Staff Spotlight

Community Energy Project is proud to provide a variety of direct, in-homes services and educational workshops, and participate in important advocacy work. Behind all of these vital efforts is a team of vibrant, multifaceted, and hardworking individuals. We are excited to introduce the CEP Staff Spotlight, a series dedicated to the people who make everything we do possible. Today’s spotlight shines on CEP’s Community Solar Program Coordinator, Olivia Tym

1. Describe your role at CEP and what makes you passionate about your position.

I teach workshops about the low-income Oregon Community Solar Program (OCSP), provide 1:1 education, manage data and work with solar project managers to ensure program requirements are met. The community solar coordinator works to connect low-income households to OCSP, so I spend a lot of time talking with people who are excited about renewable energy but haven’t had the opportunity to put solar panels on their home. I love seeing how the low-income community solar program can provide financial relief to people who are struggling and simultaneously propel Oregon towards a more sustainable future.

2. What is your work background and one unique skill you bring to CEP?

My background is primarily in education. I have worked in Portland Public Schools, nonprofit spaces, and in private education teaching a wide range of ages and subjects. I think that all of this experience gave me the skills to distill complex information and program details into a resource that people can utilize for specific needs and experiences. 

3. Describe one accomplishment you’ve made at CEP or a goal you have for the future in this role.

As the Low-Income Facilitator, CEP is involved in advocating for program policies and design that benefits low-income participants in the Oregon Community Solar Program. During my time in this role, I’ve been able to be a part of making sure changes to the program do no harm to the people we serve. Our presence on the Program Administration team means that low-income participants have a voice and can contribute input to shape policies. We have learned a lot through this process, and I’m excited to join more national conversations about low-income community solar that would benefit other states who are in the early stages of designing their own community solar program. 

4. If you had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be? 

Miso ramen with tofu and tons of veggies – I don’t think I would ever get sick of it!