Texas Built an Energy Powerhouse—New Rules Could Tear It Down
Texas has long prided itself on being a business-friendly state with low regulatory burdens and a reasonable tax structure. No sector has benefited more from this environment than energy. There’s a reason Texas is the energy capital of the United States. However, two bills currently moving through the legislature—combined with production constraints for natural gas turbines—could create a nightmare for Texas’ electrical grid and the businesses and consumers that depend on it for affordable, reliable power.
Last week, the Texas Senate passed SB 388, which mandates that utilities generate or purchase at least 50% of their electricity from “dispatchable” sources—defined as sources that: 1) are not dependent on weather, 2) can produce electricity quickly when called upon, and 3) can generate electricity continuously for a set period of time. Coal, natural gas, and nuclear plants are always considered “dispatchable”. Battery storage is generally considered dispatchable as well since it can send energy to the grid in milliseconds, isn’t weather-dependent, and can provide power continuously for up to eight hours. However, SB 388 specifically excludes battery storage from the definition of “dispatchable”, despite the fact that battery systems shattered a record earlier this week by providing more than 10% of the energy on the grid while over 25,000 MW of coal and gas generation were offline. This led noted Texas energy expert Doug Lewin to say “[b]atteries are keeping us out of energy emergencies.”
Today, building new coal generation is not economically feasible, and constructing natural gas and nuclear generation facilities takes a minimum of five years—usually more. If passed, SB 388 will unnecessarily restrict utilities from generating or buying electricity from the most practical, least expensive, and fastest-to-build sources (solar, wind, and batteries), threatening both affordability and reliability for consumers.
This week, the Senate Committee on Business & Commerce will consider SB 819, which requires wind and solar developers to obtain permits from the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) in order to build their projects. This may not seem terribly burdensome until one considers that no energy generation facility of any kind in Texas has EVER had to apply for a PUC permit.
The bill also imposes impact fees—a burden also not imposed on any other form of energy generation—on solar and wind projects. Furthermore, SB 819 provides the PUC with no clear guidelines for evaluating wind and solar applications, effectively giving unelected commissioners the power to approve or deny projects at their whim. If passed, this bill would unfairly constrain two of the fastest-growing, fastest-to-build sources of energy in Texas, contradicting the state’s long-standing free-market, “all of the above” energy policy.
Adding to the problem, the years-long backlog in gas turbine production has been widely reported. So, if a utility decides today that it needs to build new generating capacity to keep up with growing energy demand, it faces a serious dilemma:
Building a new gas plant (to comply with SB 388’s “dispatchable” requirement) may mean waiting five years for the necessary turbines.
Building a wind or solar farm risks violating the 50% dispatchable requirement under SB 388, while also facing uncertainty over whether the PUC will approve the project under SB 819.
Texas’ energy demand is rising at the fastest rate in more than 20 years. Utilities and private sector developers need flexibility to build the generation and storage facilities that make the most sense. Now is not the time to abandon the free-market, pro-business principles that are near and dear to the heart of Texans and have made Texas’ grid reliable.
Please ask your legislators to uphold Texas traditions and vote NO on SB 388 and SB 819.
Suggested Talking Points
Texas is the energy capital of the United States because of its free-market, “all of the above” energy policy that allows all forms of energy to compete on a level playing field
SB 388 disrupts this free-market, “all of the above” approach by requiring 50% of all new energy generation come from “dispatchable” sources (coal, natural gas, and nuclear)
Despite Texas being second in the nation in battery deployment and battery technology meeting every legal definition of “dispatchable”, SB 388 specifically excludes battery storage systems from being deemed “dispatchable”
Due to the lack of economic feasibility of coal generation, natural gas turbine supply chain problems, and long construction timelines for nuclear, it is not possible for Texas to meet the 50% threshold for “dispatchable” power under SB 388 in the near term
If SB 388 passes, the net result will be very little to no new energy generation in Texas due to the inability to meet the 50% threshold, halting economic development and growth across Texas
SB 819 also disrupts Texas’ free market, “all of the above” energy policy by subjecting wind and solar to new Public Utility Commission (PUC) permitting processes. No other form of generation has ever had to obtain such a permit in Texas history
SB 819 also subjects solar and wind energy to impact fees which no other form of energy generation has to pay
Solar and wind are the fastest to market and least expensive forms of new energy generation and they, along with battery storage, will play a pivotal role in helping Texas meet our growing energy demand.
SB 388 and SB 819 will not help Texas meet our state's growing electrical demand, and risks halting Texas’ economic growth
Texas has long been our country's leading producer of oil and natural gas. In recent years, Texas has also become the number one state for solar and wind production, and is number two for battery storage capacity. Let's continue Texas’ energy dominance, not hinder it.
