How I Built This with Guy Raz Reinvesting in our cities with renewable energy with Donnel Baird of BlocPower (2022)
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Jun 22, 2023 Donnel Baird, founder of BlocPower, champions the electrification and decarbonization of buildings, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. He shares his journey from experiencing energy poverty in Brooklyn to advocating for sustainable living. The discussion explores the stark disparities in renewable energy access and the pivotal role of municipal initiatives in creating greener urban spaces. Baird emphasizes the urgent need for retrofitting buildings, highlights innovative financial models, and underscores the social impact of empowering communities through green initiatives.
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Childhood in Brooklyn
- Donnel Baird's family emigrated from Guyana to Brooklyn where they faced heating challenges.
- They and their neighbors used ovens for heat due to unaffordable building heating systems.
Energy Poverty Across America
- While campaigning for Obama, Baird noticed energy waste in low-income buildings across several states.
- This mirrored his childhood experience, highlighting a pattern of energy poverty and health risks.
The Pastor's Energy Bill
- A pastor in Bed-Stuy contacted Baird about his $10,000 monthly energy bill for his large church building.
- This highlighted the financial strain of energy costs on low-income communities, inspiring Baird's mission.