CHAMBERS IN ACTION

Local chambers across the country are taking the lead in creating and convening clean energy conversations, best practices, events and advocating on local policy.

Chambers for Innovation 6/3/19 Chambers for Innovation 6/3/19

Local Chambers respond to House Speaker DeLeo's Call to be Part of the Solution

STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, APRIL 11, 2019

Responding to the House speaker's call for the business community to involve itself in the debate over the needs of the state's transportation system, two dozen business groups have banded together to promote a statewide agenda for transportation.

The Massachusetts Business Coalition on Transportation (MBCT) said its formation comes as traffic and congestion get worse and riders demand more reliable public transportation service. The group was also formed in response to "the business community's dissatisfaction with the current pace of improvements to our state's transportation systems and services."

The coalition, which includes about two dozen organizations, will be chaired by Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce CEO Jim Rooney, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO Tim Murray, Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce CEO Wendy Northcross and Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council CEO Richard Sullivan.

"Transportation, and particularly public transportation, is a critical component to Greater Boston's, and indeed the state's, talent and workforce strategy, housing crisis strategy, economic opportunity efforts, climate resiliency, and our commitment to improving the overall quality of life for the people who live and work in Massachusetts," Rooney said. "It's time for a united voice from the business community that can be a powerful driver of progress."

Business groups have increasingly decried the Boston area's public transportation woes as a hindrance to business growth. Traffic and congestion on the roads make for long and frustrating commutes by car, and the unpredictable nature of public transportation frequently makes workers late to their jobs.

In February, A Better City released a report detailing a $8.4 billion shortfall in revenues needed to ensure state roads, bridges and MBTA infrastructure are in a state of good repair over the next 10 years.

House Speaker Robert DeLeo has been beating the drum to get chambers of commerce and other business groups more involved in discussions around transportation infrastructure and financing, and has said he is open to tax hikes or just about any other prescription to address the state's critical transit needs.

The MBCT said its work will build off of the work of the Commission on the Future of Transportation launched by Gov. Charlie Baker and that its "conversations around new revenues for transportation initiatives will be coordinated with the efforts of Senate President Karen Spilka's working group charged with examining the state's revenue sources."

Murray, the former Worcester mayor and lieutenant governor, said the MBCT's goal is "to provide pathways including possible funding mechanisms on how to create a state-of-the-art transportation system across Massachusetts."

The group said its members feel a responsibility to engage with government and to help identify possible solutions to transportation issues, "particularly when it comes to issues like public/private partnerships, workforce scheduling and applications of technology as well as sharing expertise on complex issues of financing, governance and management, contracting, and project delivery."

In its announcement, the MBCT said it has already met twice to formulate its mission and to discuss transportation policy as it works to set a more concrete agenda.

By Colin A. Young
STATE HOUSE NEWS SERVICE

https://www.statehousenews.com/email/a/2019643?key=56fb26

Chambers for Innovation 5/9/19 Chambers for Innovation 5/9/19

Metro South Chamber Was an Early Leader in the Electric Vehicle Revolution

Now the City of Brockton is:

Recognized by MA Department of Environmental Protection
Adding its 14th EV to the municipal fleet

We wanted to make sure our community is always part of the innovative wave of the future,. We organized a ride and drive event with our partner to share the excitement of this new technology. Our city council member participated in the ride and drive event,embraced electric vehicles, and the rest is history. The city of Brockton is now adding its 14th electric car to its municipal fleet.

- Chris Cooney, President and CEO of the Metro South Chamber of Commerce

Chris Cooney, President and CEO of the Metro South Chamber of Commerce, embraced Electric Vehicles (EVs) early. He partnered with Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy to introduce EVs to his community and businesses through a ride-and-drive event back in 2015.

Massachusetts DEP Commissioner Martin Suuberg joined Mayor Bill Carpenter at Brockton City Hall last week to celebrate Brockton's leadership. See the Video and News Article

DEP's statewide program provides up to $7,500 per vehicle to purchase or lease plug-in electric vehicles, and up to $7,500 for charging stations. Suuberg said Brockton has received $120,000 in total under the EV Incentive Program (for municipalities).

If you would like to learn more about MA's incentives for EVs and charging stations please contact us at info@chambersforinnovation.com.

See other stories about Local Chambers and Electric Vehicles:

Chamber Executives Line Up to Drive New EVs

Chambers Learn About Rebates for EVs

Local NC Chamber Innovates w EV Charging Stations

Orlando Chamber Drives Toward the Future

Dearborn Chamber Makes Energy Connection Henry Ford Would Appreciate

Chambers for Innovation 4/17/19 Chambers for Innovation 4/17/19

One of the country's top oil, gas and coal producing states embraces renewable energy.

