Hello solar enthusiasts, it is once again my pleasure to bring you the latest news and updates from the solar industry. As a solar expert, I’m constantly looking out for stories that might impact solar companies, the creation of solar panels for your home, and the overall state of the solar industry. This week we’re diving into a recent event at one of the prominent New York-based solar companies, EmPower Solar, that could have ripple effects throughout the industry.
Established solar companies play a critical role in helping many around the state turn towards green energy, with innovative solar arrays for homes. But recently, EmPower Solar found itself in a bit of a quandary. The company made the tough call to furlough 40% of its workforce due to what they cited as macroeconomic factors such as high interest rates and inflation affecting demand for their services. This move has led to a markedly fraught atmosphere within the company, as this move came just a week after their employees voted to join the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 259.
The vote, taken by 49 employees, was prompted by concerns over aspects like working conditions and safety, as well as job security and fair compensation. This vote split the employees, with 29 in favor of unionizing and 16 opposing. After this, EmPower Solar deemed it necessary to handle the situation by legal means, citing “coercion, incl’g statements or acts of violence” by the union.
This situation has led to significant tension within the company, with furloughed workers picketing the EmPower Solar facilities. On the other hand, the company is insisting that the decision to furlough workers was based solely on economic factors and not the result of the union vote. I’ll be here to monitor and update you on how this situation evolves.
In the meantime, EmPower Solar has listed 13 new full-time positions on their website. It will be interesting to see how this move impacts the current situation and the overall climate within the company. It’s a tricky time and it seems like the road ahead may be a little rocky.
Additionally, industry trends indicate a slowdown in community scale solar coming online in 2023, however, commercial installations have remained constant. Now more than ever, it stresses the importance of supporting and investing in solar companies that provide solar panels for your home. The benefits are clear: reduced energy costs, reducing carbon footprint, and aiding in the battle against climate change.
In other news, a significant event in the industry, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the Laborers International Union of North America, and the International Union of Operating Engineers signed a national tri-trade solar agreement, confining their roles in utility-scale solar projects across the United States.
In conclusion, from major solar companies to the individual contemplating solar panels for your home, the solar industry is in a continuous state of flux. As an individual solar expert, my aim is to keep you abreast of these developments so you can make informed decisions whether you are looking to invest in a solar array for your home or keep tabs on the industry’s landscape. So, stay tuned for more updates and continue to support the green energy movement!
Original Article: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/01/11/solar-workers-furloughed-days-after-unionizing/
