The Energy Coalition: Internship Reflection

Compton, one of the oldest cities in Los Angeles County, has a rich and complex history. Incorporated in 1888 and originally home to the Tongva people, the city was settled in 1867 by pioneering families led by Griffith Dickenson Compton. It evolved from a Methodist farming colony into a densely populated urban area. Despite its rich cultural roots and significance as the "Hub City," Compton has faced systemic challenges, including economic disparities, housing inequities, and social unrest. The 1930s redlining practices categorized minority neighborhoods as "hazardous," creating generational obstacles in home ownership and wealth accumulation. Today, Compton has a population of about 95,000, with a demographic composition of approximately 68% Latinx, 28% Black, and smaller percentages of other racial groups. Although there are signs of gentrification, rising property values and an influx of new residents raise concerns about displacement of long-time residents.

The economic and social inequalities in Compton remain apparent. Food deserts limit residents' access to affordable, healthy food, though initiatives like the Compton Farmers' Market provide some relief. While 85% of households own at least one vehicle, 10% rely on public transit, reflecting uneven transportation infrastructure. High housing costs, with average rents of $1,500 and median home values at $480,000, further strain residents' budgets, particularly given utility costs averaging $300 per month. Healthcare access is somewhat stable, with 85% of residents under 65 insured, but systemic national inequities lead to higher-than-average poverty rates and income disparities. Education and employment inequalities persist, and though approximately 80% of eligible voters are registered, many structural barriers hinder full civic participation. Compton exemplifies a community striving for progress amid long-standing challenges.

Powerville High School

At Powerville High School, there are likely several areas where energy efficiency could be significantly improved. For instance, transitioning the majority of the school’s lighting to modern, energy-efficient LED fixtures would not only reduce energy consumption but also lower operational costs over time. Additionally, evaluating the efficiency of the school’s HVAC system is crucial, as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are often among the most energy-intensive systems in any building. Implementing upgrades or optimizing the system's operation could yield substantial energy savings and create a more sustainable and cost-effective environment.

Powerville Middle School, smaller size naturally results in lower overall energy consumption, making its energy-saving strategies more straightforward to implement and maintain. For example, fewer classrooms and common areas mean that upgrading to LED lighting or installing energy-efficient HVAC systems is less costly and logistically simpler. This scale advantage allows the middle school to optimize its resources more effectively and achieve noticeable energy reductions with relatively modest investments.

Steven Sparker High School has the highest energy costs in the district. To address this, I propose installing solar panels on campus buildings. According to the district’s project proposal sheet, this initiative could reduce energy consumption by up to 30%, leading to substantial cost savings. This investment not only lowers expenses but also supports the school’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Steven Sparker Middle School

Steven Sparker Middle School, with its significantly higher energy consumption compared to Powerville Middle School, serves as a contrasting example of how operational and structural inefficiencies can dramatically impact utility costs. While factors such as larger facilities, older infrastructure, or increased usage hours may contribute to its energy demands, adopting targeted strategies could help Steven Sparker reduce its footprint and align more closely with the efficiency achieved by Powerville Middle.

Energetic High School currently holds the second-highest energy bill in the district. To address this, I recommend transitioning the building’s lighting system to energy-efficient LED lights. According to projections from the district’s proposal sheet, this upgrade would reduce energy consumption by approximately 8%, resulting in significant cost savings over time. Implementing this change not only aligns with sustainability goals but also demonstrates fiscal responsibility.

Energetic Middle School currently holds the third-highest energy bill in the district. This could be resolved by involving and leveraging renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to offset energy costs. This not only reduces the school's reliance on grid power but also aligns with long-term sustainability goals. Behavioral initiatives, such as implementing "power-down" protocols for electronic devices and encouraging mindful energy use among staff and students, can complement these technological upgrades.

To foster long-term sustainability and optimize financial resources, an initiative centered on energy efficiency and solar financing for the Powerville School District is proposed. By engaging with grants and collaborating with the Powerville Local Government Partnership Program, the district can transition to advanced energy systems, such as LED lighting, upgraded HVAC technologies, and solar installations. This transformation not only has the potential to significantly reduce utility costs but also positions the district as a forward-thinking leader in environmental protection . More than just immediate savings, this initiative cultivates a sustainable mind, allowing reinvestment into educational priorities while responding to the increasing demand for climate-conscious infrastructure.

A great example of a career in the energy field is a Renewable Energy Engineer. These professionals work on creating and improving sustainable energy systems, like wind or solar power. One inspiring figure in this area is Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist and climate expert. While her main focus is ocean conservation, she has contributed to renewable energy projects, especially offshore wind energy, which combines clean energy production with protecting marine ecosystems.

Dr. Johnson works to ensure that renewable energy projects, like wind farms, don’t harm the environment and actually help communities that are most affected by climate change. She has also worked with leaders to create policies that make clean energy accessible to everyone. Dr. Johnson’s work shows how careers in energy aren’t just about technology—they’re also about protecting the planet and making sure everyone benefits from the solutions.