Showcasing Clean Energy’s Future
The revamped storefront is modeled after SoCalGas’ [H2] Innovation Experience.
Part of SoCalGas’ ASPIRE 2045 sustainability goal
SoCalGas unveiled its newly revamped storefront at Junior Achievement of SoCal’s Finance Park, an interactive educational space of business storefronts just outside of Griffith Park that provides students with lessons on financial literacy.
JA Finance Park hosts more than 15,000 visitors including students and volunteers each year. Drawing inspiration from SoCalGas’ H2 Innovation Experience ([H2]IE) in Downey, Calif., SoCalGas’ storefront provides practical experiences in personal finance, sustainability and career exploration in STEM fields. The utility has collaborated with the organization for over 23 years and has contributed more than $300,000 to help foster leadership skills in the next generation.
“This educational space is more than just an exhibit; it’s a foundation for empowering young minds with practical life skills and a deeper understanding of energy efficiency,” said Paul Goldstein, Vice President of Gas Transmission and Storage at SoCalGas and JASoCal Board Member. “SoCalGas employee volunteers help bring real-world financial and energy-efficient scenarios to life for students through a hands-on approach, nurturing future leaders by equipping them with vital skills. We’re committed to inspiring a new generation to lead in sustainable energy through education and practical experiences.”
The storefront was remodeled to mirror the design of SoCalGas’ [H2]IE, a clean hydrogen microgrid demonstration project that draws power from solar panels during the day and converts excess renewable energy into clean hydrogen to power the home at night. The [H2]IE could power up to 100 homes and highlights how microgrid technology can produce power locally and help create more sustainable communities. The project has been named a World-Changing Idea by Fast Company and was also awarded the U.S. Green Building Council of L.A.’s Sustainable Innovation Award.
As part of SoCalGas’ ASPIRE 2045 sustainability goals, the utility aims to invest $50 million across five years to help drive positive change in diverse and underserved communities. SoCalGas. In line with these efforts, SoCalGas has awarded more than $3.5 million in scholarships to students through its scholarship programs since 2001.