States are not waiting for Washington D.C. to move forward to create the clean energy economy.

States are not waiting for Washington D.C. to move forward to create the clean energy economy. Last month New Mexico became the 3rd state, after Hawaii and California, to pass a bill requiring all electricity from public utilities to come from renewable energy sources. The bill passed both the NM House and Senate, then the Governor signed the bill.

The New Mexico State Association of Commerce and Industry (NMACI) supported the legislation. Rob Black, President and CEO of NMACI understands the economic need to transition the state to renewable energy while also protecting the workers in one of the nation’s major coal plants which is slated to close by 2022.

“The business community worked closely on the bill with legislators, utilities, labor, and local communities to balance the challenges and opportunities for our energy producing state to catalyze economic growth so that New Mexico leads the country in the 21st Century,” said Black. “It is a strategic balancing act for our state and we are heading in the right direction.”

To compensate for the loss of coal revenue, the bill sends $40 million to regions expected to lose coal production while also requiring that significant renewable energy generating capacity be built there.

“Public Utility Company of New Mexico (PNM) is ready to do our part by investing in a renewable energy infrastructure and leading-edge technologies to put New Mexico at the forefront of the inevitable global transition to sustainable energy”, said PNM President Pat Vincent-Collawn.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham advocated for the legislation and signed it on March 22. After the bill passed the House, Gov. Lujan Grisham released the following statement:

“When we were presented the chance to move toward cleaner sources of energy, we took it, boldly charting a course to a carbon-free future, permanently centering our commitment to lower emissions and setting an example for other states. Crucially, this legislation does not leave our neighbors in San Juan County behind, as we will provide millions for trainings and economic development.”

For more information see:

NM Sends 100% Renewable Energy Bill to Governor

New Mexico 100% Renewable Energy

Chambers for Innovation 4/11/19 Chambers for Innovation 4/11/19

Wind Tour with Toledo Blade, Ohio Governor's Office, Local Chamber, County Officials and More

A perfect, windy day to see a turbine up-close at EDP Renewables Timber Roads II in Paulding County.From the top:Jerry Zielke, Paulding County Economic Development Inc. Director;LuAnne Cook, Office of the Governor NW Regional Liaison;Mikayla Pieper,… — A perfect, windy day to see a turbine up-close at EDP Renewables Timber Roads II in Paulding County.
From the top:
Jerry Zielke, Paulding County Economic Development Inc. Director;
LuAnne Cook, Office of the Governor NW Regional Liaison;
Mikayla Pieper, Paulding Chamber of Commerce Executive Director;
Erin Bowser, EDP Renewables;
Susan Munroe, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

How much can clean energy development grow a region's economy? Quite a lot, as a Toledo Blade newspaper reporter and the Ohio Governor's regional representative got to find out in a day-long tour earlier this month by the Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy in partnership with the Paulding Chamber of Commerce, school district superintendents, and economic development officials.

The day-long tour spotlighted a region of Ohio where several wind farms are already constructed and have been operating for several years. It provided a close look at how economic activity from wind power reaches far beyond the boundaries of wind farms into businesses, school districts, local governments, and community philanthropies. The wind farms benefit communities throughout Ohio that are located along the wind supply chain.

One of the most intriguing stops during the tour for Toledo Blade Reporter, Tom Henry, was an up-close look at Vantage's Nacelle Wind Power Generator Simulator.

"One of the highlights of the visit there was an $80,000, micro-sized wind turbine simulator that could help train future operators, or at least whet their appetites for mechanical science and physics," says Henry. The technician training program is right on time - since one of the top new jobs in the county is a wind turbine technician with an average salary of $54.360 according to U.S. Department of Labor Statistics.

Vantage Career Center offers a job training pathway for wind turbine technicians, a top job opportunity in the country with an average salary of $54,360

Another highlight of the tour included a visit to the new $4.5 million community center built by the Lincolnview School District with revenue from wind investments. Lincolnview is receiving $400,000 annually for 20 years from wind revenue. Superintendent Jeff Snyder noted that these steady payments allow the school district to plan for the long-term and to fund ambitious projects like the community center.

Lincolnview School District Community Center; built with revenue from wind investments.

In between stops, the tour also highlighted businesses receiving spin-off economic activity from wind farm construction and maintenance--including a hotel, cement plan, auto dealership, trucking company, and more.

