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.

2022 North Carolina Clean Energy Champions Announced Amidst Impressive Year for Clean Energy Development in NC

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy, alongside co-host Conservatives for Clean Energy hosted the 8th annual North Carolina Clean Energy Champions event in Greensboro, North Carolina; a hub for recent clean energy investments and developments. The event is a time where chamber and economic development leaders, as well as legislators and businesses are awarded for their leadership in advancing the clean energy economy in NC.  “Their advocacy, investments, and policy development have turned North Carolina into a clean energy economic powerhouse and a national hub for clean energy innovation and manufacturing,” Ryan Evans, executive director, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy. North Carolina has been no stranger to the economic impacts clean energy can have on communities across the state. Whether it be offshore wind, solar, or electric vehicle and battery manufacturing. The state continues to benefit from the growing industry and can continue to forge a path for a clean energy future.  2022 Clean Energy Champion award winners: U.S. Rep. David Rouzer (R-7th District) For working consistently in a bipartisan way with Republican and Democratic colleagues in Congress to repeal a 10-year moratorium on offshore wind projects and to promote other clean energy initiatives. State Rep. Ed Goodwin (R-Chowan) For sponsoring legislation that would direct the N.C. Utilities Commission to study reforms to deliver far greater market competition, customer choice, and ratepayer savings to North Carolinians than the current monopoly-controlled structure allows. Goodwin also has supported solar projects and a wind farm in his district, where they produce much-needed property tax revenue. State Rep. Harry Warren (R-Rowan) For sponsoring important legislation expanding solar panel freedom in homeowner association neighborhoods and promoting electric vehicles. State Sen. Michael Lazzara (R-Onslow) For sponsoring legislation to allow commercial property-assessed clean energy, a financing method that allows borrowed capital to pay the upfront costs associated with energy efficiency or renewable energy improvements, repaid over time via a voluntary tax assessment. Greensboro Chamber of Commerce For playing a central role while working with the Governor’s Office, state lawmakers, local government, utilities, colleges, and many other partners to create an extensive siting and incentive package development that attracted Toyota Motor Corp. of America to the Greensboro-Randolph megasite, Toyota plans to invest more than $3.8 billion to build its first electric vehicle and hybrid battery facility, creating up to 2,100 jobs. Carteret County Economic Development Department For demonstrating dynamic leadership in one of the most exciting clean energy opportunities for the state: offshore wind. Carteret County and North Carolina are well-positioned to welcome billions of dollars in investment and thousands of jobs in the offshore wind industry. New Belgium Brewing For generating solar power at its Asheville brewery, for committing to carbon-neutrality by 2030, and for supporting robust state clean energy policies, including more electric vehicles and charging stations. Siemens For promoting clean energy policies, for its strong clean energy goals, and for employing thousands of North Carolinians in technology jobs. Clean Energy Rising Star award winner: Rep. Matthew Winslow (R-Wake) Rep. Winslow, a homebuilder and former economic developer who was just elected to a second term in the N.C. House, for creating resilient neighborhoods that feature a micro-grid and homes that are pre-wired for rooftop solar panels and electric vehicle charging in their garages. Lifetime Achievement award winner: U.S. Sen. Richard Burr (R) For his almost three decades of public service in Congress, including his having played a vital role in developing last year’s Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, a much-needed, bipartisan federal law. “I hope our award winners’ success stories will inspire all of you,” Fleming, the CEO of Conservatives for Clean Energy, said in concluding the event. “Who knows –you might be one of our 2023 Clean Energy Champions!”

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

FACP Panel Discussion: Are Clean Energy Companies Members of Your Chamber?

The number of clean energy companies is growing and will accelerate in 2023 with new federal funding - are these companies members of your chamber?

