Public Service Electric & Gas’ Clean Energy Jobs Program, which aims to place 2,000 people from underserved communities in well-paying jobs that support New Jersey’s clean energy goals, was honored with a national Energy Equity Award from Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative, the company announced Wednesday.
The Energy Equity Award is a new category created by the SECC to acknowledge a provider that’s advancing a more equitable energy system.
PSE&G’s program, which is helping to meet the growing need for skilled workers in the state, already has placed more than 700 people at companies that support the utility’s energy efficiency initiative. Hiring will continue through the year, including a group of candidates currently participating in a six-month training course to prepare them for jobs at businesses that deliver energy efficiency services.
PSE&G President Kim Hanemann said the company was proud to be honored — but was more pleased by the work it is doing.
“Our program is helping deserving candidates train and prepare for a New Jersey that is progressing toward a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future,” she said.
“We’re proud of this recognition and our role as pioneers in the clean energy workforce development space. We are successfully finding meaningful employment for individuals with no prior or specific experience in clean energy, but who do have intangible skills such as desire, passion, commitment and a hard work ethic.”
PSE&G’s energy efficiency initiative, the largest commitment to energy efficiency ever in New Jersey, includes programs designed to provide environmental benefits and reduce customer bills while creating jobs and boosting the state’s economy.
The six-month program provides wrap-around services, including child care, transportation and resume preparation, to help ensure students are successful.