See the Toledo Blade story and video here.

Chambers for Innovation 3/21/19 Chambers for Innovation 3/21/19

Paulding Chamber of Commerce Says It's Time For Ohio To Lead On Clean Energy

After Ohio's new governor proposed his first budget, a leading newspaper, the Columbus Dispatch, evaluated it against economic and quality of life measures.

After Ohio's new governor proposed his first budget, a leading newspaper, the Columbus Dispatch, evaluated it against economic and quality of life measures. But according to Mikayla Pieper, the head of the Paulding Local Chamber, "A key measure was missing, clean energy deployment." In a Letter to the Editor, she emphasized that "State policies on clean energy can attract business - or drive it away." She called on state leaders to improve the Buckeye State's economic performance with clean energy deployment.

Read the full text of the Paulding Chamber of Commerce's letter to the editor

Mikayla Pieper, Executive Director of the Paulding Chamber of Commerce

Chambers for Innovation 3/14/19 Chambers for Innovation 3/14/19

Blackstone Valley Chamber Tackles Workforce Skills Gap and Sustainability with Innovative Educational Programming

Located in the historic Linwood Mill, which is geothermal, the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce (BVCC) is definitely walking the walk when it comes to innovation and clean energy.

BVCC was just selected as one of 5 local and state chambers across the country to receive an Economic Development grant from the US Chamber of Commerce. The grant allows the Chamber to implement a work-based learning program to help the local community address the talent gap. BVCC is now creating a Career Readiness Lab in the Chamber's new BV Ed Hub located in the mill which includes renewable energy tech training and a state of the art makers space. The innovative program is set to serve 10 local high school districts with employer led training designed to help fill the skills gap/ needs of the local workforce.

"We are really excited to be the home of the Career Readiness Lab," said President and CEO of the BVCC Jeannie Hebert. "We are so glad to be able to help the students in our communities be prepared for the working world. It is a wonderful opportunity for the Blackstone Valley to develop workforce training programs alongside our manufactures."

Jeannie Hebert, President and CEO of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce

During a recent meeting with Energy and Environment Secretary Matt Beaton, Jeannie Herbert asked how the Baker Administration was thinking about workforce readiness for the Bay State. Secretary Beaton said, "the state had educational programs and public-private partnerships on workforce readiness." He said, "that a partnership with chambers would be welcome."

Jeannie Hebert also stated that local chambers throughout the country are uniquely positioned to help fill the clean energy talent gap and economic development needs of their communities. "We all want our communities to be engaged in the clean economy future. To make this happen, we must make address workforce readiness. I'm happy to share how we do this in our community with all local chambers and economic development professionals."

To learn more about this initiative read here

Chambers for Innovation 3/7/19 Chambers for Innovation 3/7/19

MA Chambers Get High-Powered Briefing from Energy Secretary Matt Beaton and State Senator Marc Pacheco

Lots of information was shared on the recent briefing call with MA policymakers, here's a re-cap:

A large group of Chamber Executives and member companies from across Massachusetts joined our recent briefing call co-hosted by the Greater Boston and Worcester Regional Chambers of Commerce. On the call, Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and Environment Matt Beaton and State Senator Marc Pacheco talked with local chambers and member companies about the Commonwealth's priorities for economic development, clean energy, resilient communities, transportation infrastructure, and workforce readiness.

Sec. Matthew Beaton, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs

Secretary Beaton told local chambers about the Administration's participation in the 9-state regional Transportation and Climate Initiative. He emphasized that "the Commonwealth is proud to partner with Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states to explore a program to protect the health of our residents and build a more resilient and sustainable transportation system for the next generation." To learn more please see Resilient Transportation System

Sen. Marc Pacheco (D-Taunton)

Senator Marc Pacheco unveiled his bi-partisan renewable energy bill An Act to Secure a Clean Energy Future (SD 757). This bi-partisan bill calls for expanding offshore wind; Increasing the growth of renewable energy to 3% per year which will put MA on track for 50% renewable energy by 2030; doubling the state's target for energy storage; more and better rebates for electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charges; and allowing homeowners that have installed solar panels to sell their excess electric power back to the grid (via credits on their bill) without penalty (this is referred to as net-metering). To learn more about SD 757 see Commonwealth Magazine and MA Bills

Resilient Communities - Supported by Governor, Legislators, and Local Chambers

We also learned that there is a lot of support for helping communities become more resilient as they experience more extreme weather events.

We heard about a new proposal by MA House Speaker Robert DeLeo called the GreenWorks Resilient Communities Investment Plan to fund community efforts to install solar grids, electric vehicle charging stations, resiliency infrastructure, and more.