Too often, chambers of commerce struggle to engage companies in new industries. This is very true, we’ve found, for chambers when it comes to the explosion of new clean energy companies. But some chambers have developed unique and compelling ways to bring such companies into their membership to help them grow and reach their business goals. Whether these are start-ups, mature clean energy companies, or companies developing new innovations in clean energy, chambers are finding success in recruiting and retaining them throughout Florida (and the country).   At the recent statewide Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) hosted a panel of chamber and business executives to talk about their initiatives with clean energy companies.  The panelists included: Rebekah Arthur, IOM, president & CEO, Seminole County Chamber Jacki Dezelski, IOM, president & CEO, Manatee Chamber of Commerce Dan Lindblade, CAE, president & CEO, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Barbara Gritter, executive vice president, Solcium Solar

Electric Vehicle Industry Panel The panel came about after the Seminole County Chamber partnered with CICE on a panel discussion about the electric vehicle industry. Because of that event, the Seminole Chamber brought in some key members in the industry. Solcium Solar, for example, is a newer member of the Seminole County Chamber. “We can engage with other like-minded companies because the chamber convenes conversations around topics like ours,” Gritter says.  It’s also a way to help educate the public about their industry.  Gritter adds: “It’s not lost on us how many misconceptions there are about solar and it’s unfortunate that clean energy is politicized - given the economic opportunity”.

Clean Energy & Resilience Pitch Contest In Fort Lauderdale, Lindblade has been at the forefront of embracing clean energy and other technologies that will help South Florida become more resilient. In fact, he left immediately after the discussion to attend the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Leadership Summit.  One of his key efforts in this realm is a pitch contest for companies in this field. “You can monetize an event on renewable energy,” he said. “Clean energy companies will sponsor events like this and members will pay to attend them.”

Natural Resources Committee At the Manatee County Chamber, the chamber started a Natural Resources Committee several years ago that addresses the interests of many clean energy companies. One thing they do is take tours to facilities connected to clean energy businesses and that affect the natural resources of the community.

Supply Chain to Clean Energy Of course, Dezelski adds that chambers should be paying attention to not only clean energy companies themselves, but also to the companies providing support to the companies.  “It’s one more opportunity to support small businesses, and in many cases, they benefit from the same chamber deliverables as many small businesses,” she added.  Finding clean energy companies is not always easy. They are often working to develop the next great technology or finding the right location for their facility. They often don’t seek public attention. That’s why Arthur said it will take work but look at local incubators for potential new companies that will become major companies in your community. “These are filled with fast growing companies and you want to pay attention,” she said. “It’s up to the chamber to make the connection.”

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

St. Petersburg Recognizes Connection Between Sustainability and Business Success as Winter Park Chamber Offers Keynote Address

On October 25, the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership and the Florida Environmental Defense Fund co-hosted the first Sustainability Leadership Forum and Awards Ceremony.   As one of the most vulnerable cities in America to climate change, St. Petersburg’s business leaders were looking for a way to recognize those organizations in the city leading on sustainability.   At the event, the organizations recognized three companies and heard from Betsy Gardner Eckbert, president/CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce.   “The companies we recognized today are leading our community’s efforts in sustainability and ensuring the future of our city is as great as our present,” says Jason Mathis, CEO, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership. “Having Betsy set the stage, with her community’s connection between sustainability and prosperity was a great lesson for us all to hear.”   The Winter Park Chamber, located outside of Orlando, was recently featured in a “Chambers in Action” story because of its focus on sustainability in its Prosperity Scorecard.   During her keynote address, Gardner Eckbert discussed tri-sector leadership and how Winter Park engaged businesses, local government, and nonprofits in her community to tackle the issue of sustainability and climate change.   “Tri-sector leadership is required for change because change is tough,” Gardner Eckbert says. “You have to engage all of the stakeholders and embed change for it to last. This kind of change must be normalized and embedded and picked up by all the sectors.”   After Gardner Eckbert’s talk, the group recognized three local businesses for Sustainability Leadership, showcasing the positive work being done by community and business leaders throughout Pinellas County.    Businesses of all sizes were eligible and the selection process focused on innovation related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, structural preservation, water conservation, water quality, electric vehicles and more.   “From the level of companies we recognized to the fabulous advice given by Betsy, we are extremely pleased with the results of this inaugural event,” says Dawn Shirreffs, Florida director, Environmental Defense Fund. “These leaders understand that sustainability growth makes economic sense and we hope others will be inspired by their stories to embrace these forward thinking and lucrative practices.”

