Strengthening Energy Equity Through Strategic Program Enhancement
How Google Nest and community partners are transforming clean energy access in underserved communities through optimized impact programming
The Assignment
Google Nest launched Nest Renew in the U.S. to help users accelerate residential energy decarbonization, including shifting energy usage to cleaner times of day. The Energy Impact Program (EIP) supports communities disproportionately affected by climate change and systemic injustice by directing funds to nonprofits through customers’ “Leafs,” earned via Nest Renew features.
Google Nest engaged Platypus Advisors and the Tides Foundation to review and validate the EIP, then provide strategic recommendations and a roadmap to optimize and strengthen the program.
The Context
The EIP sits at the intersection of clean energy, environmental justice, and equitable access. As climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, the challenge was to ensure that Nest Renew’s Energy Impact Program not only funded impactful nonprofits but also aligned with principles of just transition and community equity. Google Nest sought to maximize the effectiveness of its funding, partnerships, and program design while scaling clean energy adoption nationwide.
Image Credit: Google Nest
Our Role & Process
Phase 1: Assessment & Validation
Reviewed EIP design, pillars, funding structure, and nonprofit partners
Mapped stakeholders and researched trends in environmental justice, clean energy, and just transition
Conducted interviews with internal and external stakeholders
Produced SWOT analysis and validated the program concept
Phase 2: Recommendations & Roadmap
Developed recommendations for funding models, program pillars, and partner selection
Supported nonprofit partner engagement and strengthened cross-sector relationships
Structured recommendations into a one-year roadmap for program evolution
Phase 3: Pilot Impact & Communications
Designed pilot impact evaluation and Year 1 impact report
Created communications templates and promotional materials
Optimized program strategy with Google Nest and supported ongoing partner engagement
The Outcome
Google Nest strengthened its Energy Impact Program, driving clean energy adoption nationwide while centering equity and community. A key example is the partnership with nonprofit Elevate, which replaced fossil fuel systems with clean energy technologies in a 44-unit affordable housing complex in Chicago—providing air conditioning for the first time and eliminating gas bills for residents.
Image Credit: Google Nest
The Impact
Effecting Real-World Change: EIP enabled nonprofits to implement equity-centered clean energy solutions in vulnerable communities
Communications & Awareness: Google Nest produced a video promoting the EIP and additional videos highlighting Nest Renew’s impact
Strategic Model: Created a repeatable roadmap aligning funding, partnerships, and program strategy with just transition and community engagement principles