Speaker DeLeo isn't alone in his quest to fund resiliency. Last month Governor Baker unveiled a proposal to raise money for resilient communities. See Gov Baker makes resilient communities a priority

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy will continue to update you on clean energy developments in the Bay State.

If you are interested in becoming more involved in any of the above discussions (offshore wind, EVs, resilient communities, the transportation initiative, storage, net metering, renewable energy, energy efficiency), please contact Diane Doucette at Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy or Tom Bullock. Jess Bergman will be out on maternity leave until July 2019.

Chambers for Innovation 2/21/19 Chambers for Innovation 2/21/19

Leading legislator makes major offshore wind announcement to packed house at Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut offshore wind breakfast

Senator Paul Formica (R-20) chose a packed-house business leader breakfast hosted recently by the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut to make a major announcement on offshore wind development: the Energy and Technology Committee recently agreed to work on legislation to add 2,000 megawatts of offshore wind capacity.

More than 130 joined the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut for a bi-partisan panel on the economic opportunities of offshore wind. Business, industry, political and environmental leaders heard from a high-powered panel of experts, including:

New London Mayor Michael Passero;
Acting Commissioner of the CT Department of Economic and Community Development David Kooris;
Deputy Secretary of State and Chairman of the CT Port Authority Scott Bates;
Republican Senator and Co-Chair of Appropriations and Energy and Technology Committees Paul Formica;
Orsted US Offshore Wind Head of New England Markets Matthew Morrissey;
Vice President of Business Development at Eversource Michael Ausere; and
Senior Policy Advocate for Acadia Center Deborah Donovan.

Pictured (left to right): Tony Sheridan (President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut), Amy McLean Salls (Senior Policy Advocate and Connecticut Director at Acadia Center), Matthew Morrissey (Orsted US Offshore Wind Head of Ne… — Pictured (left to right): Tony Sheridan (President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut), Amy McLean Salls (Senior Policy Advocate and Connecticut Director at Acadia Center), Matthew Morrissey (Orsted US Offshore Wind Head of New England Markets), Jessica Bergman (New England Programs and Engagement Director at Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy), Michael Passero (Mayor of New London), Deborah Donovan (Senior Policy Advocate at Acadia Center), Emily Lewis O'Brien (Senior Policy Analyst at Acadia Center), John Humphries (Organizer at CT Roundtable on Climate and Jobs), Scott Bates (Deputy Secretary of State and Chairman of the CT Port Authority), Paul Formica (Republican Senator and Co-Chair of Appropriations and Energy and Technology Committees), and David Kooris (Acting Commissioner of the CT Department of Economic and Community Development).

Get the full story at the links below!

News Coverage:

A video recording of the event can be seen here:

In addition, The Day ran a news article:

Lawmakers eye 2,000 megawatt Article pic.jpg

Click here for the full story. Excerpts:

"The announcement, made at a Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut breakfast, sparked applause..."

"We need to be a player in the game," Formica said. "We can develop New London and we have an opportunity ... to really focus on this new and emerging industry. Two-thousand megawatts is realistic and I think it sends a clear message that we are ready to jump into this industry and support it with everything that we have."'

Finally, The Day editorial board wrote about the news from the Eastern CT Chamber's event:

Read the full text of the editorial here. Excerpts (emphasis added):

"If a decade down the road an ever-expanding offshore wind industry is one of the major economic engines for Connecticut, with the New London port serving as its nexus, Tuesday's extraordinary gathering of state and local leaders might be viewed as the point the talk turned serious."

"The bipartisan panel of business, political and environmental leaders who attended the business breakfast, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticutat the Holiday Inn in New London, delivered a collective message that the state is prepared to be a serious player in the competition to capitalize on this opportunity."

To learn more about offshore wind opportunities in your state please contact Jessica Bergman at Jbergman@sfchamber.com.

Chambers for Innovation 1/16/19 Chambers for Innovation 1/16/19

4th Annual Champions of Clean Energy Awards Brings Together Chambers of Commerce From Across North Carolina

On Tuesday, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy and Conservatives for Clean Energy co-hosted the 4th Annual Champions of Clean Energy Awards Luncheon where the Currituck Chamber of Commerce was recognized with a Clean Energy Champion award for their continued commitment to expanding solar and wind energy projects across Northeastern North Carolina.