Award Winners:

Institutional Award Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, operating the region’s transit system with a focus on converting to electric buses. In March 2021, the organization released its first Sustainability Strategic Plan.

Retail Award Brick Street Farms, an urban farming company that has developed containers producing 16 acres to 20 acres of crops on 1/3 of an acre of land.

Developer Award Stoneweg U.S., a multifamily real estate investment company with a goal of reducing its portfolio’s site Energy Use Intensity by 15% by 2025.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Alan Byrd.   Also, if you would like to donate time or money in support of FL’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, you can do so via this link at the Florida State Chamber of Commerce website.

Texas Works Towards a Clean Energy Economy, Helping Communities Across the State, Regardless of Political Opinions on the Industry

Texas, most commonly known for their oil and gas production, has been investing big on clean energy generation, in fact the red state is leading the country in wind energy generation and second only to left leaning California.  San Angelo is a rural Texas community, rich in farmland, some of which has been converted to solar fields and wind turbine developments. Area farmers and landowners are receiving substantial income from leasing their land to renewable energy companies/developers.  The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce has had a hand in recruiting energy companies to develop at least nine solar and wind farms near their small town. “They’re providing a really strong revenue source,” said Michael Looney, head of economic development for the San Angelo Chamber. The San Angelo community seemed open to the new projects, despite clean energy not always being well received in other communities across the country. “They (renewable energy projects) have some political pushback in certain communities that find them to be not a really good fit, but in Tom Green County we found that it was a perfect fit.” In Texas, clean energy can be political and polarizing. In reality, it’s generating new jobs and investments for communities across the state that are projected to do so for decades to come. In fact, red states like Texas, more so than blue states, are projected to see billions of dollars of investment thanks to the clean energy provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act  The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce is a great example of a chamber being the voice of business. Without making it political, clean energy can benefit the entire country with new, high paying jobs, manufacturing opportunities, and billions of dollars in investments. Watch the full story here

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

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.

Massachusetts Chamber Leaders Briefed on Top 2020 Issues: Transportation, Resiliency, and Reliability

CICE’s Annual Policy Briefing on Top 2020 Issues:

Transportation, Resiliency, and Reliability

Last week over 60 Chamber Executives from across Massachusetts participated in CICE’s annual policy briefing hosted by the Greater Boston, Worcester Regional and Cape Cod Chambers of Commerce. The briefing call featured State Senator Marc Pacheco, Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and the Environment Kathleen Theoharides, and Clean Energy Expert and former State Representative Dan Bosley all of whom spoke with local chamber executives and businesses about the state’s clean energy priorities and the potential impacts to local economic development, job creation, transportation and resiliency.

MA State Senator, Marc Pacheco

Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and the Environment, Kathleen Theoharides

Former State Representative, Dan Bosley

Senator Pacheco spoke about the bi-partisan commitment to help the Commonwealth become net zero by 2050, praised the pledge made in the Governor’s State of the State, and addressed the comprehensive climate legislation that passed the Senate in January. Of particular interest, he discussed Department of Public Utilities (DPU) oversight which will focus on utility reliability, affordability, public safety, cyber security, and GHG reductions. Senator Pacheco also talked about increased oversight of Mass Save which is set to prioritize the expansion of programs with the most potential for energy savings, including commercial and industrial. Additionally, the senator touched on new renewable energy pilots, electrification of public transit, appliance standards, and low income solar mentioned in the Senate’s legislation. To learn more about the state Senate’s climate legislation check out WBUR and Boston Globe articles.

Secretary Theoharides spoke about transportation challenges in the Commonwealth, the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI), and the administration’s clean energy priorities. Specifically, she outlined the impact TCI will have on transportation infrastructure and electrification as well as Massachusetts’ commitment to the regional initiative which is expected to reduce emissions and also generate revenue for needed infrastructure updates. Massachusetts aims to be a leader, with Theoharides sharing “We will be updating our targets and plans to incorporate the Governor’s new net zero goal. We not only want to attain the targets but also model best practices and solutions.”

