit from:

– Complimentary access to the RE+ conference;
– Tailored program content exclusively for fellows;
– Mentorship and networking opportunities;
– Collaboration and learning experiences with a group of peers.

Please be aware that WRISE will cover the costs of conference registration, travel, and accommodation in advance. Any additional expenses incurred during the fellowship (such as meals, transportation) are eligible for reimbursement. If you encounter difficulties covering these costs upfront, it will not impact your eligibility – kindly inform us, and we will assist you in finding a solution.

Throughout the 2-month fellowship period (estimated from 8/12 to 10/9), fellows are expected to participate in the RE+ conference in person, as well as attend virtual meetings before and after the event.

For inquiries, please contact fellowships[at]WRISEnergy[dot]org.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Solar Power Fellowship, individuals must be 18 years or older, self-identifying as a woman or belonging to a marginalized gender group. They should be currently enrolled as a student or have recently graduated from a college, university, or technical certificate program. This includes graduate degree programs and installer training programs. Additionally, applicants must not be currently working in the industry and should be based in the United States during the fellowship period. Those interested in various sectors of renewable energy, such as academic, manufacturing, technical, consulting, engineering, and finance, are encouraged to apply. However, preference will be given to those planning to pursue a career in renewable energy in the United States, particularly in the solar industry. Please note that individuals currently participating in the GRID Alternatives SolarCorps Fellowship are not eligible for this opportunity.

How to Submit Your Application

Applicants are required to prepare the following materials in PDF format for submission:

1. Updated resume or professional vitae
2. Academic transcript (official or unofficial)
3. At least one Letter of Recommendation
4. Essay (750-1750 words) – refer to the provided prompts below. APPLY HERE

Prompt 1: Rewrite the essay question.

Choose one of the essay topics below and write an essay between 750 and 1750 words. Your essay should demonstrate critical thinking, effective expression, and reflect your insights.

Option 1; As the renewable energy sector, specifically solar energy, continues to evolve, organizations are actively seeking innovative solutions to address various challenges. Can you identify a specific challenge or issue within the solar energy field that you are passionate about and would like to tackle in your future career?

Option 2: The solar energy sector has the potential to bring about positive change and address societal and environmental challenges. Based on your aspirations and values, explain the impact you hope to make in your community or society through your involvement in solar energy. How do you plan to utilize your skills, knowledge, and passion to contribute to a more sustainable future and inspire others to embrace renewable energy solutions?

Option 3: Solar energy has become a significant player in the global shift towards renewable energy sources. Describe a moment or experience that sparked your interest in solar energy and the renewable industry. How has this interest evolved over time, and what steps have you taken to deepen your understanding of solar technology, its benefits, and its challenges? Reflect on your vision for the future of solar energy and its potential to address environmental issues and reshape the energy landscape.

Selection Criteria:

• Demonstrated interest in renewable energy
• Academic and/or vocational achievements
• Work and volunteer experiences
• Potential for future contributions to the renewable energy community in the United States
• Financial need.  APPLY HERE