In a powerful video feature by NowThis, WeSolar CEO Kristal Hansley shares her mission to make solar energy accessible to underserved communities, particularly in areas like Baltimore. As the first Black woman in the U.S. to own a community solar company, Kristal is leading the charge in addressing both energy inequality and climate justice.
The NowThis in spotlights Kristal’s work to close the energy gap for low-income families who are often burdened with high utility costs and limited access to renewable energy. Through WeSolar’s community solar model, residents can subscribe to a shared solar farm and receive credits on their energy bills—without installing expensive solar panels in their homes. This innovative approach makes clean energy affordable and accessible to everyone, regardless of their income level or housing situation.
Kristal’s journey, as highlighted in the feature, is both inspiring and deeply personal. She explains how her experiences growing up in a Black, working-class neighborhood and her work in policy helped shape her vision for a more inclusive solar industry. Her goal is to provide clean energy and empower communities by giving them ownership and control over their energy resources.
In the NowThis feature, Kristal underscores the importance of equity in the green economy, calling for more inclusive solutions that ensure all communities can benefit from the transition to renewable energy. Her leadership in the solar industry is a testament to the impact that diverse voices can have in driving economic and environmental change.