CICE Releases 17 Clean Energy Jobs & Economic Impact Reports, Showcasing Unprecedented Growth Opportunities in Key States
February 20, 2025 – Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) has released its annual, State Clean Energy Jobs & Economic Impact Reports, providing a data-driven snapshot of how clean energy is driving economic growth in states across the country. These reports demonstrate the major growth potential of the clean energy economy, with billions of dollars in investments, thousands of new jobs, and dozens of new projects transforming regional economies.
This year’s reports underscore tremendous opportunities for states to attract new business, expand their workforce, and strengthen their economies through clean energy. In response to growing interest, CICE has expanded its reporting from 10 to 17 key states—each poised for significant clean energy-driven growth.
“These reports showcase the game-changing economic potential of clean energy,” said Ryan Evans, executive director of CICE. “With billions in new investments, surging job growth, and major infrastructure projects on the horizon, clean energy is not just generating significant economic momentum but is also an important solution to meeting rising energy demand.”
Key Findings:
Clean energy is a powerful engine for state and local economies, driving investment and business expansion
3.5 million Americans are now employed in clean energy jobs, with workforce growth accelerating across multiple sectors
New utility-scale solar, wind, and battery storage projects are bringing billions in private investment to communities across the country
State Reports Available for Download:
Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
CICE invites chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, and businesses to co-brand a report with their logo to highlight their state’s clean energy opportunities. For customized versions or collaboration inquiries, contact CICE directly.
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About Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy: Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) is a nationwide network of chambers of commerce and economic development organizations advancing the clean energy economy. CICE supports and amplifies the voice of economic leaders and builds the business case for clean energy and sustainability as drivers of economic growth. Visit chambersforinnovation.com for more information.
CICE welcomes new Community Relations Coordinator
CICE is excited to welcome Kristen May as Community Relations Coordinator for CICE’s Energizing Economies campaign. Kristen will play a key role in engaging chambers of commerce and economic development organizations on utility-scale clean energy projects.
Kristen brings a strong background in community and economic development, having recently served as the Executive Director of the Darlington Chamber Main Street in Wisconsin, where she was able to exercise her passion for local businesses and entrepreneurship. As a farmer herself, she is passionate about supporting farmers with succession planning and ensuring long-term farm sustainability—especially when combined with clean energy opportunities.
A Wisconsin native, Kristen grew up in the Driftless Region of Southwest Wisconsin and now runs a century farm with her husband, Kevin. She remains deeply engaged in her community, including her active involvement in the county fair.
We’re happy to have Kristen’s expertise as part of our growing team!
Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy Releases 2024 Annual Report on Business-Driven Clean Energy Growth
February 13, 2025 - Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) has released its 2024 Annual Report, showcasing the increasing role of chambers of commerce and economic development organizations in driving clean energy investment, job creation, and economic growth.
“The numbers speak for themselves—clean energy is delivering real economic benefits across the country,” said Ryan Evans, executive director of CICE. “Chambers are leading the way in bringing clean energy investment and jobs to their communities, and we’re proud to work alongside them, providing tools and resources to help business leaders seize these opportunities and strengthen local economies.”
Key highlights from the report include:
The release of CICE’s Chamber Clean Energy Toolkit, featuring 100+ chambers of commerce and economic development organizations leading on clean energy and sustainability
The launch of the Energizing Economies campaign, helping chambers navigate siting and permitting for utility-scale clean energy projects
New resources, including a nationally recognized report on the business impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)
Broad support from business leaders nationwide, recognizing clean energy as a driver of investment, job growth, and economic development
As energy demand continues to rise, CICE remains committed to working alongside partners to ensure communities can meet this challenge with reliable, affordable, and quickly deployable energy solutions—unlocking economic growth and harnessing the full potential of clean energy.
The full 2024 Annual Report is now available at chambersforinnovation.com.
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About Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy: Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) is a nationwide network of chambers of commerce and economic development organizations advancing the clean energy economy. CICE supports and amplifies the voice of economic leaders and builds the business case for clean energy and sustainability as drivers of economic growth. Visit chambersforinnovation.com for more information.
CICE Responds to Wind Energy Executive Orders; Calls for Energy Reform to Boost US Competitiveness
Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) shares President Trump’s goal of unleashing American energy production, recognizing it as both an economic and national security imperative. Achieving this goal, however, requires energy policies that treat all forms of domestic energy production fairly and removes long-standing policy and permitting barriers that limit energy production and transmission.
While we applaud the administration’s focus on energy independence, recent executive orders halting the development of wind energy are not consistent with this goal and undermine a critical and growing sector of the energy economy.
