As part of the strategy to modernize Puerto Rico’s power grid, U.S. Energy Sec. Jennifer Granholm announced new funding initiatives aimed at bringing solar panels to disadvantaged residents of Puerto Rico.

The announcement came during the Hispanics in Energy Reception in San Juan, Puerto Rico on July 31, which marked a significant step forward in addressing energy disparities and advancing clean energy accessibility for Puerto Rico residents.

Executives from Great Lakes Solex PR, LLC., an Illinois, minority-owned, solar energy company were particularly keen on the announcement as the company has made a commitment to providing solar solutions to underserved communities, particularly in Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland.

“We are honored to have been part of the Hispanics in Energy Reception and to witness Secretary Granholm’s announcement of new funding initiatives,” states Sam Sanchez, president and co-founder of Great Lakes Solex. “Our participation underscores our commitment to driving positive change through sustainable renewable energy solutions. We are excited about the prospect of contributing to Puerto Rico’s renewable energy landscape.”

Great Lakes Solex plans to open a solar panel facility in Aguadilla, PR that will produce 6 Gigawatts of solar panels annually, create more than 800 new jobs, and partner with post-secondary education institutions to create workforce development pipeline training programs. 

In addition, Great Lakes Solex’s leadership met with Mayor Julio Roldán Concepcíon of Aguadilla to discuss the establishment of a state-of-the-art solar manufacturing facility in the municipality. The plant will bolster local direct and indirect employment opportunities and also contribute significantly to the growth of renewable energy generation in the region.

Joining Great Lakes Solex in Puerto Rico was Jaime di Paulo, president and CEO of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC).

“The IHCC supports member companies such as Great Lakes that look to expand business growth and development in Puerto Rico,” states di Paulo. “IHCC will actively seek to identify other Illinois-based companies that may be ripe for business opportunities on the island and look forward to hosting Mayor Roldán Concepcíon in Chicago in the coming weeks.”

Great Lakes Solex has also strategically partnered with Invest Puerto Rico (IPR), the island’s business attraction organization. IPR helps companies interested in getting established on the island by assisting them in navigating incentives, connecting them to resources for real estate selection and access to talent, and providing introductions to key stakeholders like sector experts and industry associations.

With the support of Hispanics in Energy, the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Invest Puerto Rico, Great Lakes Solex will continue to innovate and collaborate toward a cleaner and more inclusive energy future. The company remains steadfast in its dedication to creating lasting impacts in communities and driving progress in the realm of solar energy.