RIO LINDA, Calif. – Our local power provider, SMUD, is investing over half a million dollars – $532,000 to be exact – into community projects across the Sacramento region, including areas serving Rio Linda residents. The funding comes from SMUD’s annual Shine program and will support 21 local nonprofit organizations working towards a cleaner energy future for everyone.
This year’s grants focus heavily on initiatives that directly impact community well-being and future opportunities. Key areas include:
- Developing a Zero Carbon Workforce: Training local people for jobs in the growing clean energy sector.
- Boosting Clean Energy & STEM Education: Providing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math learning opportunities, especially for young people in under-resourced areas.
- Creating Healthier Environments: Supporting projects focused on environmental justice, equity, planting more trees, and restoring natural habitats.
- Promoting Clean Energy: Funding efforts related to energy efficiency and switching to electric power.
These projects align with SMUD’s goal to generate electricity completely carbon-free by 2030.
“SMUD’s vision for a clean energy future is about much more than transforming our power plants, it’s about equitably transforming the communities we serve,” stated SMUD CEO and General Manager Paul Lau. He emphasized that the Shine program helps local nonprofits create “meaningful change” that will benefit the entire region, including communities like Rio Linda.
The 21 nonprofits were selected from nearly 100 applicants. The grants, ranging from $1,000 to $100,000, require matching funds from the receiving organizations to maximize their impact.
While specific Rio Linda-based groups weren’t listed this year, many of the selected organizations serve residents across SMUD’s entire territory. The funded programs aim to provide job skills, educational opportunities, and environmental improvements that can benefit families right here in our community.
Organizations Receiving 2024 Shine Awards Include:
- Zero Carbon Workforce Development: Compassion Planet, NextGen Climate America, STRIVE Community Health Institute
- Clean Energy & STEM Education: A Different Path, A Seat at the Table Community Initiative, Assist Academy, Code 4 Hood, Dr. Ephraim Williams Family Life Center, HumanBulb, Perspectives by Capsity, San Juan Education Foundation
- Environmental Justice & Equity / Healthier Environments: 80 Watt District (Inclusive Economic Development), Arab Community Center for Integration Services, California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, Daughters of Zion Enterpryz, Folsom Historic District Association, Iranian American Cultural & Educational Center, Rebuilding Together Sacramento, The River District, Safety Center, Sunrise Christian Food Ministry
SMUD, our community-owned electric service for over 75 years, remains committed to providing reliable, low-cost power (currently with rates often 50% lower than neighboring utilities) while working towards its zero-carbon goal. In 2023, their power supply was already 78% carbon-free on average.
For more details about the SMUD Shine program and future grant opportunities for local nonprofits, visit smud.org/Shine.
