Creating local, sustainable jobs in the new green economy.
Can an organization solve social and environmental challenges and generate a profit? Isles is answering that question with the start-up of a new social enterprise venture
– E4.
Isles E4 (Energy, Environment, Equity and Employment) is designed to be a sustainable, non-profit subsidiary of Isles, serving the emerging statewide home energy efficiency market while generating high-paying jobs for local residents. Initially, the business will focus on residential weatherization for low-income households through current contracts with Honeywell, Mercer County Weatherization Assistance Program and possibly as a subcontractor for local weatherization providers.
Ultimately, Isles E4 will conduct energy audits, install solar energy systems, provide “healthy homes” testing and remediation (lead, asthma, mold), and educate the public on saving energy.
By hiring and providing on-the-jobt raining to graduates of Isles’ Center for Energy and Environmental Training (CEET), Isles E4 provides a ready pathway for local residents to begin earning up to $17 per hour (plus benefits) in the new green economy.
So far, E4 has hired 5 insulation installers, all 5 of whom were CEET graduates. E4 plans to hire an additional 4 employees by April 1st and 8 additional employees over the next two years.