Our economy is growing, driven by a burgeoning manufacturing sector and advancements in the digital economy. As the U.S. competes with China for global dominance in artificial intelligence—a critical national security priority—these growing sectors place significant demands on domestic energy production, generation, and transmission systems. Without substantial changes in energy policy at the federal, state, and local levels, these systems may struggle to meet our rising energy needs.
CICE strongly supports permitting reforms that accelerate all forms of domestic energy production and the development of the transmission infrastructure needed to deliver that energy. These reforms are essential to driving American economic growth and advancing national security, and they should be a top priority for our nation’s energy policy. We believe these reforms will do more to fuel American economic growth and further our national security interests than any other change to existing energy policy.
We strongly oppose any policies that disadvantage domestic clean energy sources such as geothermal, wind, solar, and nuclear. Rising energy demand already threatens to outstrip the capacity of current infrastructure. To sustain economic growth, particularly in the critical manufacturing and digital sectors, energy policies must fully unleash every available domestic energy source. We simply cannot afford to place unnecessary restrictions on wind and solar energy—the cheapest to build and the fastest-to-market domestic energy production options available. Our continued economic prosperity dictates that these technologies are critical to meeting our growing energy demand.
CICE has consistently championed clean energy as a driver of economic growth and national security. Today, the clean energy sector in the U.S. is growing at twice the rate of the overall economy, creating thousands of American manufacturing jobs, attracting billions in private investment, and building a robust domestic energy supply chain. These critical investments not only strengthen our economy but also reduce reliance on internationally traded fuels that are manipulated by global actors seeking energy dominance for themselves, bolstering U.S. energy security and safeguarding both our economic and national interests.
As clean energy continues to demonstrate its capacity to drive innovation, economic growth, and energy independence, we remain committed to advocating for bold investments in this sector.
CICE looks forward to working with the Trump Administration and Congress to achieve our shared objectives of increasing domestic energy production and unleashing America’s manufacturing might.
Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) is a nationwide network of chambers of commerce and economic development organizations advancing the clean energy economy. CICE supports and amplifies the voice of economic leaders and builds the business case for clean energy and sustainability as drivers of economic growth.
New Toolkit Empowers Business and Economic Organizations to Lead Economic Growth with Clean Energy Opportunities
The Chamber Clean Energy Toolkit includes examples of economic leadership from over 110 chambers of commerce and economic development organizations nationwide
December 2024 – Chambers of commerce and economic development organizations across the U.S. are turning clean energy and sustainability into an engine for economic growth and job creation. For over a decade, and with growing momentum in recent years, the clean energy sector has driven substantial investments, improved community resilience, and bolstered economic transformation. This progress is marked by a surge in manufacturing, advancements in energy generation, and the creation of hundreds of thousands of American jobs, particularly in rural areas.
To build on this momentum, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) has launched the Chamber Clean Energy Toolkit, a first-of-its-kind online resource showcasing over 100 chambers and economic development organizations driving economic growth through clean energy and sustainability initiatives. This free, informative toolkit provides actionable examples and strategies to empower organizations to seize opportunities in the clean energy economy and meet sustainability goals.
"Clean energy investments are fueling economic growth and creating jobs in communities across the country. The Chamber Clean Energy Toolkit equips chambers of commerce and economic developers with practical tools and proven examples to enhance their leadership, support their members, and attract new investment," said Ryan Evans, executive director of CICE.
A Toolkit for Action
This robust resource highlights success stories from chambers leading clean energy efforts. Highlights include:
The Greater Houston Partnership’s Houston Energy Transition Initiative (HETI) is a coalition of industry, academic, and community partners working together to ensure the long-term economic competitiveness and advancement of the Houston region as leaders of the global energy transition.
Jacksonville’s JAX Chamber’s strategy that secured Florida’s first electrified autonomous vehicle manufacturer
The Greater Cleveland Partnership’s support for Ohio small businesses through the Council of Smaller Enterprises, providing businesses valuable benefits like energy audits, rate management, and green leasing
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce celebrating the installation of their second electric vehicle (EV) charging station to help their community become South Carolina's EV charging hot spot.
Over 150 additional examples from around the country to help organizations create policy and economic statements, attract and support investment, create value-added programs, access incentives, build workforce development, and share information and resources.
The Case for Economic Leadership
Public support for clean energy and sustainability has never been stronger, allowing business leaders to shape a prosperous and sustainable future. Whether just exploring clean energy opportunities or looking to expand ongoing sustainability efforts, the Chamber Clean Energy Toolkit empowers leaders to:
Position their organizations as trusted community voices
Shape policies that reflect local business and community priorities
Advocate for forward-thinking economic strategies to bring capital investment and jobs to their region
The Clean Energy Toolkit is now available online at CICE’s website: www.chambersforinnovation.com/clean-energy-toolkit. Join the growing network of chambers and economic development organizations leading the way in clean energy transformation.