Along with the Currituck Chamber, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) and Conservatives for Clean Energy (CCE) were joined by Local Chambers from across the state to recognize businesses and organizations that are playing a leading role in expanding clean energy investment and economic development in the state. Chambers from Charlotte, Boone, Durham, Lake Norman, and Edenton-Chowan all participated or presented awards at the luncheon.

In addition to honoring the Currituck Chamber, CICE and CCE presented awards to the 100% clean energy powered Appalachian Mountain Brewery located in Boone, NC; SAERTEX, whose Huntersville manufacturing plant employees nearly 200 people making materials for wind turbine blades; the SAS Institute, leading by example with their investments in ‘smart campus’ and renewable energy technology; Cree, an industry leader in energy and efficiency equipment; and the NC Retail Merchants Association, which has led efforts to expand clean energy opportunities for large retailers across the state.

“We were thrilled to once again join with Conservatives for Clean Energy to honor those organizations that are driving economic development in North Carolina,” said Jennifer Behr, Senior North Carolina Organizer for Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy. “Thanks to their leadership, all North Carolinians are benefiting from new investment in the state, expanded job opportunities, and increased economic development.”

You can read more about this year’s event from local media coverage:

Green conservative group sees hopeful signs for NC legislative session (Charlotte Business Journal - Pay Wall)
Did North Carolina turn a corner with Amazon project? (Greensboro News & Record)

Chambers for Innovation 11/14/18 Chambers for Innovation 11/14/18

Lawsuit Aims To Attract More Wind Investment and Development To Ohio

This week, a group of farmers in Paulding County (OH) and a wind industry association filed a lawsuit against the state of Ohio alleging that the General Assembly violated the state's constitution when it mandated a dramatic increase in the distance wind turbines must be located from property lines. The suit alleges that the mandate is unconstitutional because it was included in an "unrelated budget bill, which is against the "single subject" rule. Read News Article Here

The plaintiffs and other economic development leaders in Ohio claim that the impact of the "setbacks" has in effect put a moratorium on wind development and new investments in Ohio, stating "Every Ohio wind project under development has been abandoned or stalled."

Mikayla Pieper, Executive Director of the Paulding Chamber of Commerce, is a big supporter of the economic benefits of wind investment for her community. She is in the news this week commenting on the lawsuit:

"Constitutionality of the provision aside, it's imperative that Ohio finds a way to improve the wind setback requirement to a distance that permits wind energy development," said Mikayla Pieper, Executive Director, Paulding Chamber of Commerce. "Opening our state for wind development will help attract business to our state, as well as create new opportunities for existing Ohio businesses. We look forward to the court's action in this case."

Chamber leaders and economic development officials in communities across Ohio are actively supporting renewable energy projects that grow their tax base, develop a skilled workforce, and create new investment opportunities in their communities.

Please contact Tom Bullock if you would like more information at tom@chambersforinnovation.com

Chambers for Innovation 11/8/18 Chambers for Innovation 11/8/18

NC Legislators and Chambers Tour Key Manufacturing Facility. Could NC become a Hub for Offshore Wind Components?

Earlier this month, Josh Bass, President of the Currituck Chamber of Commerce, traveled from the far northeast corner of the state to Huntersville, NC, to tour the SAERTEX manufacturing facility and participate in a strategy session. The SAERTEX facility leads the world in the production of the high-tech and light-weight materials used to produce turbine blades.

The tour of the facility was followed by a strategy session with SAERTEX leaders, Representative John Bradford (R-Mecklenburg), federal officials, wind industry experts and the Huntersville Chamber of Commerce. The goal of the strategy session was to determine how best to attract large manufacturers involved in the offshore wind supply chain to Currituck County and North Carolina as a whole.

It is estimated that North Carolina would gain 5,500 jobs, $251 million in wages, and $710 million in economic benefit from offshore development. Landing a major manufacturer from the supply chain would be game-changing for any county.

Currently, the nation's only developed offshore commercial wind project is off the coast of Rhode Island. The technology is fairly new and there is no existing supply chain of American companies manufacturing these more advanced turbine components. Components for the RI project were imported from Europe.

"I enjoyed going and learning first-hand about the manufacturing process. I was amazed to learn that all components for off shore wind turbines are currently manufactured overseas. We would like to see a major manufacturing facility in North Carolina. Whoever is able to attract the offshore wind turbine plants will land hundreds of jobs in their community - and we need to be sure we don't miss this opportunity," said Josh Bass, Currituck Chamber of Commerce President & CEO.

