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

A New Era of Community-Led Renewable Energy

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 alike.

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

The 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 dedicated to building community-owned clean energy and wealth in historically underinvested communities.

A Blueprint for Energy Justice

In the face of increasing climate disasters and policies that undermine renewable energy, the Sunset Park Solar project is being hailed as a “blueprint” for energy justice. Advocates argue that this initiative demonstrates how frontline communities can reclaim control over their energy systems, build economic resilience, and have a voice in how energy is generated and distributed while creating green jobs.

Elizabeth Yeampierre, executive director of UPROSE, emphasized the importance of the project in the current climate crisis. She pointed out that while scientists are sounding alarms about climate change, the federal government is simultaneously reducing investments in renewable energy and increasing reliance on fossil fuels, which are the primary contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

“We want to remind people that when you invest in organizations like ours and in community, community vision, that you are investing in what is possible,” Yeampierre said.

Innovation Through Community Leadership

Yeampierre highlighted that community-led climate initiatives are the true innovation, contrasting them with technologies like AI, green hydrogen, and geoengineering. She described the project as a “just transition” — a shift from an extractive economy to a renewable one that creates community wealth.

Ian Fischer, co-executive director of Working Power, called the project a “story of resilience.” He emphasized the importance of prioritizing frontline communities’ leadership in building the clean energy future. “Now more than ever, we need community-led solutions supported by local government and strong state policies,” Fischer said.

Council Member Alexa Avilés (D-Brooklyn) praised the project, calling it “by and for the people.” She expressed hope that cities across the country would adopt similar models of locally owned renewable solutions. “The importance of this project just can’t be overstated,” she said. “Amidst the challenges we face, this is innovation and greatness.”

Supporting Local Economy and Sustainability

The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), which manages the BAT, is leasing 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 supports the development of good-paying jobs for residents in the industries of today and tomorrow.

Daniel Chu, senior energy planner with the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance, addressed the affordability crisis in the city. He noted that his organization and UPROSE are working against Con Edison’s proposed rent hike of more than 18% in 2026. He said the project not only provides an opportunity to transition away from fossil fuels but also serves as a model for energy savings that can benefit households and put money back into people’s homes.

A Model for the Future

The Sunset Park Solar project represents a powerful example of how community-driven initiatives can lead the way in the transition to a sustainable and equitable energy future. By empowering local residents, fostering economic resilience, and promoting clean energy, this project sets a precedent for similar efforts across the country. It shows that when communities take the lead, they can create meaningful change that benefits both the environment and the people who live in it.