State Affairs Summer Intern 2026

Job Description

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is the national trade association for the solar and storage industry and represents more than 1,200 member companies and 263,000 Americans working across the United States. SEIA is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy and is creating the framework for solar to reach 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. We work with our member companies and strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power.

SEIA does this by supporting pro-solar policies at the state and federal levels, developing cutting-edge market research, hosting educational events and webinars, and serving as the voice of the solar and storage industry.

SEIA employees are passionate, forward-thinking leaders who start every day knowing that their work makes a difference. SEIA values diversity and fosters an inclusive, lively company culture that celebrates team success. The association has earned numerous awards for its work and company culture and was named by the Washington Post as a 2023 and 2024 Top Workplace and a Best Nonprofit to Work For by the Nonprofit Times.

Internship Description

SEIA is looking for a state and regulatory affairs intern to work with our regulatory and state affairs departments. The ideal candidate will be available 20-25 hours per week, demonstrate an interest in energy and environmental policy, and possess strong writing skills. Candidates should also have an understanding of the legislative and regulatory process, keep up with current events in clean energy, and have the ability to multitask in a fast‐paced environment. Computer literacy (online research, familiarity with Word, Excel, etc.) is expected.

Interns at SEIA will have the opportunity to be a part of a fast-paced high-energy state and regulatory affairs team and get an insider look at federal and state advocacy efforts on behalf of the solar and storage industries. Interns will gain expertise in state and regional markets, monitor industry trends, and track and analyze legislative and regulatory developments around the country that impact solar and storage deployment. Those with a legal background can be expected to assist on regulatory filings and proceedings.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to

• Legislative, regulatory, economic, and policy research
• State, Federal & Executive Government relations
• Community and grassroots organizing
• Coalition‐building
• Member communication

Requirements

• Problem-solving
• Organization
• Flexibility
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite

Compensation

This position pays $19/hour. The internship will start in the middle of June through the beginning of August. For our internship Frequently Asked Questions, click here.

Working Conditions

• This position is 20 hours/week
• This internship is based in the Washington, DC office
• Interns MUST be in the office on designated team days (3 days a week) and specifically on Wednesdays for cohort touch base.

Working at SEIA

SEIA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, homelessness, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. SEIA complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we employ staff. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

SEIA is an EVERIFY employer.