The Currituck Chamber has already seen the positive economic benefits that wind energy has provided to neighboring Perquimans and Pasquotank Counties, home to Amazon Wind East, NC's first wind project. Amazon Wind East is the largest taxpayer in each of those counties, generating tens of millions of dollars for the local economy.

Chambers for Innovation and the SE Wind Coalition organized the above tour and strategy session.

See the article and video here

Chambers for Innovation 10/31/18 Chambers for Innovation 10/31/18

New Op-Ed - Cape Ann Chamber Program Improves Bottom Lines and Gives Back to the Community

Ken Riehl, CEO of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, penned an op-ed for Energy Awareness Month about the importance of energy efficiency savings for local businesses.

“Energy is one of top expenses for small businesses” according to the National Federation of Independent Businesses.” Riehl said. “That’s why the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce is working with National Grid and other local business and municipal partners to spread the word about the Cape Ann Saves Energy (CASE) program.”

See the Chamber’s Op-ed here

To learn more about the CASE program visit https://capeannchamber.com/small-business/cape-ann-saves-energy/

Chambers for Innovation 10/3/18 Chambers for Innovation 10/3/18

Lancaster County Chamber CEO Talks About PA’s Energy Development & Lancaster’s Solar Leadership

"Wind and solar and other renewable energy powers are now just the next iteration of how Pennsylvania continues to lead," Baldridge says.

Among the area businesses embracing solar energy are Urban Outfitters, Elizabethtown College, and local farms. In September, the Courtyard by Marriott-Lancaster also transitioned to 100 percent solar power. And in March, the State of Pennsylvania awarded $2.4 million in grants for eight new solar energy projects in Lancaster.

"Having an energy industry like solar in our own backyard and being able to tap that as aggressively as possible is a great way for us to control our future and create a clean, more sustainable energy source for Lancaster County," Baldridge said.

Watch video here

Read more about the Lancaster Chamber's leadership on clean energy here and here.

Chambers for Innovation 9/27/18 Chambers for Innovation 9/27/18

Local Chambers From Red, BLue & Purple States Speak at Global Climate Summit

According to Doug Luciani, President and CEO of Traverse CONNECT/Traverse City Chamber of Commerce in Michigan, "Local chambers and the private sector have an important role to play in creating resilient communities. Local chambers are ideally suited to be the leading conveners of stakeholders on this important economic development issue."

One local chamber CEO, Aaron Nelson, President and CEO of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce, appeared by video since he was forced to cancel his attendance due to Hurricane Florence and the need to help prepare his community for the disaster.

Aaron Nelson, President & CEO, Chapel-Hill Carrboro Chamber of Commerce, NC and Christy Gillenwater, President & CEO, Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce, TN

"Climate change is creating challenges and opportunities for us: the challenge of resilience: how our economy is going survive, how our community will survive, how we will respond to changes now and changes on the way." Nelson said. "And then the opportunities: opportunities for economic development and innovation and job growth and working together to find solutions." He encouraged those working on resilience to reach out to local chambers. (Watch video here.)

Christy Gillenwater, President and CEO of the Chattanooga Area Chamber in Tennessee spoke about her community's leadership on clean energy, the development of Chattanooga's Advanced Smart Grid, and a community plan for growth and resilience. Chattanooga's leadership and investments in innovation and clean energy support community resilience, economic development and the ability to attract the best young talent to her community.

The event also featured Brian Strong, Chief Resilience Officer for the City of San Francisco, who spoke about the value local chambers bring to resiliency conversations and planning, and was moderated by Diane Doucette, Executive Director of Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

The event attracted many local chamber leaders and businesses interested in resilience and clean energy. The event was organized by Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy and the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce.

Chambers for Innovation 8/9/18 Chambers for Innovation 8/9/18

Boone Area Regional Chamber Co-Hosts Clean Energy Event Recognizing Sen. Deanna Ballard as “Clean Energy Champion”

If ever there was a setting for a perfect local chamber-hosted conversation about the growing economic opportunities in clean energy, this was one of them:

The setting: The Appalachian Mountain Brewery, which boasts solar panels on its roof, in Boone, North Carolina, a Blue Ridge Mountain town named for the explorer Daniel Boone.

The host: The Boone Area Regional Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

The special guests: Sen. Deanna Ballard (R-45)—the first State Senator to receive a “Clean Energy Champions Award” from a NC local chamber of commerce—who was joined by Rep. Jason Saine (R-45), who received the first “Clean Energy Champions Award in 2017.