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About Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy: Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) is a nationwide network of chambers of commerce and economic development organizations advancing the clean energy economy. CICE supports and amplifies the voice of economic leaders and builds the business case for clean energy and sustainability as drivers of economic growth. Visit chambersforinnovation.com for more information.
NASCAR and Greater Durham Chamber among winners of 10th Annual NC Clean Energy Champion Awards
RALEIGH – NASCAR, Walmart, Truliant Federal Credit Union, the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, and three state legislators received today the 2024 North Carolina Clean Energy Champion Awards.
Geoff Durham, President and CEO of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce
The 10th annual awards, presented by Conservatives for Clean Energy North Carolina and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy, honor policymakers, businesses, chambers of commerce, and other economic development organizations for showing leadership in advancing clean-energy solutions, innovation, opportunities, and growth across the state.
Business winners
NASCAR received the groups’ Clean Energy Champion Award for its commitment to clean energy business practices and its work to promote economic opportunity. NASCAR and ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation, announced this summer the ABB NASCAR Electrification Innovation Partnership and revealed a new electric vehicle prototype at the Chicago Street Race. Together they are working to advance NASCAR’s strategic sustainability ambitions across electrification.
While NASCAR is committed to the historic role of the combustion engine in racing, it is also committed to decarbonizing its operations and reducing its own carbon footprint to zero across its core operations by 2035 through electrification and innovative solutions. NASCAR has installed several EV chargers at its Concord and Charlotte facilities.
Walmart received a Clean Energy Champion Award for its commitment to clean energy business practices, its leadership in state policy and regulatory engagement, and its work to expand economic opportunity across North Carolina. Walmart, North Carolina’s largest private employer, engages regularly at the General Assembly and the N.C. Utilities Commission to improve consumer access to clean energy resources and affordable rates. This year, that included advocating for and helping to reach a settlement in state Carbon Plan proceedings with Duke Energy. The company also has committed to the development of almost 1 gigawatt of new U.S. clean energy projects.
Truliant received a Clean Energy Champion Award for its commitment to clean energy business practices and its work to boost economic opportunities across North Carolina. Last year the company completed a 742-panel solar installation on the roof of its new Hanes Mall Operations Center at the mall’s former three-story Macy’s store. Roughly the size of a football field, it’s the largest rooftop solar installation in Forsyth County.
Additional sustainability measures at Truliant’s operations center include a building management system designed to manage efficiencies; upgrades to LED lighting in interiors and parking lots; and high-efficiency heating and cooling.
Durham’s Chamber received a Clean Energy Champion Award for its excellence in clean energy policy and economic development leadership. In June, Gov. Roy Cooper, legislative leaders, and other dignitaries joined chamber staffers to announce the launching of IONNA, a joint venture of seven major global automakers to develop a network of electric vehicle charging stations, with its headquarters in Durham.
The network will support and be open to electric vehicles of all brands, with more than 30,000 charging stations. In addition to its corporate functions, IONNA’s new state-of-the-art facility will include a customer experience lab for research and development of the hardware software and hardware necessary to operate it.
Legislative recipients
Sen. Michael V. Lee, a Wilmington Republican, received the Clean Energy Leadership Award for helping to expand clean energy, economic development, and consumer access across North Carolina.
Sen. Lee was the lead sponsor and champion of this year’s Senate Bill 802 in the General Assembly. The “Commercial Property Assessed Capital Expenditure Act,” which Gov. Roy Cooper signed into law, created an option for local governments to advance building resiliency and utility bill savings by giving commercial property owners access to low-cost, long-term, non-public financing repaid by tax assessments on their property. Building improvements that will qualify include energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy, and measures that protect against storm and flood damage.
Rep. Jake Johnson, a Republican representing four western counties in North Carolina’s General Assembly, received the Clean Energy Leadership Rising Star Award for his work to expand clean energy opportunities, investments, and consumer access.
Among his other activities, Rep. Johnson traveled across the state to participate in an educational tour with fellow legislators, economic developers, and others of Dominion Energy’s two wind turbines 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach. When fully operational, the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project will include 176 wind turbines that can power up to 660,000 homes and support 1,100 jobs. Similar wind energy projects are planned out of sight off North Carolina’s coast.
Former State Rep. Jason Saine, a Lincolnton Republican who resigned in August to pursue other opportunities, received an Outstanding Clean Energy Champion Award for his clean energy leadership throughout his 13-year legislative career.
Rep. Saine consistently championed policies that advanced clean energy investments, business opportunities, market competition, and greater consumer access and choices. He met with countless clean energy business leaders and toured renewable energy projects, high-performance energy efficient buildings, and electric vehicle and EV charging manufacturers across the state.
