

Student Services
Faith in Energy:
Empowering Churches for a Sustainable Future
MREP is committed to creating pathways for minority stakeholders to thrive in California’s renewable energy sector.
Our Renewable Energy Business and Workforce Development Opportunities focus on equipping individuals and businesses with the skills, resources, and connections needed to succeed in the Green Economy.
Whether it’s supporting entrepreneurs in launching renewable energy ventures, helping small businesses integrate sustainable practices, or providing workforce training for high-demand clean energy careers, our programs are designed to drive economic growth while promoting environmental sustainability.
The ideal candidates for the “Green Building Advantage’s” pilot program comprise of a collaborative and inclusive group of twenty (20) minority real estate and community development professionals who not only want to gain more insight into the renewable energy sector, but also those whose careers and businesses will play a vital role in South LA’s successful transition into a Green Economy.
Therefore, targeted candidates for this program include, but are not limited to the following:
Target Candidates
Real Estate Development Professionals
Commercial Property Owners
Real Estate Professionals
Requirements
Application
Interview
Availability
Project-Ready
Green Building Advantage:
Renewable Energy Strategies for Multifamily
& Commercial Developers
During the pilot years, participants will be able to enjoy COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION into the "Green Building Advantage" program, ensuring that the cost of admission is not a barrier to accessing its comprehensive curriculum and industry resources.
As a result, potential REET Candidates will be required to complete an online application and undergo an in-person interview conducted by a panel of MREP Board Executives and renewable energy experts.
Alongside possessing a relevant professional background, REET Candidates will also be chosen based on their genuine desire to advance their businesses, real estate assets, and/or career goals into the Green Economy.
Therefore, participants will also be selected based on their ability and demonstrated commitment to attend all classes, as well as have the desire, financial capability, and operations to successfully implement a renewable energy project, initiative, program, professional service, and/or obtain a small business procurement or workforce development contract.
However, if a student misses more than two (2) REET classes, they automatically forfeit their status in the program and will be ineligible from receiving the array of graduation benefits upon completion of the fifteen (15) weeks
An opening reception and networking event fostering a sense of community among participants, guest instructors, community partners, and corporate sponsors.
Held in honor of Earth Day 2025, the Urban Renewable Energy Summit is a unique event dedicated to advancing climate resilience, energy equity, and sustainable innovation within Los Angeles County’s urban marketplace.
Hosted by AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles (AltaSea) and the Minority Renewable Energy Project of California (MREP), this innovative conference will bring together over 200 Urban Angelenos with multifamily developers, homeowners, commercial property owners, small business leaders, workforce professionals, and community advocates to explore the impact of climate change, the urgency of energy resiliency, and the vital role of diverse leadership as LA County begins to heal and rebuild from the devastating effects of the recent SoCal wildfires.
Through the theme “Reclaiming Our Sun and Water,” the Urban Renewable Energy Summit will celebrate the past, present, and future of minority leadership in environmental stewardship, while also highlighting the importance of their contributions in clean energy innovation and equitable access within today’s green and blue economies.
This free community summit will feature engaging panel discussions, and an interactive clean energy expo of resource organizations, businesses, and educational programs centered around three key themes:
Sustainable Development & Advocacy: Strategies for building and financing resilient communities, as well as the importance of policy, public awareness, and equitable access to clean energy solutions.
Innovations & Entrepreneurship: Emerging technologies, business opportunities, and renewable energy trends within the green and blue economies.
Workforce Development & Career Pathways: Expanding minority job and training opportunities in renewable energy, offshore wind, EV infrastructure, and more.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, the Urban Renewable Energy Summit will also serve as an opportunity to introduce AltaSea, offering attendees a rare chance to connect with climate and marine industry leaders, scientists, educators, and businesses working toward a cleaner, more sustainable blue future for all Angelenos.
The event will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 10:30am to 2:30pm at the AltaSea Campus: 2451 South Signal Street, Berth 60, San Pedro, CA 90731, in Los Angeles County.
An exploration of LA County’s existing DEI initiatives and renewable energy incentive programs.
A foundational module covering environmental benefits, sustainable solutions, and economic considerations when determining renewable energy strategies for residential and commercial assets.
This summit is designed for minority multifamily developers, homeowners, commercial property owners, entrepreneurs, job seekers, parents, students (of all ages), and community leaders interested in exploring clean energy solutions, business opportunities, and career pathways within LA County's blue and green economies.
No admission. This is a FREE community event.
In-depth examination of various business models, including considerations for PV system ownership and third-party arrangements, electricity management in tenant leases, sell-back to the grid programs, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
You can register online at AltaMREP.eventbrite.com.
Practical insights into site selection and conducting technical energy audits for optimal project planning.
An exploration of Time-of-Use (TOU) Charges and their implications on energy consumption and cost.
The registration deadline is April 10, 2025. Pre-registration is encouraged to secure your spot.
Pre-registration is recommended and required. If space allows, limited same-day registration may be available.
A deep dive into evaluating and optimizing electricity usage in large buildings, including multifamily residential, commercial, and retail properties.
Key aspects to consider in the design phase of renewable energy projects.
Yes! FREE PARKING is available on-site along Berths 58-60. Rideshare is encouraged.
Detailed exploration of financing options and in-depth understanding of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Carbon Credits.
AVOID RANGE ANXIETY, charge your car before you come! There are NO public EV Chargers on-site. However, there are several EV charging stations available nearby.