Here are a few highlights of their conversation:

Sen. Deanna Ballard (R-45), 2018 Clean Energy Champion. “It has been my pleasure to work with the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, Commerce and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy; and I am honored to be recognized as their Clean Energy Legislative Champion. The High Country is home to some of the nation’s most advanced and innovative energy technologies at Appalachian State University, and is home to many companies that are pioneers in corporate sustainability. I look forward to continuing to work alongside them, local businesses, and my fellow legislators in advancing clean energy jobs and investments and finding more ways to support renewable generation efforts across the state and #NC45.”

Rep.Jason Saine (R-45), 2017 Clean Energy Champion. “It is a well-known fact that the country’s leading corporations, including almost half of the Fortune 500, are trying to meet their aggressive sustainability goals by doing business in states with strong clean energy policies. Locations that want to attract economic investment from these companies are going to have to embrace these emerging industries and have policies in place that allows them to thrive.”

David Jackson, Boone Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO.jpg

David Jackson, Boone Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO. “Our natural resources are the part of our tourism economy that set us apart from the rest of the state. They can also be attractive distractions to those that choose to live and work here. Often the people who are recruited to work in these environments have a passion for sustainable tech and innovation. The further connection of these opportunities will only help our region attract more high paying jobs while giving those employees and excellent setting to work and play."

Chambers for Innovation 7/24/18 Chambers for Innovation 7/24/18

Middlesex Chamber’s Innovative Financing Program to Boost Local Jobs, Profits and Investment

Businesses everywhere are looking to save money when it comes to energy costs. In response, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Connecticut Green Bank to help member businesses afford energy efficiency and clean energy upgrades. Together they are promoting a clean energy financing tool called Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy, or C-PACE. This innovative solution provides long-term, low interest financing to help local building owners take control of their energy costs. With 100% financing, no upfront cost required, and terms of up to 25 years available through C-PACE, energy upgrades are more affordable and accessible than ever.

"We're always looking for an opportunity to provide value to our members," says Jeff Pugliese, Vice President of the Middlesex Chamber. "The partnership with the Connecticut Green Bank was a no-brainer. C-PACE helps local businesses save money on their energy bills and reinvest this money into other parts of the business. When businesses thrive, it can help spur economic development and support job creation," he added.

Earlier this year, the Green Bank announced that Connecticut's C-PACE program had helped over 200 Connecticut building owners with more than $114 million in clean energy financing, making the state's program second only to California's C-PACE program in terms of clean energy financing. And C-PACE is just one of the Green Bank programs that have helped attract more than $1 billion in investment into the Connecticut economy and created more than 13,000 jobs.

"The key is to have great partners like the Middlesex Chamber, which understands that C-PACE is a terrific opportunity to help their members," says Mackey Dykes, Vice President of Commercial, Industrial and Institutional Programs at the Connecticut Green Bank. "Energy costs and building improvements are often one of the biggest challenges that Chamber members face. C-PACE can be the answer."

With C-PACE, building owners can enjoy the advantages of energy upgrades immediately and pay for them over time. It's a safe investment that produces returns immediately and for years to come.

Middlesex Chamber member Galleria Stone and Tile used C-PACE financing to install a 125kw solar photovoltaic installation while building a new factory last summer. "With this new solar installation, our energy costs have remained pretty much flat, even though we've expanded dramatically," says Rich Yuris, CFO of Galleria.

Interested in learning more about C-PACE, or want to partner with an established C-PACE program in your state? Contact Jessica Bergman at (jbergman@sfchamber.com) for more information.

See what PACE programs are available in your state at http://pacenation.us/

Pictured up top from left to right, are: Larry McHugh, President, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce; Mackey Dykes, Vice President of Commercial and Industrial Programs, Connecticut Green Bank; Robert Schmitt, Associate Manager, Marketing, Connecticut Green Bank; and Jeff Pugliese, Vice President, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce.

Chambers for Innovation 7/19/18 Chambers for Innovation 7/19/18

Many Local Chambers Across US in the News Supporting Clean Energy

Local chamber of commerce CEOs are making news for their leadership around clean energy. Here are some recent highlights:

PA Clean Energy Financing Law Good For Business. Chris Heck, CEO of the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, recently wrote an op-ed praising Pennsylvania’s new clean energy financing law, saying: "The bipartisan clean energy financing bill [recently signed into law] by Gov. Tom Wolf will grow jobs, save businesses money—and, best of all, it won'tcost taxpayers anything." Read more in The Pittsburgh Business Times. .

Local Chamber Energy-saving Program Makes The Boston Globe. When the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy and other partners, launched a new energy-saving initiative last month, several news outlets took notice. Read more in The Boston Globe.

