CONGRESSMAN BENNIE G. THOMPSON ANNOUNCES DOE AWARD TO POWER-UP JACKSON

(BOLTON, MS) Today, Congressman Bennie Thompson disclosed that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has unveiled the Phase 1 winners of the Solutions for Lasting, Viable Energy Infrastructure Technologies (SOLVE IT) Prize. With over $2 million awarded, this phase recognizes 28 outstanding projects, marking the commencement of the prize's journey. Among these, Power-Up Jackson from Jackson, Mississippi stands out for its endeavor to rejuvenate West Jackson through energy-efficient housing and solar installations, fostering sustainability and empowering local residents.

Initiated by the Office of Technology Transitions (OTT) in collaboration with the Offices of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) and Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), the SOLVE IT Prize aims to empower communities in identifying and implementing innovative clean energy solutions tailored to their specific requirements. As they enter Phase 2 of the prize, the Engage Phase, the 28 winning teams from Phase 1 will collaborate with community stakeholders to develop a vision for their clean energy or decarbonization projects. In the third and final Establish Phase, they will demonstrate that they have the actionable plans and confirmed commitments required to see their project through.

At the culmination of Phase 3, Power-Up Jackson has the potential to be one of three SOLVE IT grand prize winners who will be awarded $500,000 each, in support of their clean energy community project.