CenterPoint Energy developing diverse, skilled workforce for energy efficiency in Minnesota

CenterPoint Energy in Minnesota announced Tuesday it would be partnering with eight technical colleges and community non-profit organizations to expand training for the next generation of energy efficiency workforce.

The workforce development initiative, approved through the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, would increase the number of skilled trades professionals with energy efficiency expertise and increase the diversity of the energy efficiency workforce with a focus on historically underrepresented groups.

“CenterPoint Energy has long been a leader in helping our customers improve their energy efficiency to save money and reduce their carbon footprint,” said Christe Singleton, CenterPoint Energy’s Vice President of Minnesota Gas. “To continue and expand this commitment, it’s essential to develop a workforce equipped with the knowledge and skills to support energy efficiency in Minnesota homes and businesses.”

CenterPoint Energy in Minnesota has previously been recognized as having one of the country’s foremost natural gas energy efficiency programs with its Conservation Improvement Program (CIP). In addition to conserving energy, energy efficiency programs support job creation and local economic development, the company said, while lowering customers’ energy costs and reducing carbon emissions.

Energy efficiency is involved in a wide range of career opportunities, including construction, energy auditing, weatherization/air sealing/insulation, and the installation and maintenance of HVAC and refrigeration equipment. Through a $2.5 million competitive grant program, CenterPoint Energy will team up with Avivo, the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), Dunwoody College of Technology, Hennepin Technical College, Minneapolis Regional Chamber Development Foundation, ServeMinnesota, StudioOne-Eighty, and Summit Academy OIC.