Sponsor comments
“We’ll certainly miss Rep. Saine at the General Assembly, but many other conservative legislative leaders are stepping up to protect energy consumers and promote free-market competition,” said Carson Butts, State Director of CCENC. “Renewable energy isn’t the only solution, but it’s an increasingly important part of the answer to the public’s growing need for affordable, reliable, and abundant energy across North Carolina.”
The awards were presented during a packed luncheon Tuesday at City Club Raleigh.
“For years, North Carolina has been a leader in solar energy generation and clean energy jobs, driven by the strategic vision of business and legislative leaders,” said Ryan Evans, Executive Director of Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy. “That leadership is now reflected in a surge of clean energy, electric vehicle, and battery manufacturing facilities across the state, with offshore wind energy on the horizon. We are proud to recognize this year’s Clean Energy Champions for advancing the clean energy economy and diversifying North Carolina’s energy landscape.”
Public support
Across all partisan and ideological lines, North Carolina’s voters strongly support more energy choices and more renewable energy, including offshore wind.
The 2024 North Carolina Energy Poll, conducted for CCENC and the national Clean Energy Buyers Association, found that among the state’s voters:
More than 77% want more consumer energy choices. This includes 79% of Republican voters, 77% of Unaffiliated voters, and 77% of Democratic voters.
More than 61% support building offshore wind turbines, up from 55% last year. Support rose to about 66% when told of the private investment wind energy would attract or that the turbines would be barely visible from the shore.
Overall, 74% think state law should encourage more renewable energy.
“As demand for electricity surges in North Carolina and across America, we need all the energy sources we can get,” Butts said. “Embracing clean energy is vital economically, good for consumers, and savvy politically – including for free-market conservatives.”
CICE Staff Appointed to Leadership Roles with U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management
This month, two members of CICE’s team joined the volunteer leadership of Institute for Organization Management (IOM), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s premier professional development program.
CICE’s newly recruited Director of Operations, Jennifer Reiser, CCE, IOM, was appointed to Institute’s National Board of Trustees, where she will work alongside CICE Executive Director Ryan Evans. The Board is responsible for helping set the organization’s strategic direction and advance Institute’s standard operating and curriculum policies.
Additionally, both Jennifer and CICE Midwest Regional Director Logan O’Neill, IOM, OhioCED, were appointed to the Midwest Institute’s Board of Regents, where they will implement the policies created by the Institute's National Board and ensure a high-quality experience for all participants in the region.
“A strong Board of Regents is essential to Institute’s success,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, VP of Institute for Organization Management at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “These volunteers drive site attendance, provide recommendations for program improvement, and serve as an on-site resource for Institute participants.”
CICE boasts a strong connection to Institute, with five staff members having completed the program and a sixth currently enrolled. Logan graduated from IOM Midwest in 2018 and returned as a class advisor in 2019 and 2024. Jennifer graduated from IOM in 2016.
The Institute program continues to educate tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members, and become strong business advocates.
CICE welcomes new Director of Operations
CICE is excited to welcome Jennifer Reiser as our new Director of Operations. Jennifer will be responsible for aligning operational strategies with the CICE’s long-term goals and instrumental in optimizing processes, and supporting organizational growth and impact.
Jennifer has decades of experience in non-profit and organization management, most recently serving as the Chief Operating Officer of the Billings Chamber of Commerce (Montana). She is a graduate of the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management, serves on the Midwest Institute Board of Regents, and received her Certified Chamber Executive credential in 2019 from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
She is a graduate of Rocky Mountain College and had a career in Environmental Public Health prior to joining the Billings Chamber in 2011.
Jennifer is a recognized leader and speaker, both locally and nationally, on leadership and workforce development, organization and change management, and is the author of Leading In Color – Leadership Lessons from the Animal World, leadership workbooks focused on the leadership traits of animals and how human leaders can emulate these traits and intentionally grow their leadership skills.
New CICE Report/Survey Finds IRA Has Significant Economic Impacts on Clean Energy Businesses and Communities
The Inflation Reduction Act has proven to be a positive economic generator, creating 600K jobs and adding over $200B to the economy
(October 15, 2024) — Businesses in the clean energy industry report that the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the CHIPS Act, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) have helped them grow, create jobs, and expand their economic footprint throughout the country.
The survey engaged nearly 930 clean energy and clean vehicle businesses across the U.S. Subsequently, interviews were conducted with stakeholders in six states across the construction, manufacturing, and professional services industries. The findings emphasize the positive impacts of the IRA, which resulted in new technology expansion and job creation, and spurred growth and innovation across various sectors, including energy efficiency, renewable electricity generation, energy storage, and electric/alternative transportation. Many major provisions of the IRA have enjoyed a long history of bipartisan support.
