Lightsource bp achieves SEIA bronze certification for advancements on DEIJ issues

Lightsource bp has achieved bronze certification through the Diversity Equity Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Certification Program from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Earning this certification demonstrates Lightsource bp’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace and culture in the solar industry.  

“At Lightsource bp, DEIJ principles guide how we build our teams, cultivate inclusive leadership, and create diversity in the workplace — where our people are comfortable bringing their authentic whole selves to work,” said Kevin Smith, CEO of the Americas for Lightsource bp. “It is crucial that our entire team receives ongoing education, participates in open discussions surrounding DEIJ topics, and leverages tools like the SEIA certification program in order to continually improve and advance our progress in this area.”    

The online program was designed by Diversity Certified Professionals and uses evidence-based approaches to improve diversity practices within companies. The program guides participants through a broad range of modules on diversity topics, requiring them to complete activities that help create a more inclusive work environment, serve the communities they work in, and attract, hire, promote, and retain diverse talent. Companies earn levels of certification by completing each series of modules.  

The program is designed to help energy businesses make progress from wherever they are on their DEIJ journey, and encourages participation from companies of all sizes, regardless of their budget or resources. 

“Working toward this certification has helped us evaluate our policies and processes to ensure we’re effectively achieving our commitments, driving our DEIJ commitments and creating  accountability,” said Aaron Chavez, Lightsource bp’s HR Business Partner for the Americas. 

The SEIA program prompted Lightsource bp leadership to assess existing policies and commitments, in addition to making new ones. For example, the company will expand internal demographic data collection to better assess the effectiveness of DEIJ policies in action and inform industry-wide efforts to measure diversity in the solar workforce. Additionally, Lightsource bp submitted an updated family leave policy, which increases paid time off for new and bereaved parents, as a commitment under the program.  

Lightsource bp intends to continue working towards silver and gold certification through the SEIA program. 

Learn more about the program at learn.seia.org.