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 6/21/18 Chambers for Innovation 6/21/18

Growing Economic Opportunities Would Flow from Clean Energy Bill, Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber CEO Says

The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber was recently featured as an opinion editorial piece in the Pittsburgh Business Times applauding a new bipartisan bill heading for Gov. Wolf’s desk called Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy, or C-PACE. The program, introduced as SB 234 by Senator Guy Reschenthaler (R-Allegheny/ Washington), makes good Pennsylvania-style common sense by enabling more businesses to take advantage of cost-saving energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades.

"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’t cost taxpayers anything,” Chris Heck, CEO of the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, recently wrote in The Pittsburgh Business Times. The bill was cosponsored by Sen. Reschenthaler (R-Allegheny/ Washington) and Sen. Blake (D-Lackawana).

Read Heck's op-ed below.

Viewpoint: Clean-energy financing bill good for business

By Chris Heck

June 8, 2018

I’ll be frank. I’m an unapologetic advocate of what’s good for business and economic development in the Pittsburgh airport area. I’m immensely proud of our entire region’s efforts to become a center of world-class innovation. And when I see a “win-win” opportunity for business, economic development and this region, I consider it my mission and privilege to support it.

The clean energy-financing bill headed to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk is one of these winning and welcome opportunities. It will grow jobs, save businesses money, and, best of all, it won’t cost taxpayers anything.

Senate Bill 234, co-sponsored by Sen. Guy Reschenthaler (R-Allegheny/ Washington), would establish a program that makes sense by enabling more businesses to take advantage of cost-saving energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades.

This bipartisan legislation was overwhelmingly passed on the Senate floor earlier this year. And on May 23, the House also passed it by a wide 163-28 margin.

Known as Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy, or C-PACE, this bill would allow municipalities to establish voluntary programs to allow financing for energy upgrades with no upfront costs on new and existing buildings. They simply pay the loan back, over up to 20 years, as a portion of their property tax bill.

For commercial building owners, this means gaining the opportunity to access the growing number of clean energy innovations that can help them save on energy costs and increase the value of their properties.

For our region, it means more economic vitality and more jobs. An estimated 70,000 Pennsylvanians worked in energy efficiency and renewable energy in 2016, up 6 percent from 2015. Nearly half of these jobs are in the construction industry, and about one in five are in the construction industry, and about one in five are in manufacturing.

As recently as a decade ago, our region suffered as globalization and technology eroded the manufacturing industries that once defined us. Between 1970 and 1990, the City of Pittsburgh lost an estimated 100,000 steel jobs and unemployment hit a high of 18 percent.

But that was then. And this is now. Our region has been thriving because we have chosen not to look back but forward.

As the voice of the businesses in 34 communities across the Pittsburgh airport region, I know the value of innovation in this great area. I also know that it makes sense to seize every good, forward-thinking opportunity in front of us, including the one now awaiting signature on the governor’s desk.

Chris Heck is the president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce.

Chambers for Innovation 6/20/18 Chambers for Innovation 6/20/18

Chamber VP Says Solar Will be a “Major Part” of Region’s Economic Future

First Solar, a leading member of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, broke ground this month on a project expected to become what has been described as “the largest solar factory, by capacity, in the Western Hemisphere.”

First Solar, located in the Greater Toledo Region, broke ground this month on a project expected to become what has been described as “the largest solar factory, by capacity, in the Western Hemisphere.”

And that, says Toledo Chamber Vice President Brian Dicken, represents “a strong vote of confidence in Toledo as a major U.S. hub for advanced technology solar manufacturing."

The $400 million plant in Lake Township, slated to reach full capacity in 2019, will bring 500 new jobs to the Toledo region.

It also points the way to an essential element in the region’s future prosperity, Dicken says. "For northwest Ohio, researching, developing, and producing the next generation of solar technology is a major part of our economic future," he said.

Ohio currently ranks 11th in the nation for solar energy jobs, according to the Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA)—with an estimated 5,831 Ohioans employed in the industry in 2017. This reflects people engaged in solar installation as well as the manufacturing of solar technologies.

In Ohio, an estimated $529 million has been invested in the growing industry to date--$53 million in 2017 alone, according to SEIA. One reason for this growth: The price of solar energy has declined 53 percent over the past five years.

Economic Benefits of Offshore Wind in Clear View for Chamber, Business Leaders

On a beautiful sunny day, 115 local chamber of commerce and business leaders recently got onboard a boat in Massachusetts for a 30-mile journey to tour America's first offshore wind project, the Block Island Wind Farm.

With offshore wind development growing along the eastern seaboard, it was a fun opportunity for chamber leaders to learn about the tremendous economic benefits this new industry offers.

In a tour organized Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy and the National Wildlife Federation, chamber leaders learned about the benefits expected to accrue over the next decade to Massachusetts alone, including:

6,870 to 9,850 new jobs
$1.4 to $2.1 billion in investment
Economic opportunities for nearly 20 communities along the supply chain.

They also heard from several chamber colleagues. Check out the photos and quotes below.

photography by Sergio badmonkeypics@outlook.com

““The emerging offshore wind industry has the potential to generate approximately $680 million in annual property tax payments, as well as support approximately 160,000 jobs by 2050. That is good news for communities up and down the supply chain,” said Rick Kidder, President and CEO of the SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce. (Kidder is pictured above right, next to Jack Lank, President and CEO, United Regional Chamber.)”

““The Blackstone Valley Chamber sees great opportunity in offshore wind and supports efforts to keep Massachusetts competitive in this growing industry which will in turn help keep and grow manufacturing jobs in our state,” said Jeannie Hebert, President and CEO of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce.”

