In the wake of Hurricane Helene, communities across Western North Carolina were reminded how fragile power systems can be during a crisis. It was this moment that sparked the Repower WNC Program, Sugar Hollow Solar’s initiative to expand access to solar energy while strengthening local resilience. But the program soon evolved into something even more transformative: an opportunity to educate the next generation of renewable energy leaders.

From Solar Panels to a Learning Opportunity

Almost a year after Hurricane Helene, the Footprint Project had solar panels and a Tesla Powerwall available from a previous donation that were no longer needed. After restoring power to their own station following the storm, the panels and battery had served their immediate purpose, and they were able to use at Camp Grier, a local youth-focused property that hosts educational programs. This thoughtful donation planted the seed for a new kind of learning opportunity—one that could connect young people directly with the growing field of renewable energy.

At the same time, the Works Project (WORX), a career-connected learning program run by Camp Grier, was exploring ways to give students meaningful exposure to growing industries like sustainable energy and the building trades. WORX focuses on providing middle and high school students from Buncombe County with hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for future careers. By combining the donated solar panels with WORX’s educational mission, a perfect opportunity emerged: students could learn by doing—gaining practical skills, exploring the solar industry, and contributing to a sustainable, community-centered project—all on the grounds of Camp Grier.

Sara Jarrell, Director of WORX, recalls the moment everything aligned:

“We had the solar panels and some grant funding from Land of Sky, but we needed the expertise. That’s where Sugar Hollow Solar came in—to bring real-world solar knowledge to young people.”

With funding support from Land of Sky and technical guidance from Sugar Hollow Solar, a unique partnership formed. The goal was simple: provide a hands-on, multi-department experience where youth could learn everything from marketing and sales to installation and customer relations in the solar industry.

Building the Program

WORX Program Participants at a local community event

Participants for this hands-on solar experience were recruited through Land of Sky’s Go Places program, which connects local youth with career exploration and workforce development opportunities. The program brought together 2 young adults who were eager to gain practical, real-world skills in growing industries like renewable energy. By collaborating with WORX at Camp Grier and Sugar Hollow Solar, Go Places participants had the chance to explore multiple aspects of the solar industry while contributing to a project that directly benefited their community.

Once the participants were selected, Sugar Hollow Solar’s team guided them through every aspect of a solar project:

Marketing: Engaging with the public at local festivals to introduce solar, learning how to communicate its benefits to different audiences.
Sales: Visiting homes to assess solar needs, understanding ethical customer interactions, and learning how honesty and integrity build trust.
Installation: Hands-on training on roof safety, panel setup, inverter installation, and battery placement.

Install day at WORX Facility at Camp Grier.

For Simeon, one of the participants, it was a chance to see the business world from every angle:

“I learned how to reach different audiences and that actually going out and talking to customers helps bring in new opportunities. I also learned how to install a battery and saw the whole installation process up close.”

A Solar-Powered Hub for Education and Community

Beyond the technical skills, the project created a solar and battery backup-powered lodge that serves multiple purposes. For WORX, it’s a teaching site where students can safely learn about renewable energy. For the community, it’s a hub of resilience—providing electricity and connectivity during emergencies, just as the area experienced after Hurricane Helene.

Sara Jarrell emphasizes the broader mission:

“This program isn’t just about solar. It’s about giving young people the skills to pursue sustainable careers and giving our community resources that matter, especially in times of need. Good partnerships—like the one with Sugar Hollow Solar and Land of Sky—make a complete difference.”

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

The Repower WNC partnership with WORX demonstrates the power of collaboration. By combining grant funding, donated solar panels, and industry expertise, this program created an educational pipeline, lowered operational costs for youth programs, and strengthened community resilience. Students like Simeon walk away not only with technical knowledge but also with inspiration and insight into how they might contribute to a sustainable future.

Today, this work is rooted even more deeply in place. Conserving Carolina—Sugar Hollow Solar’s newest nonprofit referral partner—is now the owner and steward of Camp Grier’s land, including the 226-acre Fairview Community Forest and the heart of the property that houses the WORX Project. Through this nonprofit partnership, every Sugar Hollow Solar referral supports Conserving Carolina’s efforts to protect this land for public access, outdoor education, and long-term community benefit. It’s a full-circle moment: clean energy powering a learning space, conserved land creating opportunity, and young people discovering careers that keep Western North Carolina resilient for generations to come.

“This experience was great. I can tell they really care about their customers and employees. I would work here one day if the opportunity ever became available,” Simeon said.

Repower WNC is more than solar—it’s about creating opportunity, teaching stewardship of the environment, and empowering a new generation to shine.