CLICK HERE to see a full list: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nuF2p5AUpRrj1AQS6
Examination of the integration of electric vehicles charging stations on commercial and multifamily residential parking lots
Yes! A complimentary refreshment station will be offered during the opening reception, and there will also be food made available for purchase from the following on-site vendors:
Pizza provided by Miller Butler
Soul Food Plates by Specialty Events Catering
Organize participants into teams for the purpose of dissecting practical real estate scenarios. The teams will be tasked with applying tangible renewable energy solutions and formulating financing strategies based on real-world considerations
The Summit includes:
Panel discussions on clean energy, sustainability, and business opportunities.
Networking opportunities with industry professionals.
A community expo featuring clean energy organizations, workforce development programs, and government resources.
Attendees are welcome to join for the full day or select sessions that interest them.
Engaging dialogues and presentations on workforce development and career opportunities that focus on transitional skills within the renewable energy sector.
We recommend bringing business cards, a notebook, and any questions for panelists and exhibitors.
Serves as a dedicated week for case study teams to come together off-site and collaboratively focus on refining and developing their project presentations.
Collaborative presentations allowing participants to showcase their understanding of renewable energy tools and application of sustainable strategies
Yes! The Clean Energy Resource Expo will feature workforce development programs, job opportunities, and small business resources from industry leaders and community organizations.
"A celebratory conclusion to the program, recognizing the achievements of participants with a certificate, program lapel pen, and closing reception.
The summit will feature blue and green educational programs, career exploration opportunities, and interactive exhibits designed to introduce young adult and youth attendees to the clean energy and sustainability sectors.
Yes, the venue is ADA-compliant, and appropriate accommodations can be made available as needed. Please contact Robin Aube, Director of Advancement, AltaSea in advance for specific ADA requests at RAube@AltaSea.org or directly at 424-210-4973.
No, pets are not allowed on the AltaSea Campus except approved service animals.
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sherri Smith-Reese, Project Director, MREP at Sherri.MREP@gmail.com or directly at 323-868-3993 for more information.
Exhibitors are INVITE-ONLY tabling opportunities. To inquire for consideration, please email your request to MREPEvents@gmail.com.
PLEASE NOTE: Exhibitor and Sponsorship deadline is APRIL 1, 2025!
AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles is dedicated to accelerating scientific collaboration, advancing an emerging blue economy through business innovation and job creation, and inspiring the next generation, all for a more sustainable, just, and equitable world.
We will turn to the ocean to develop solutions for some of the planet’s most pressing challenges, such as climate change, energy supply and global food security – and prepare today’s generation of students for future jobs in science, technology, engineering, business and the ocean.
AltaSea was created in 2014 as an independent nonprofit organization to lead the multiple jurisdictions and stakeholder groups in the creation of a world-class oceanographic center designed to expand science-based understanding of the ocean; incubate and sustain ocean-related businesses; and pioneer ocean-based education programs.
With a 50-year lease from the Port of Los Angeles, we have renovated outdated warehouses, creating a Center for Innovation that includes education space, docks for exploration vessels and 180,000+ square feet of research and development space for Blue Economy businesses.
Powered by this asset, AltaSea has created a model to allow business to fuel science, science to stimulate business, and the whole of the effort to open new school-to-career pathways for disadvantaged youth in the local community.
The Minority Renewable Energy Project of California (MREP of CA) is a pioneering nonprofit organization dedicated to creating equitable pathways into California’s rapidly evolving renewable energy industry.
Through comprehensive seminars, strategic networking events, and collaborative corporate and community partnerships, MREP of CA works to build a more inclusive, empowered, and diverse clean energy future for minority professionals, businesses, and communities across Southern and Northern California.
Founded by Starlett Quarles in October 2024, MREP of CA’s vision is to lead a statewide minority renewable energy initiative that ensures all communities—regardless of socioeconomic background—have access to the opportunities, resources, and benefits of California’s clean energy transition.
By addressing sociocultural, educational, and economic disparities within the sector, MREP of CA actively works to bridge the gap between minority stakeholders and the state’s growing renewable energy economy.
MREP of CA was established to advocate for greater representation and envisions a clean energy sector that reflects the diverse talents, skills, and entrepreneurial spirit of California’s urban communities.
In partnership with AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, the Minority Renewable Energy Project of California is proud to host its official launch event, the Urban Renewable Energy Summit—a transformative gathering focused on advancing equitable access to the green and blue economies through education, innovation, and workforce development.
KEEP SCROLLING to join our mailing list to be informed about our official website launch and future events! THANK YOU for your interest!😊
Green Building Advantage:
Renewable Energy Strategies for Multifamily
& Commercial Developers
Hosted twice a year during the fall and winter months one night a week from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, REET’s comprehensive curriculum has been crafted to educate participants on how to make informed and fiscally sound decisions regarding the implementation of renewable energy solutions. The 15-week schedule covers key topics in the renewable energy sector, while equipping individuals with best practices, key strategies, and case study project profiles. REET’s course curriculum and weekly program schedule is as follows:
15-Week Program Schedule

Course Commitment & Goal
Level
Advanced
Duration
3 Hours
Schedule
6 Weeks
MREP Goal
Leadership Development
Other REET Programs


RICHARD SMITH
Associate
PRACTICE AREAS:
Civil & Commercial Law, Family Law

DEBBIE LARSEN
Associate
PRACTICE AREAS:
Trust Wills & Probate

BARRY MILES
Associate
PRACTICE AREAS:
Business Law, Commercial Law
Industry Expert Instructors
Participating Instructor Firms
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