Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE: AGR), a leading sustainable energy company and part of the Iberdrola Group, hosted Connecticut’s first Hispanic Energy Roundtable, uniting over 15 Hispanic leaders to address energy-related challenges and opportunities. The event was moderated by Julio Fuentes, Chair of the National Hispanic Energy Council (NHEC) and Founder of the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, with keynote remarks by Avangrid CEO Pedro Azagra.
Azagra announced Avangrid’s new memberships in the NHEC and the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL). As part of this commitment, Avangrid will contribute $100,000 to these organizations and hold the Hispanic Energy Roundtable annually. Additionally, Azagra will join the Board of Trustees for the NHEC, furthering the company’s mission to address energy challenges faced by Hispanic communities nationwide.
“As a member of the Iberdrola Group, with roots in Spain and operations in Mexico and Brazil, Avangrid is deeply committed to supporting Hispanic and Latino communities across the U.S.,” said Azagra. “This Roundtable highlights our dedication to fostering collaboration and developing solutions to energy challenges. By partnering with organizations like the NHEC and NHCSL, we aim to serve as a resource for navigating energy issues and advancing equity in the energy transition.”
The forum brought together state legislators, municipal officials, nonprofit advocates, and Hispanic leaders, including Moses Rams, president of UI’s Utility Workers Union of America Local 470-1. This pioneering effort aims to amplify Hispanic participation in energy discussions at local, regional, and national levels.
Key Partnerships
- National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL): Representing over 450 Hispanic legislators from 37 states and territories, NHCSL advocates on key issues, including energy and environmental policies. As a Full Business Member, Avangrid will contribute $50,000 annually, engage in NHCSL’s events, and collaborate on policy initiatives.
- National Hispanic Energy Council (NHEC): Dedicated to reducing energy burdens on Hispanic households, NHEC focuses on affordability, accessibility, and infrastructure development. By joining the Board of Trustees, Azagra will play a pivotal role in shaping policy priorities and sustaining the organization’s mission.
“NHEC is excited to welcome Avangrid and CEO Pedro Azagra to our Board,” said Julio Fuentes. “Hispanic households face disproportionately high energy costs, paying 20% more than the U.S. average. With partners like Avangrid, we can advocate for policies that lower energy burdens and support the entrepreneurial drive of a community contributing $3.2 trillion to America’s GDP.”
This milestone event underscores Avangrid’s commitment to driving equitable energy solutions and fostering meaningful dialogue with Hispanic communities, advancing shared goals of sustainability and inclusivity.