Conducted by BW Research Partnership for the national, nonpartisan business group E2 and partners Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) and the Clean Energy Leadership Institute (CELI), the nationwide poll of clean energy business owners found:
Key Findings:
This survey showed strong industry support for the IRA. Eighty-five percent of respondents said the IRA was “very important” or “somewhat important” to their companies' growth.
Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they created jobs as a direct result of the IRA (64%)
Federal tax credits through the IRA provided certainty and reduced market risk, incentivizing the private sector to invest in clean energy technologies, particularly emerging technologies. These clearer guidelines boosted investor confidence and allowed growth.
The IRA adds financial stability to a nascent and growing set of technologies to help develop a suite of next-generation clean, domestic energy production options while onshoring manufacturing and creating over 467,000 jobs during the construction phase and at least 154,000 permanent American jobs.
Most respondents were considered small businesses, with roughly 100 employees or less and a majority of respondents have been in business for at least eight years (76%).
These initiatives have provided much-needed investments in rural areas. The high rate of new project installations, especially in rural areas, has created a transition pathway for workers from struggling industries to move into skilled clean energy jobs.
"The IRA is proving to be a tremendous accelerator for the clean energy economy, delivering a significant return on investment for the U.S. through the jobs and capital investments it has helped create. Equally important is the transformational impact the IRA is having in rural communities across the country, where new manufacturing jobs and tax revenues are being generated—bringing much-needed economic opportunities to areas where they have been difficult to realize,” said Ryan Evans, executive director of CICE.
This report serves as a reminder of the broader economic impact of clean energy investments and how policy can create certainty and lower market risk for investors across all sectors of the clean energy industry. Repealing or undermining either of these policies would slow investment and hinder the development of new technologies, jeopardizing job growth and economic progress, particularly in regions that need it most. Further, hindering the development of new technologies would weaken the U.S.’s effort to diversify our energy sources and achieve energy independence.
CICE recognizes the historically bipartisan support for most of the major provisions and applauds the efforts of many lawmakers who recognize and support the IRA's significant contributions to creating good-paying American manufacturing jobs while increasing our domestic clean energy production capacity.
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About “Impact Study of Arrested IRA Investment”
The national survey of nearly 930 business stakeholders was conducted in August 2024, concurrent with the second anniversary of the IRA. It was complemented by interviews with key executives involved in clean energy development, construction, and manufacturing. The survey sought to capture business sentiment about the direct impacts of the IRA, Bipartisan Infrastructure Act (BIL), the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, as well as state energy policies, on clean energy businesses’ hiring practices, revenue, and decision-making. A larger focus was placed on the impacts of the IRA as opposed to other federal policies due to the IRA’s broad impact on the clean energy and clean vehicles industries.
For more information on the survey, see Appendix A in the report.
About “Clean Economy Works” Impact Analysis
This analysis provides a thorough economic prediction of the impacts of the 338 announcements by filling in the gaps of publicly announced information. Modeled impacts differ from initial estimates offered by companies announcing new projects, tracked by E2. Ninety of the 338 announcements provided no capital investment estimate and 92 provided no job creation estimate. Additionally, those estimates were inconsistently defined, lacking clarity on whether they were direct jobs only or direct, indirect, and induced jobs, and if they were for construction or permanent positions.
For more information, see Appendix C in the report.
About Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy: Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) is a national network and information hub for local chambers of commerce and economic development organizations. Created and led by chamber of commerce leaders, CICE helps fellow chambers and their member companies successfully navigate and prosper in the clean energy space. CICE provides access to clean energy information, best practices, energy experts, incentives, and business opportunities. Visit CICE at www.chambersforinnovation.com.
About E2: E2 is a national, nonpartisan group of business leaders, investors, and professionals from every sector of the economy who advocate for smart policies that are good for the economy and good for the environment. Our members have founded or funded more than 2,500 companies, created more than 600,000 jobs, and manage more than $100 billion in venture and private equity capital. For more information, see www.e2.org or follow us on Twitter at @e2org.
About Clean Energy Leadership Institute: The Clean Energy Leadership Institute (CELI) is building a multiracial, diverse, and inclusive community of change-makers working across sectors and disciplines to lead an equitable, decarbonized, and resilient energy ecosystem.
Partner Quotes:
Bob Keefe, executive director of E2 and author of the recently released book “Clean Economy NOW” about the IRA, said:
“The impacts of this landmark policy are now crystal clear – as are the consequences if it’s repealed or rolled back.
