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 Spanish Program Coordinator, Erika Carranza.

“Life is short, so enjoy it to the fullest.”

1. Describe your role at CEP and what makes you passionate about your position.
   I’m the Spanish Solar Program Coordinator. My role allows me to assist our low income community and support environmental sustainability. I share information about the Oregon Community Solar Program (OCSP) with Spanish speakers. I feel passionate about bringing valuable information about the OCSP to the Spanish-speaking community in order to help these families to save money and work towards building climate resilience.

2. What is your work background and one unique skill you bring to CEP? I have been working with the Latino Community for many years, providing multiple resources in Spanish. My unique skill is my ability to form strong connections within our community. I am constantly creating new relationships with community based organizations during our work together. I also provide services to diverse groups in the Portland area.

3. Describe one accomplishment you’ve made at CEP or a goal you have for the future in this role. I have been able to connect Spanish speakers with CEP’s services by translating our Savings with Solar workshops to Spanish and cultivating partnerships with culturally-specific partners. My goal is to continue extending our services to the Spanish-speaking community so that they may benefit from the Oregon Community Solar Program and learn how to save money on their electricity bills.

4. If you had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?  If I had to pick, I would choose tacos with different types of salsas.