Energy Empowersis telling the story how 

America is building a clean energy economy. By working 

together, Americans are improving efficiency, building 

sustainable businesses that create new jobs, and learning 

new skills to generate clean energy. 

It’s our mission to put names and faces to the people who 

work on energy efficiency in the residential, commercial, 

and industrial sectors and renewable projects, including 

solar, wind and water, biomass, geothermal, and hydrogen 

and fuel cells, supported by the Department of Energy and 

beyond. 

Visit http://eereblogs.energy.gov/energyempowers/ to 

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changing people’s lives, stimulating the economy, and 

moving us closer to a sustainable future. 

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In our collection of videos, you'll witness the first-hand 

stories of people like you who have taken the next steps 

toward a future of renewed prosperity. 

By pushing the limits of energy efficiency and renewable 

energy technologies and supporting some of America's 

most innovative businesses, we are saving American jobs 

and continuing to build a clean-energy economy that will 

improve the lives and reward the ingenuity of the 

American people. 

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More than ever before, we want to hear about your 

great work in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and 

the Recovery Act. How has your life been touched? 

Do you have a story to tell? 

If so, we want to hear it. Visit 

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Success Stories 

 

San Antonio spurs increase in solar energy production 

They might always remember the Alamo, but such tourist attractions aren’t the only thing spurring growth in San 

Antonio — this Texas city is incorporating solar power into its diversified energy portfolio. 

In June, CPS Energy signed a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement to develop a solar project using SunCatcher

power systems. These large, concave bowls look like large satellite dishes. Not only will these systems help power

Texas, but also they are designed to take advantage of tried-and-true automotive supply chains in the U.S. Rust Belt,

using stamped sheet metal, which could help bring new life to manufacturers there. 

SunCatcher systems harness solar energy | Photo courtesy 

CPS Energy 

 “The widespread application of solar energy will create new jobs [and 

have] a beneficial economic impact,” Anita Ledbetter, executive director 

of Build San Antonio Green, the city’s residential green building 

program, says, adding that there are also benefits to be had in better air 

quality and reduction on the electrical grid’s load. 

The SunCatcher announcement was followed by the Blue Wing Solar 

project, a solar electricity production program. This installation will help 

CPS Energy toward its ambitious goal of achieving renewable-energy 

capacity equal to 20 percent of customers’ peak demand. CPS Energy 

estimates Blue Wing will create about 100 full-time jobs during 

construction and several permanent jobs during the project’s operation. 

 SMILE Weatherization Coordinator Venice Roberts shows client 

Shelia Sturgis an attic tent, which conserves energy and decreases 

costs. | Photo by Susannah Malbreaux 

Non-profit making a difference in Louisiana 

Change is in the air at SMILE Community Action Agency. The 

non-profit received a $3 million American Reinvestment and 

Recovery Act grant for its weatherization program. With the 

needed boost in funding Louisiana-based SMILE can increase its 

reach. 

SMILE targets five unique communities, helping locals conserve 

energy and save money. Venice Roberts, who both coordinates 

and implements SMILEs weatherization program says there’s 

been a surge in interest and applications, “Everything has changed 

tremendously. There’s been an abundance of people calling about 

weatherization.” 

SMILE plans to use part of the funding to increase their local 

outreach. Venice says more frequent town hall forums will help 

SMILE promote the benefits of weatherization. By increasing 

awareness SMILE hopes to make experiences like that of client 

Sheila Sturgis a reality for more residents. 

“It was a very good experience, they did a good job and were professional” says Sheila of the weatherization work 

done on her home. Sheila says after the upgrades her energy bill has decreased by 20 percent, “It’s really saving us a 

lot of money.” She adds “I would recommend it to others and yes I have passed it along.”