Nominations Open Now!

Vote Solar is proud to honor outstanding energy justice heroes with the Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award (formerly the Solar Justice Award). The Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award honors the legacy of a tireless community and environmental justice leader by recognizing Black, Indigenous, and other leaders of color and oppressed ethnic groups. Only individuals who identify as part of these communities are eligible for this award. Eligible individuals must represent community-based organizations and meet the following criteria:

• Long-time leaders in their communities (10+ years of work in energy or environmental justice), may be located anywhere in the U.S. or territories who are
  • Dedicated to improving health and well-being in their community through clean energy
  • Strong coalition builders– able to mobilize support both within and around their community
  • Working at the intersection of racial justice & clean energy access
  • Working to stop extractive and/or polluting industry in their community
  • Working to bring jobs and savings to their community via clean energy opportunities
  • Influencing the state, local, or federal energy policy agenda through direct grassroots advocacy

These award recipients serve as models of environmental justice leadership and inspire us all to work toward a just clean energy transition. In giving this award, Vote Solar aims to honor the critically important role of community-based activism by people of color in driving environmental progress and to increase visibility for the remarkable work of individual leaders. If you are unsure about your eligibility to apply, please direct questions to (cmadray@votesolar.org). 

The awardee will receive a $10,000 financial award that can be used personally or donated to a 501c3 of their choice.

2025 Update: Optional Public Recognition

Given the increased risks for environmental justice leaders of color at this time, public recognition of nominees and awardees is optional this year to prioritize safety and respect for personal choice. This results in the following changes to our process this year:

• The nominee can opt out of publicity if selected as a top 10 nominee, finalist, or awardee.
• This decision will not affect the nominee’s chances of being selected.
• If even one nominee opts out, the process will shift to a closed format where no public announcements will be made. 
• If all nominees choose to be public, the process will include public celebrations through media, website, and social platforms. 
• After we receive nominations, each nominee will be sent a form with more information about the process, including the potential risks and benefits of public recognition. This will help them make an informed decision about whether they want to be publicly recognized.

Nominate Here »

Please note: This list of nomination form questions is provided for your reference and preparation only. All nominations must be submitted through the official online form.