Clean energy expert and former Representative, Dan Bosley, addressed the Greenworks bill that passed the House last year. Greenworks offers $1 billion for cities and towns to use for climate adaptation and recognizes the importance of resiliency. Said Bosley, “Greenworks can help address climate and business impacts, and businesses will face higher costs unless we do something about climate change. The good news is that people are doing something about it, and this resiliency bill, if spent well, could lead to innovation that results in significant economic growth.”

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In addition to the policy experts, the chamber co-hosts shared their respective clean energy priorities:

“We focus a lot on environmental stewardship at home and in businesses. As a chamber, we want to increase clean energy jobs (which we believe is critical to economic development and resiliency); expand our local transportation infrastructure (which will reduce congestion, emissions, and improve our economy); and work with utilities and state agencies to address the challenges faced by our businesses.”

-Tim Murray

Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce

“Offshore wind remains an important issue for us as it puts us at the forefront of this exciting clean energy industry. This year we hosted the Cape’s first EV Car Show, supported a pilot program for large energy storage sites in more remote areas, advocated for improved public transportation, and our board members are asking us to be more engaged in climate action and resiliency.” 

-Wendy Northcross,

Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce

“We think about climate change in four categories: the clean energy industry and growth of jobs; the broader responsibility the business community has for climate readiness; how we adapt and respond knowing there are tradeoffs and costs of implementing tactics for alleviating climate change into our operations; and lastly the connectedness between these and other climate related issues like transportation/congestion and housing.”

-Jim Rooney

Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

Fayetteville Becomes Latest City to Commit to 100 Percent Clean Energy

As corporate demand grows for renewable energy, cities around the country are competing to attract the associated jobs, tax revenue, and additional investment.

Recently, Fayetteville, Arkansas, became the 54th American city—and the first in the state—to commit to 100 percent renewable energy: a move applauded by the local chamber of commerce.

“We know that many businesses—including our largest member, Walmart—want to fully power their operations with clean energy,” “said Steve Clark, President of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. “It’s important that we support them in seizing the economic opportunities in the clean energy transition.”

Other cities that have made the commitment include Atlanta, GA; Columbia, SC; Downingtown, Phoenixville, and West Chester, PA; Georgetown, Texas; Hanover, New Hampshire; Hillsborough, NC; Orlando and Sarasota, FL; Salt Lake City, UT; and St. Louis, MO.

South Lake Tahoe, Nevada, announced their commitment in early 2017—a move that was also applauded by the local chamber.

"The Tahoe Chamber is committed to supporting policies and advocating for programs that promote economic, environmental and community sustainability,” Craig Schmidt, President of the Lake Tahoe South Shore Chamber of Commerce, wrote in an op-ed in the Tahoe Daily Tribune.

Local Chambers Discover Something New about Their Members

“A lot of these businesses are members of my chamber, and I never knew they were big clean energy users. Can I have that list?” 

That was one of the most frequent comments heard during this year’s annual American Chambers of Commerce Executives meeting in Nashville, TN., at the Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) booth.  

“A Who’s Who of Chamber Members: Who Are Top Clean Energy Users” was a surprise hit for many chamber leaders who discovered a wide range of mainstream businesses that have joined the ranks of the nation’s top clean energy users.  

Gone are the days when clean energy was of interest primarily to wind and solar energy companies. Now businesses across almost all sectors are purchasing clean energy, as price declines make clean energy the smart economic choice. 

Among them: Amazon, Avon Products, Best Buy, Campbell’s Soup, Dow Chemical, Ford Motors, General Mills, Home Depot, Smuckers, McDonalds, UPS, and Verizon, to name just a few. See the list here to learn if any of your chamber’s member businesses are among the top clean energy users.  

Reflecting a growing recognition that clean energy is also delivering jobs and investment income to communities large and small, 100 percent of local chambers surveyed also agreed that renewable energy and energy efficiency “make good economic sense and should be supported by good clean energy policies.”  

And check out this video of CICE’s Tom Bullock to learn more about the CICE network.