Susan Munroe, CEO of the Van Wert Area Chamber

Ohio CEO Says Wind is the --Greatest Economic Opportunity in Rural Ohio—But Not All Benefit. “Some of us have experienced that promise of economic opportunity with wind farm development and some of us have been denied,” Susan Munroe, CEO of the Van Wert Area Chamber, said at a capitol news conference. Read more in Statehouse News Bureau.

10 MA Local Chambers Press for More Renewable Energy. Ten local chamber leaders made news when they called on state lawmakers to increase the Commonwealth’s commitment to clean energy—saying it will send “the right market signal to clean energy industries, such as solar, energy storage, and offshore wind, that the commonwealth is the place to invest.” a positive market signal for investments. At least two media outlets reported on their message. Read more in The Worcester Telegram and The Herald News

Doug Luciani, President and CEO of Traverse Connect and Co-chair of CICE's Advisory Council — Doug Luciani, President and CEO of Traverse Connect and Co-chair of CICE's Advisory Council

MI Utility Program to Boost Renewables Good for Region. Doug Luciani, President and CEO of Traverse Connect and Co-chair of CICE’s Advisory Council, co-authored an op-ed in support of a new voluntary green pricing program—saying the resulting investments in clean energy will “keeps the money from power generation circulating in our community, and offers the possibility of construction jobs and other related employment.” Read more in The Record Eagle.

Wendy Northcross, CEO of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce

Offshore Wind Will Benefit MA for Decades, Local Chamber CEO Says. Three new proposed offshore wind projects would deliver decades of economic benefits to the people of Massachusetts, Wendy Northcross, CEO of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, wrote in an op-ed. Read more in the Cape Cod Today.

Also:

See Toledo Chamber and Toledo Blade Article

See Chattanooga Chamber and Times Free Press

See more Chambers in the News.

See stories of Chambers in Action from North Carolina to Pennsylvania and Ohio to Tennessee.

Chambers for Innovation 7/12/18 Chambers for Innovation 7/12/18

Local Chamber Praises Wind Energy as Key to Economic Development

At a recent roundtable hosted by Chambers for Innovation and Conservatives for Clean Energy, Lt. Gen. John Castellaw, Rep. John Szoka (R-45) and Holly Grange (R-20) addressed the question: Are wind energy and military operations compatible in North Carolina?

At a recent roundtable hosted by Chambers for Innovation and Conservatives for Clean Energy, Lt. Gen. John Castellaw, Rep. John Szoka (R-45) and Holly Grange (R-20) addressed the question: Are the growing economic developments of wind energy compatible with military operations in North Carolina?

***Rep. Bob Steinberg and Lt. Gen. Castellaw***

The answer: A resounding yes.

"The bottom line is the military already has an effective, non-political, non-emotional, just-the-facts, well-established process for making sure that wind and other energy projects are compatible with operations and promote our national security. Imposing blanket restrictions on wind development in the name of national security can make us more insecure."

-- Lt. Gen. Castellaw, served 36 years in the Marine Corps including nearly 10 years flying over eastern North Carolina.

“We need safe military operations, new energy resources for ratepayers and the benefits of increasing the property tax base for rural counties. I am personally satisfied that wind operations effects are negligible on military training. Recent congressional action that further clarifies the Department of Defense Clearing House procedures, including mandatory involvement of local bases, should remove any remaining doubt to those who may be skeptical of wind.”

-- Rep. John Szoka (R-Cumberland), is a retired Army Colonel who represents Ft. Bragg in the General Assembly.

“The Edenton-Chowan Chamber is grateful to Lt. Gen. Castellaw and Reps. Szoka and Grange for taking the time to ensure that other members of the legislature have factual knowledge about wind energy’s present and future impact on military operations in our state. We applaud these efforts to educate their peers on how critical the Northeastern North Carolina wind projects and resulting economic benefits are to the growth, prosperity and sustainability for a region like ours.”

-- Win Dale, Executive Director of the Edenton-Chowan Chamber of Commerce, said after the event.

Chambers for Innovation 7/12/18 Chambers for Innovation 7/12/18

10 Local Chambers Call on MA Lawmakers to Boost Commitment to Renewable Energy—Citing Economic Benefits

Ten local chamber leaders recently called on state lawmakers to increase the Commonwealth’s commitment to clean energy—saying it will send a positive market signal for investments. And their message is being heard in the media.

Ten local chamber leaders recently called on state lawmakers to increase the Commonwealth's commitment to clean energy--saying it will send a positive market signal for investments. And their message is being heard in the media.