“We now know the IRA is driving the creation of hundreds of thousands of jobs and generating billions in new wages and tax revenues for workers and communities in parts of our country that need it the most. And we now also know that if it goes away, businesses will lose money, workers will lose jobs and our economy will lose steam.”
Esther Morales, executive director of CELI said:
"The IRA and other policies have created unprecedented opportunities for young people and people of color to access the benefits of the clean energy economy.
“As businesses said in our survey, all of that is at risk if we go backward on the progress we’re just now beginning to make.”
Philip Jordan, vice president at BW Research, said:
“Businesses told us loud and clear that the IRA is a game-changer for their companies, their employees and for our economy.
“Taking it away means taking away revenues, jobs, and opportunities - not just for their companies and their employees, but for the local communities where they’re building these factories.”
New issues brief: The Value of Wind & Solar Combined with Energy Storage
Energy storage might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about energy security, but it’s becoming increasingly important to ensuring a stable, reliable, and cost-effective power grid. From balancing supply and demand to providing backup power during emergencies, energy storage technologies are key to modernizing our energy infrastructure and supporting economic growth.
For chambers focused on supporting and attracting business, understanding and advocating for energy storage can be a game-changer in maintaining a competitive edge. CICE’s new energy storage brief covers what energy storage is and the important role it has to play within our grid system.
Learn more here.
What role do EVs play in transportation infrastructure funding? CICE breaks it down in a new brief covering EV registration fees
We’ve always relied on the gas tax to fund our roads and bridges, but greater fuel efficiency has been chipping away at that revenue stream for decades. As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, how we fund roads and bridges is changing, and that has real economic consequences. EV registration fees are meant to ensure that everyone pays their fair share, but they can also discourage EV adoption and slow down economic growth.
For chambers of commerce, it's important to look at these fees and think about fairer ways to support transportation infrastructure without hurting the local economy.
Check out CICE’s EV registration brief to learn more.
CICE releases policy brief on anti-ESG legislation
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics have a major role in assessing long-term financial risks and opportunities, yet anti-ESG legislation is popping up across the country threatening to drive up costs for businesses and reduce the economic stability of your community.
Check out CICE’s new policy brief designed to help chambers of commerce and economic development organizations better navigate this complex topic. We explain the fundamentals of ESG, what anti-ESG legislation looks like, and the threat anti-ESG imposes to business and the free market.
Find CICE’s full brief here.
CICE welcomes new Southern Regional Director
CICE is proud to welcome Kyle Sheldon as CICE’s Southern Regional Director. His responsibilities include cultivating relationships with chambers of commerce and economic development organizations within the region, particularly in Texas.
Kyle spent the majority of his career working in the energy sector before jumping into the chamber of commerce and economic development world, most recently serving as President & CEO for Partnership Lake Houston.
He has served on numerous boards across multiple industries all with the intent of trying to improve his community and make a difference for future generations. His move to join the CICE team made perfect sense merging his past experience with his desire to make an impact.
Kyle completed his undergraduate in Marketing and Economics at Hardin Simmons University before pursuing his MBA in energy at the University of Oklahoma. He is currently working on his IOM credentials with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and set to complete the program in 2025.
CICE welcomes new policy director
CICE is proud to welcome Rob Bradham as CICE’s Director of Policy. His responsibilities include researching and monitoring relevant regulatory and legislative matters and helping to communicate CICE’s positions to stakeholders.
Rob has over a decade of experience working with local chambers of commerce, most recently as CEO of the Greater Dalton (GA) Chamber, where he served since 2015. Under his leadership, the Dalton chamber launched and managed “Believe Greater Dalton,” a five-year community strategic plan. The chamber also advocated for a number of pro-business measures and worked with the Joint Development Authority to recruit new manufacturing to Whitfield County, increasing the diversity of the manufacturing base and contributing to the long-term economic stability of the community. Rob was an active community partner in the Qcells expansion development in Dalton County. Qcells is an industry-leading clean energy solutions provider.
Prior to his tenure at Dalton, he also served in senior policy roles at the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce (TN) and ChamberRVA, the chamber of the Greater Richmond (VA) region. Before his work in the chamber industry, Rob was a private sector lobbyist in Virginia for nearly ten years.
CICE releases 2023 Clean Energy Jobs & Economic Impact Reports
CICE has released our annual Clean Energy Jobs and Economic Impact Reports for multiple states across the country. These reports highlight the significant impact of clean energy industries on each state’s individual economy, including job growth (now 3.3 million across the U.S.) and major developments and projects in each state in 2023.
