Reno + Sparks Chamber Supports Increase to Nevada's Renewable Portfolio Standard

Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce was a key supporter of SB 358, which doubled Nevada’s renewable portfolio standard

Nevada Governor Sisolak signs SB358

The Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce was a key supporter of SB 358, which doubled the state’s renewable portfolio standard (RPS) to 50% by 2030 and requires 100% carbon-free emissions by 2050. The bill received unanimous bipartisan support from both chambers of the Nevada Legislature during the 2019 Legislative Session and overwhelming support from state voters for higher renewable targets.

“Renewable energy is a major cornerstone of my economic development plan, and this bill will put Nevada back on the path toward renewable energy leadership on a nationwide level and continue to bring well-paying jobs to our communities,” Governor Sisolak, who signed the bill into law, said. “Today, Nevada sent a message to the country and world that the Silver State is open for business as a renewable leader, and our commitment to growing our clean energy economy transcends party lines.”

Increasing Nevada’s RPS brings a multitude of economic benefits to the state. Nevada’s clean energy jobs totaled more than 32,000 at the end of 2018. By some estimates, meeting the targets of Nevada’s new RPS could support an additional  11,170 full-time jobs by 2030 and generate $539 million in wages and $1.5 billion in economic activity.

“Renewable energy has been a significant part of the Nevada economy for years and we welcome the increased economic opportunities more energy development will bring to Nevada,” said Ann Silver, CEO of the Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber also recognizes the impact that cleaner air, via more clean energy, will have on our quality of life.”

Ann Silver CEO Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce

Traverse City Chamber Takes Lead to Transition to a Clean Energy Economy

Traverse City Area Chamber Issues Statement on Climate Change Policy

Traverse City, MI

Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce is front and center in leading its community to transition to a clean energy economy and has released a comprehensive clean energy legislative policy. The policy was developed by a Climate Change Task Force of its members, including representatives from the energy, transportation, real estate, tourism, technology, agriculture, manufacturing, nonprofit and retail sectors.

“We believe there is great potential for transitioning to a clean energy economy, and Northern Michigan can be a leader in this transition” said Traverse Connect President & CEO Warren Call in a recent press release.  “The policy seeks to maximize the potential of climate legislation to unleash innovation and job creation while minimizing disruption to our businesses, communities and citizens.”

The chamber proposes that any legislative or regulatory approach adopted should have a meaningful impact on carbon emissions, while also considering reliability, affordability, and environmental impact for energy supply.

The policy states: “We call on policymakers to seize on an approach that rises to the challenge of climate change, leveraging business leadership and expertise, America’s energy edge and our ability to innovate…”

Read the press release here.

See the news story here.

Warren Call, President & CEO of TraverseCONNECT

If you would like more information about Michigan Chambers of Commerce and the economic benefits of clean energy initiatives, please contact susan@chambersforinnovation.com.