'By and for the People': Brooklyn Launches First Community-Solar Project in Sunset Park

A New Era of Community-Driven Renewable Energy in New York City

New York City has taken a significant step forward in the fight for energy justice with the launch of its first community-led and cooperatively owned solar project, Sunset Park Solar. The initiative was officially installed at the Brooklyn Army Terminal (BAT) in Sunset Park on July 20, marking a milestone for local residents and environmental advocates.

The solar array, located on the roof of Building B at BAT, is a 725-kilowatt system that will provide clean and reliable electricity to approximately 200 families and businesses in the area. This project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy bills by 20%. Additionally, the revenue generated from the 45,000-square-foot installation will be directed into a community wealth fund, which will support future initiatives such as additional solar projects and other sustainability efforts.

This groundbreaking project is the result of a partnership between UPROSE, Brooklyn’s oldest Latino community-based organization focused on environmental and social justice, and Working Power, an energy developer committed to building community-owned clean energy solutions in historically underinvested communities.

A Blueprint for Energy Justice

In the face of increasing climate disasters and federal policies that have rolled back climate and energy protections, the Sunset Park Solar project has been hailed as a "blueprint" for energy justice. Advocates argue that this initiative sets a powerful precedent for similar community-driven energy projects across the country. By placing control over energy systems in the hands of frontline communities, the project aims to foster economic resilience, ensure equitable participation in energy generation and distribution, and create green jobs.

Elizabeth Yeampierre, executive director of UPROSE, emphasized the importance of this project during a time when the federal government is withdrawing support for renewable energy. She pointed out that while scientists continue to warn about the dangers of climate change, the administration is increasing reliance on fossil fuels, which are the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions.

“Amidst all the challenges our communities face, [Sunset Park Solar] is good news,” Yeampierre said. “Investing in organizations like ours and in community vision means investing in what is possible.”

Yeampierre also highlighted that community-led climate initiatives represent true innovation. Unlike high-tech solutions such as AI, green hydrogen, or geoengineering, she believes that the shift toward a renewable economy, driven by community leadership, is the key to a just transition.

Resilience and Leadership

Ian Fischer, co-executive director of Working Power, described the project as a “story of resilience.” He stressed the importance of prioritizing frontline communities’ leadership in shaping the clean energy future. Fischer called for stronger local government support and state-level policies to enable more community-led solutions.

Council Member Alexa Avilés (D-Brooklyn) praised the project, calling it “by and for the people.” She expressed hope that cities nationwide would adopt similar models of locally owned renewable solutions. Avilés noted that the project represents innovation and progress in a time of political uncertainty and declining federal support for climate action.

“The importance of this project can’t be overstated,” Avilés said. “It is a reminder of what is possible when we invest in community leadership and sustainable development.”

Supporting the Green Economy

The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), which manages the BAT, has leased the rooftop space to UPROSE and Working Power for the solar project. Jennifer Brown, senior vice president of asset management at NYCEDC, stated that the project aligns with the city’s Green Economy Action Plan and broader green economy initiatives.

Brown emphasized that the project represents a major milestone in bringing modern innovation to the waterfront while creating job opportunities for residents in emerging industries.

Daniel Chu, senior energy planner with the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance, addressed the city's affordability crisis. He noted that his organization and UPROSE are working to oppose Con Edison’s proposed rent hike of over 18% in 2026. Chu highlighted how the project serves as a model for transitioning away from fossil fuels and providing energy savings to households, allowing money to stay within communities.

A Model for the Future

The Sunset Park Solar project demonstrates the power of community-driven solutions in addressing climate change and energy inequality. As the initiative moves forward, it offers a blueprint for other communities seeking to reclaim control over their energy systems and build a more sustainable and equitable future.