Chanell Scott Contreras: Championing Environmental Equity in Detroit

Chanell Scott Contreras made history in November 2023 as the first Black woman CEO of a green bank in the U.S. Michigan Saves, under her leadership, offers financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, helping everyday folks save money and go green. Scott Contreras emphasizes the importance of green banks in driving the transition to clean energy, especially for the Black community. “Green banks are vital for driving the transition to clean energy, providing essential financing and incentives to make renewable energy and energy efficiency projects accessible to all. For the Black community, the impact of green banks is particularly significant. Green banks help to address historical inequities by ensuring that Black families and businesses have access to affordable clean energy solutions. By funding projects that directly benefit marginalized communities, we help to rectify the disproportionate environmental burdens these communities have faced for too long. Michigan Saves is committed to ensuring that the transition to a clean energy future is inclusive and equitable, providing tangible benefits to the Black community and beyond. Her work in Detroit and across Michigan demonstrates that green banks are not just financial institutions; they are catalysts for positive change, creating healthier, more resilient communities for all,” she stated.

Scott Contreras’s leadership is breaking barriers and ensuring that the benefits of clean energy reach everyone, not just the wealthy. “After realizing a significant number of our applications from homeowners in Detroit were being denied due to low credit scores, we developed the Access Energy Loan, previously the Detroit Loan Fund, in partnership with TRUE Community Credit Union. The program was designed to provide alternative underwriting for Detroiters, creating accessible financing where it did not previously exist. The pilot program enabled 114 projects that may not have happened otherwise. The success of the program has positioned Michigan Saves to expand the Access Energy Loan across the state, which will launch early 2025,” she explained.

The acknowledgment of climate change in the Black community is crucial. “Michigan Saves is dedicated to raising awareness about climate change and its impacts, while providing the resources and support needed to help marginalized communities thrive in the face of these challenges. Climate change is not just about environmental stewardship; it is about justice, equity, and ensuring a healthy, prosperous future for all,” Scott Contreras emphasized. Detroit’s aging infrastructure requires significant upgrades to support modern, clean energy technologies. Scott Contreras highlighted, “Our aging infrastructure requires significant upgrades to support modern clean energy technologies. Many of the homes, buildings, and energy systems are outdated, leading to inefficiencies and higher energy costs. Upgrading infrastructure is crucial to improve energy efficiency across the city and to enable the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources. Ensuring energy equity is a critical concern. All residents, especially those in low-income and Black communities, must have access to affordable clean energy solutions.”

These leaders are not just addressing environmental issues; they’re building a movement that empowers and uplifts. Their efforts show that the fight for environmental justice is about more than policy—it’s about people. It’s about ensuring our communities have clean air to breathe, reliable energy, and opportunities to thrive.

“I envision a future where environmental equity in Detroit means everyone, regardless of their race or background, has access to clean air, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure. Our work with EV charging stations and clean energy projects is crucial in achieving this vision. By promoting the use of electric vehicles and investing in clean energy, we help reduce pollution and create healthier neighborhoods. This is especially important for the Black community, which has historically been disproportionately affected by environmental issues. Our efforts aim to ensure that the benefits of clean energy and sustainable practices are accessible to all, ensuring a more equitable and just future for Detroit,” Neely concluded.

“As a Detroit resident and business owner, I see the pressing concerns for Detroit’s clean energy and climate change progress as ensuring the safety of outdoor workers from extreme heat and securing resilient, low-cost power sources. Addressing these issues will be vital for the city’s sustainability and the well-being of its residents. I am confident that we have the creative solutions right here, and I look forward to a future where Detroit is a leader in climate solutions that work for all,” Riley added.

These leaders are not just addressing environmental issues; they’re building a movement that empowers and uplifts. Their stories inspire resilience, innovation, and a shared vision for a healthier, more equitable Detroit.

This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Fellowship Lab. The Lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBCUniversal.