Chambers, Businesses, and Utilities Meet to Discuss AZ’s Increasing Corporate Demand for Clean Energy

On February 21, the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce and Arizona Forward co-hosted a lively discussion on the growing demand for clean energy in Arizona, featuring representatives of the private sector and utilities.  Why did this topic generate much interest?  Organizations in Arizona are setting renewable energy and carbon reduction goals and developing strategies to reach them. This is financially-driven and emissions-driven and is attracting significant capital investment and job creation opportunities for the state. However, along with the economic benefits, the growth also poses supply chain and skill shortage challenges for Arizona.  Energy expert panelists included: Trevor Ledbetter, director, Office of Sustainability, University of Arizona Jonathan Simkins, vice president, Planning & Administration Global Real Estate & Workplace Experience, American Express Todd Brady, chief sustainability officer, Intel Corporation Todd Komaromy, director of resource planning, Arizona Public Service Grant Smedley, director of resource planning, Acquisition & Development, Salt River Project The panel was moderated by Ryan Evans, executive director at Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy. What were the key outcomes from discussion? A range of stakeholders are pushing organizations to reduce emissions and embrace renewables - from customers to shareholders to employees to investors.   Clean energy includes varied technologies - solar is particularly advantageous in sunny Arizona, but increasingly wind and other clean energies are in the mix, especially a wide range of energy storage technologies. Clean energy technologies are also innovating at an exceptional pace. Clean energy is price competitive and cheaper than traditional fuels for new generation.  Clean energy presents an opportunity to lock in energy prices for corporations and individuals which can limit their exposure to the volatility of natural gas and other energy sources. The advancement of clean energy is global in scope and to be competitive internationally, US-based organizations must track, measure and report on their progress through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reports.   Check out the full webinar.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Anne Feldhusen.

Convening Clean Energy Conversations at the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce

Buckeye, Arizona is distinct in many ways - It is the largest city in AZ by land mass and 7th fastest growing city in the US. Located 35 miles west of Phoenix with a population of 111K, it is in the middle of what some have nicknamed the ‘Electric Valley’ and others the ‘Sustainable Valley’.   The Buckeye Valley Chamber, led by CEO Deanna Kupcik, is keenly aware of the jobs and economic opportunity in the clean energy economy. With Mesquite Solar on its board and Mesquite’s 400MW solar facility nearby, and members APS and SRP having set ambitious goals to transition to renewable energy, the Chamber actively supports member companies working in clean energy. A recent addition to the solar landscape is NextEra’s 260 MW Sonoran Solar project. According to Buckeye Mayor, Eric Orsborn “The Sonoran Solar project is more than solar panels and batteries - it represents another significant capital investment in the City of Buckeye, the West Valley and the state of Arizona. It’s another example of Buckeye’s commitment to sustainable and renewable energy production.”  Kore Power, a large and growing clean energy company, recently selected Buckeye for its manufacturing site (KorePlex). The company purchased 214 acres in Buckeye for its two million square foot facility - where it will help build a reliable battery supply critical to the future of electric vehicles, solar, and power grids. The facility will be powered by on-site solar and storage.  With such a large facility coming to Buckeye, it was no surprise to the Chamber that local businesses and residents had much interest and many questions. The Chamber used its Quarterly Breakfast event to host Kore for a discussion and had record turnout of almost 100 attendees. Kupcik, said the meetings offered an opportunity for the community to get answers to questions about the project. “There is a lot of buzz about the KOREPlex, and having the opportunity to get the latest news, to learn about KORE Power and get questions answered really opens up opportunities to turn that buzz into partnerships.” And business partnerships are what Chambers are all about.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Anne Feldhusen.

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AZ Op-Ed: Corporate Sector Can Lead the Way in Securing Arizona's Clean Energy Future

This opinion piece was co-authored by Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council and SciTech Institute and Robin S. Reed, president and CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona and co-founder and principal of EmFluent, LLC. This editorial was published by the Phoenix Business Journal on July 29, 2022, and later shared on Arizona Tech Council's blog on August 4, 2022.

For several years, the corporate sector — with technology companies often leading the way — has set carbon emission goals and developed strategies to attain these. Most recently, this has moved from a differentiator to “the price of entry.” With increased public concern about climate change and Moody's Analytics already providing tools to assess a company’s climate risk, the business community’s attention to lowering emissions is intensifying even further.  As examples, here are just a few of the pledges that Arizona Technology Council member companies have made: American Express has a goal of net-zero emissions by 2035 in alignment with the Science Based Targets initiative. Intel commits to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions in its global operations by 2040.  Lyft announced their commitment to reach 100% electric vehicles (EVs) used on the Lyft platform by 2030 since transportation currently accounts for the largest portion of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is targeting net-zero greenhouse gas emissions for the Aviation Department electricity use by 2030 through renewable energy projects, energy efficiency upgrades and utility partnerships. Since 2014, corporate procurement has represented 37% of the carbon-free energy added to the U.S. grid and nearly every year companies have increased their renewable energy purchasing over the previous year. As corporate demand for renewable energy intensifies, Arizona needs to respond so we continue making our state business friendly. But what does this mean in terms of actions we can take?  Attracting more investment dollars – The states with the most ambitious clean-energy goals attract the most investment dollars and, therefore, tax dollars to their states. According to Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy’s Arizona Clean Energy Jobs and Economic Impact Report, Arizona has secured $15 billion in clean investments. But as a top-rated state for solar generation potential, we need to push for more investments by first developing policies that allow expanded utility-scale development, expand corporate procurement options and capture the value that rooftop solar can bring to the grid. Why should Vermont or Utah, generally more snowy climates, generate a higher percentage of electricity from solar than Arizona? Working directly with our utilities and regulators – Independent of the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC), major energy providers have set carbon reduction and renewable generation goals. Tucson Electric Power plans to have 70% renewable power by 2035; Arizona Public Service (APS) expects to provide 100% clean, carbon-free electricity to customers by 2050; and Salt River Project (SRP) targets cutting carbon intensity 90% by 2050. Let’s promote and support these efforts and encourage the ACC to set consistent and ambitious goals. Supporting our transition to electric vehicles – As the world and Arizona convert to EVs, we need to be ready to power these cars with clean and renewable electricity and support the significant and expanding EV industry in our state. Arizona is home to Lucid Motors, Nikola Motor, ElectraMeccanica, Zero Electric Vehicles, Atlis Motor Vehicles and more. These companies have also attracted an impressive supply chain industry that includes lithium-ion battery company KORE Power, battery recycling company Li-Cycle and parts manufacturer UACJ Automotive Whitehall Industries. Not only are these manufacturers requiring more renewables to power their manufacturing, but consumers want renewables to power their cars.  Centering the expansion of clean energy in equity – There is a long history of reinforcing patterns of inequality, particularly on the basis of race. From building highways through the heart of urban neighborhoods to redlining that created segregated communities, past public policy decisions have led to disparities that negatively impact quality of life in terms of education, economic stability and availability of transportation. The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, an initiative that provides background, guidance and funding to help the U.S. reach its goal of 500,000 EV chargers nationwide by 2030, provides a massive national opportunity to build a national EV charging network that can create a different future. A future that emphasizes process equity through intentional inclusion of historically underserved communities, and a path forward that elevates and benefits communities in every part of town. Taking these steps will not only benefit our climate but Arizona’s vibrant economic growth and stability in the long term.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Anne Feldhusen.

Tucson Metro Chamber - Providing Leadership to the Growing Clean Energy Sector

With 56k clean energy jobs (and growing) and $15B in capital investment, there is tremendous business opportunity in Arizona’s clean energy sector. Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) recently published a report titled 'Arizona Clean Energy Jobs and Economic Impact' with even more details on this rapid growth. The Tucson Metro Chamber is a great example of a local chamber leveraging the area's historical business strengths while capitalizing on growth in new sectors. Capturing solar energy The Tucson Chamber membership includes many solar companies such as Solon, Saguaro, Solgen, Sunpro, and The Solar Store - to name just a few. So when software company Accela asked Michael Guymon, Tucson Chamber CEO, to join the steering committee for a new solar app, Michael was pleased to have the opportunity to support this important sector. According to Utility Drive, Accela’s recently released SolarAPP+ allows solar installers to complete permit applications online, reducing approval wait times from weeks to hours. Tucson residents are by far the most active users in Accela’s pilot program. According to Guymon, “Not only is this a great tool for residents, but it is being expanded to support commercial businesses as well”.   Rapid deployment of EVs and EV Chargers  With the rapid growth of EV sales and Arizona a major hub for EV manufacturing, the Tucson Metro Chamber is working with the City of Tucson to craft policies supporting EV drivers. The City of Tucson requires new residential construction be wired with the infrastructure needed for EV charging stations and is looking at a similar policy for new commercial construction. According to Michael Guymon, “As the City moves their discussions to the commercial sector, we want to make sure any ordinances or code amendments recognize the changes we anticipate in the EV marketplace. On top of this, we absolutely want to get as much of the federal funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for EV deployment as possible”.  The supply chain needed to support EVs and clean energy presents equally valuable opportunities. SunCorridor, Inc, southern Arizona’s economic development organization and partner to the Chamber, is leveraging the strength of existing businesses to recruit more jobs to the area. Copper mining is a major industry for Arizona with sixty percent of the nation’s copper coming from southern Arizona. Much copper is needed to support growth in electric vehicles (EVs) over the next decade. According to Guymon, “not only do the clean energy and mining sectors overlap, but also the tech sector. Five years ago, the Chamber, Sun Corridor, The Arizona Commerce Authority and several government partners recruited Caterpillar’s Surface Mining and Technology Division to Tucson thanks to our region’s strength in mining technology.”  Workforce Development Chambers are keenly aware that attracting and retaining businesses requires a highly skilled workforce. The Tucson Chamber works with University of Arizona's Science & Technology Park innovation hubs to bring industry and research together to advance technology. The Park’s Solar Zone is one of the largest multi-technology solar testing and evaluation sites in the United States.  The Tucson Metro Chamber is in the unique position to integrate its long-standing businesses, clean energy startups, educational institutions, and skilled workforce in a way that brings much success to the Tucson economy.

If you would like to learn more about navigating clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Anne Feldhusen.

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Arizona: Home to the New Electric Valley, Attracting New Jobs and Investments

While other states in the U.S. may produce more vehicles in total, Arizona is attracting the startup electric vehicle (EV) sector, bringing thousands of additional jobs and billions of capital investment to the state, having some nickname the area the “Electric Valley”. Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) and Arizona Forward co-hosted a discussion on February 1, on Arizona’s “Electric Valley”, with engaging speakers, including: experts from local chambers and economic development organizations. It also included the executives from three top EV companies - Lucid, Nikola, and Electra Meccanica.  Britta Gross, Managing Director, Carbon Free Mobility, Rocky Mountain Institute & Orlando Public Utility Commissioner Marisa Walker, Sr. V.P., Arizona Commerce Authority & Executive Director, Institute of Automated Mobility Renee Louzon-Benn, Executive Director, Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce James Smith, Economic and Workforce Development Director, Pinal County Mike Boike, Senior Director of Manufacturing, Lucid Motors Elizabeth Fretheim, Global Head of Sustainability and Social Responsibility, Nikola Julie Ibara, Plant Manager, Electra Meccanica Jon Ford, Moderator, Community Development Regional Manager, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco The panelists exemplified the Arizona teamwork and coordinated approach that has put the state in a leading position to attract more advanced manufacturing and skilled jobs. With fierce competition from other regions in the U.S., the goal was to address the questions: how does Arizona maintain and grow its attractiveness to EV manufacturers, and what does being a leader in the EV (and associated supply chain) manufacturing mean for Arizona in terms of tax revenue, investment, clean jobs, and clean air? Renee Louzon-Benn, executive director of the Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce, spoke about the great relationship between Lucid’s expanding manufacturing site, the city, and county. She spoke of the success of Casa Grande and the county in developing the needed skills and workforce. “I think what was really key is knowing that Lucid was going to need a skilled workforce. The state of Arizona, Pinal County, the City of Casa Grande and Central Arizona College partnered to develop Drive 48, a state of the art advanced manufacturing training center.” She went on to add “Lucid is attracting 20 somethings to live and work in Casa Grande.” James Smith, economic development and workforce director for Pinal County, punctuated many of Renee’s points. “Silicon Valley likes Arizona because it's so close. The technology can be developed in Silicon Valley and manufactured and implemented here in Arizona. We would never be able to manufacture the internal combustion engine, because so many of those suppliers are in the upper midwest, but when you remove some of those pieces and parts and it’s much more about technology it really lends itself to Arizona having that supply chain here and being able to manufacture here.” “Not only do we have that positive business environment, but I also think we are training a whole generation of workers for this industry going forward. The underlying factors for success are off the charts,” said Smith.  Following the webinar, the Federal Department of Transportation announced funding for EV charging in Arizona; dollars allocated to the state as a result of the bipartisan infrastructure bill. “Arizona stands to get up to $76.5 million over the next five years to develop electric vehicle charging stations along interstate corridors, in hopes of increasing EV ownership by reducing range anxiety for drivers”, according to AZ Cronkite News.   Watch the full recorded session here  Check out our Arizona Clean Energy Jobs and Economic Impact Report

If your chamber would like to learn more about navigating clean energy opportunities in your community, contact Anne Feldhusen for more information.

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The Clean Energy Economy Bodes Well for Arizona Jobs and Economic Growth

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) and Arizona Forward hosted a virtual briefing on October 5 to discuss the opportunities associated with Arizona investing in a clean energy economy, the bipartisan infrastructure bill, and other federal policies that could positively impact the state.    Representative Greg Stanton (D-AZ) opened the session, with more than 200 attendees, by providing an overview of the proposed infrastructure bills in Congress and the effects climate change is playing on our economy and quality of life, saying “Arizona, and our entire nation needs to invest in infrastructure.” He discussed the vital investment in electric vehicles and renewable energy that will stimulate the economy with new, high paying jobs and local tax revenues and keep the state on track for a clean energy future, continuing on to say, “Everyone at every level everywhere needs to work together.”   Representative Stanton was joined by: Todd Brady, Director of Global Public Affairs and Sustainability, Intel Corporation J. Drake Hamilton, Senior Director of Science Policy, Fresh Energy Elgie Holstein, Senior Director for Strategic Planning, Environmental Defense Fund Ryan Evans, Executive Director, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy   Todd Brady of Intel, highlighted the opportunity for economic growth and job creation via the corporate sector, not only from investments within their own firms but from their respective supply chains, saying, “What I'm hearing from my peers at other companies and what we're hearing from our customers, is not only requesting, but requiring their suppliers to move to 100% renewable energy - what better way to make Arizona even more attractive for business." With many major companies such as GM, Amazon, and Microsoft pledging to be 100% renewable in the near future, Arizona, with a good economic development plan and state policies associated with clean energy, will be an attractive location for new investors, businesses, and revenue.   Ryan Evans with CICE talked about the investment in clean energy and the payoff in return. “Let’s be clear that moving to a clean energy economy costs money. Investments will need to be made but because of the economics of renewable energy and [energy] storage, those investments have a clear and significant ROI,” says Evans. “We’ve seen it in other states and we’ve seen it in Arizona. Not only by investing in a clean energy economy, can you procure more clean energy, but you will develop jobs and tax dollars for your state and local communities.”    Attendees were asked to voice support with the Arizona Federal Delegation for investments in infrastructure and in particular investments that address climate change and promote clean energy jobs through calls, letters, and further outreach to their local policymakers; sharing the message that Arizona is open for business.    Watch the full discussion here.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Anne Feldhusen.

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Chambers, Businesses, and City Leaders Prioritize Arizona’s Needs for Federal Infrastructure Investment

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy, in partnership with Arizona Forward and the City of Tempe Office of Sustainability, led a three part series of workshops in June with Arizona business and community leaders. The workshops provided a forum for candid and detailed discussions with congressional staff about the priorities for Arizona regarding infrastructure needs, especially as they relate to clean energy and sustainability investments.  Congressional staff of Senators Sinema and Kelly, and Representatives Stanton and O’Halleran joined city and chamber leaders from Tempe, Phoenix, Sedona, Tucson, and Casa Grande. Each chamber executive involved articulated the needs and vision for their business communities they represent and worked with their colleagues to prepare a concise set of recommendations for infrastructure investment which included prioritizing investments in electrified transportation, clean and resilient energy and water, care for public lands, and increased job creation opportunities.These recommendations and priorities were summarized in a letter that was subsequently submitted to the congressional offices.     Arizona chambers, via these workshops and many other examples, continue to demonstrate leadership in support of robust infrastructure policy by working side by side with industry leaders and elected officials to build a thriving, resilient business environment for all Arizonans.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Anne Feldhusen.

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