This year, we've expanded the number of reports from six to ten. Two-page downloads are available for these states:
Arizona
Colorado
Georgia
Indiana
Michigan
North Carolina
Ohio
South Carolina
Texas
West Virginia
CICE and Conservatives for Clean Energy honor six clean energy champions in NC
CICE attends NC Clean Energy Champions Awards
Yesterday, CICE’s Ryan Evans, IOM and Michele Querry traveled to the City Club Raleigh for the 9th Annual North Carolina Clean Energy Champions Awards, co-hosted by Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy & Conservatives for Clean Energy (NC)
We were proud to honor these six champions for their commitment to clean energy and economic innovation.
👏 Cornerstone Clean Energy Champion Award winner:
Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) received this prestigious award for their continued commitment to helping NC realize the economic benefits of clean energy. They recently announced 3 of most significant econ investments in NC’s history re: clean energy and transportation.
Other clean energy champion businesses:
🏢 Charlotte Regional Business Alliance for participating in several events with federal, state, and local government officials and hosting over a dozen Taiwanese #EV manufacturers / suppliers to discuss investment opportunities in NC.
🏢 ABB for ongoing efforts to educate NC’s legislators, governor, state agencies, and other decision makers about the importance of pro-electric transportation policies, programs, and investments in NC.
🏢 Mystic Farm and Distillery for for being the world's largest solar powered bourbon distillery & for operating w zero-waste in their production process. The New York Times featured them as part of a “36 hours in Durham” story.
And two legislators were recognized:
🏛️ Representative Patrick Mchenry for co-sponsoring National Clean Energy Week resolution in the House every year since its inception.
🏛️ Representative Kyle Hall, who as a Chair of the NC House Energy & Public Utilities Committee, has spearheaded legislation on solar net metering, solar leasing, funding for a NC university energy center, and a study of possible utility market reforms.
Congratulations and thank you to our 2023 North Carolina Clean Energy Champion Award winners!
CICE staff attend, present at Ohio Energy Conference
Last week, the Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy team attended the Ohio Energy Conference to present and meet with chambers and business leaders across the state. Hosted by the Energy Coalition of Ohio , the OEC is the state's fastest growing energy education and networking event.
CICE’s director of public policy Emily Burlinghaus discussed challenges and opportunities for #energystorage companies on a panel alongside Kyle Shen, CEO & President of Nexceris; Roland Dixon, President of Special Power Sources; and moderator Rick Stockburger, President & CEO of BRITE Energy Innovators.
Emily highlighted federal tax credits (such as 48C and 48E) available to energy storage companies through the #InflationReductionAct, as well as state-level initiatives (procurement targets, grid firming requirements, clean peak standards, and compensation mechanisms like indexed storage credits and resource adequacy contracts).
The opportunity to deploy energy storage in Ohio offers utilities and grid operators new avenues to ensure reliability in light of a complex energy transition.
Some other notable themes from the conference:
Discussion of opportunities to overcome roadblocks to utility-scale solar in Ohio
Debate of potential improvements to grid data transparency to benefit ratepayers and manufacturers
Profiles of efforts to ensure that state and federal incentives serve environmental sustainability and equity goals
Highlighting of #innovation to promote and commercialize clean energy tech in Ohio
Repeated emphasis on workforce development to ensure both scalability and reliability of emerging clean energy tech
Along with Emily, recent additions to the CICE team Logan ONeill, IOM, OCED and Kelsey (Forren) Pepitone attended. Logan summed up the experience as eye-opening: “The amount of companies out there that are starting to pop up to address this evolving and growing industry is happening at such a rapid rate, there was a lot of discussion about not over-regulating, and the risk stifling the innovation and progress.”
Thanks to the Energy Coalition of Ohio for a great event.
CICE applauds the release of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
In response to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 framework recently released, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) issues the following statement:
Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) applauds the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 framework released yesterday that packages the elements of clean energy and climate policy that are the most impactful to further accelerate the clean energy economy, take meaningful steps to address climate change, and fight inflation.
“The clean energy and climate policies included in this package are a tremendous win for our country and economy. In particular, a ten-year extension of the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for renewable energy, which has demonstrated a significant return on investment over the years, will generate hundreds of thousands of jobs, create billions of dollars of economic activity, and help fight inflation,” said Ryan Evans, executive director of CICE. “Further, the extension of the tax credits will create certainty for clean energy development that will protect Americans from the volatility of natural gas prices, increase demand for renewable energy, and help decrease utility expenses for ratepayers across the country.”
Other key provisions in this package include tax credits for electric vehicles (EVs) and domestic clean energy manufacturing, as well as funding to accelerate mining of critical minerals needed to power the clean energy transition and increase competitiveness. These, combined with the ITC, will not only boost our economy but will also help our country achieve energy independence. The inclusion of funding to address environmental justice will improve the health and quality of life in underserved communities as well as create high-paying quality jobs where they are needed most.
CICE urges Congress to move quickly and pass this important legislation.