““As the President of the New England Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, I can say that we know offshore wind is on the mind of a lot of our members,” said Jane Garibay, who is also the Executive Director of the Windsor Chamber in Connecticut. “We support the local economic development opportunities that clean energy offers.””

photography by Sergio badmonkeypics@outlook.comBill White, Senior Director of Offshore Wind Sector Development, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center — photography by Sergio badmonkeypics@outlook.com
Bill White, Senior Director of Offshore Wind Sector Development, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center

Chamber Recognized for Helping Members Save through Energy Efficiency

The NNBE$ program connects local businesses to available energy saving programs and incentives offered through Mass Save which is run by the local utilities. (Businesses receive free energy audits, financing for upgrades, and rebates on recommended energy improvements.) It has already increased small and medium business participation by 30 percent.

What gets a local chamber of commerce to be recognized by the Governor, invited to the State House—and, in perhaps the highest praise possible, be established as a leader among chamber colleagues?

In the case of the Newton Needham Regional Chamber of Commerce, the answer has been one good idea that has helped approximately 375 member businesses receive more than $3 million in incentives for cost-saving energy efficiency upgrades.

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to recognize the Newton Needham Regional Chamber for the leadership they have shown by encouraging local businesses take advantage of the Mass Save program," Rep. Ruth M Balser said this month at a State House event honoring the chamber.

After recognizing the burden high-energy costs were having on its member companies, the chamber partnered with World Energy Efficiency Services, the City of Newton, and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy to launch the Newton Needham Business Energy $avers (NNBE$) program.

Also attending the event honoring the chamber were State Sens. Cynthia Stone Creem and Michael Rush, State Rep. Kay Khan, Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, and Needham Town Manager Kate Fitzpatrick. The chamber also received citations from all elected officials in Newton and Needham.

In 2017, Gov. Charlie Baker also recognized the chamber, saying: “I applaud members of the Newton-Needham Chamber of Commerce for their participation in the Mass Save program, their collaboration with various stakeholders, and their commitment to producing important savings for local ratepayers.”

And In March 2018, the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce—in partnership with the City of Gloucester, National Grid, and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy—became the second local chamber in MA to launch a program that increases the participation of member businesses in cost-saving energy efficiency measures.

Read more in The Patch.

Visit the Newton Needham Chamber to learn more about the NNBE$ program

Learn about the new Cape Ann program here.

Pictured from left, Rep, Kay Khan (Newton), President of World Energy Rick Galipeau, VP of World Energy Mike Santangelo, Director at Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy Jessica Bergman, Sen. Mike Rush (Needham), Needham Town Manager Kate Fitzpatrick, Chamber Environment Committee Chair Peter Smith, Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, Chamber President Greg Reibman, Sen. Cynthia Stone Creem (Newton) and Rep. Ruth Balser (Newton).

Chambers for Innovation 5/8/18 Chambers for Innovation 5/8/18

ACCE Chamber of the Year Knows a Winning Project When It Sees One

"I think it is important today for chambers to be engaged in clean energy, as the millennial generation is very focused on these issues; and if you want to attract that kind of talent, it's critical to look at clean energy as a core value. Local chambers are perfectly positioned to lead this."

Christy Gillenwater, President and CEO of the 2017 Chamber of the Year, is wise to trends -- from the economic to the demographic.

The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, like those Gillenwater has led before, is also very effective at what chambers do best: driving economic development. The chamber drove more than a half-billion dollars in economic impact from July 2015 to December 2017, according to a recent report.

So it should perhaps come as no surprise that when its member -- the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport -- recently announced that it was positioned to become the first airport in the nation to be 100 percent powered by solar energy, Gillenwater championed the move.

"We applaud the Chattanooga Airport -- and our region -- for continuing to demonstrate such exciting and important leadership in energy innovation," Gillenwater said. The airport's transition to solar energy, which is being funded largely through federal grants, is expected to lower costs and make the airport energy self-sufficient.

Gillenwater has also observed that investment in renewable energy is important for communities that want to attract young talent.

"I think it is important today for chambers to be engaged in clean energy, as the millennial generation is very focused on these issues; and if you want to attract that kind of talent, it's critical to look at clean energy as a core value," she said. "Local chambers are perfectly positioned to lead this."

Read more in the Times Free Press.

Chambers for Innovation 4/24/18 Chambers for Innovation 4/24/18

Offshore Wind Projects Would Benefit MA for Decades, Cape Cod Chamber CEO Says

"Given the promise of [the proposed projects,] it is critical for Massachusetts to show its seriousness by supporting the nascent industry's growth, so it does not become overshadowed by development activity under way in New York and other states on the Eastern Seaboard," Northcross wrote.

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 a recent op-ed in Cape Cod Today.

But as competition for offshore wind projects heats up along the east coast, the Commonwealth needs to act quickly to show its support, she added.

The local chamber CEO also cited some of the benefits expected to come from the proposed projects, noting:

A $15 million fund for development of supply chain, businesses, and infrastructure, and job-training programs for local workers through Vineyard Wind.
Some $2.75 million in agreements with the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Bristol Community College, New England Aquarium and other organizations through Bay State Wind's -- plus, more than $2 million in grants for research and programs to protect the region's fisheries.
Commitments of $1 million to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy to support economically disadvantaged students and another $1 million to the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth through Deepwater Wind's Revolution Wind project.

"By ensuring robust competition and diversity in the offshore wind industry from the start," Northcross wrote, "the Commonwealth will pay decades worth of dividends into the state's economy long after the first turbines are spinning."

Read the op-ed by Northcross in Cape Cod Today.

Other MA local chamber CEOs in the news include:

Rick Kidder, President and CEO of the SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce, who previously voiced his support for offshore in South Coast Today.
Jeannie Hebert, President and CEO of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce, who last year called for an increased commitment to renewable energy in the Worcester Business Journal.

Chambers for Innovation 4/12/18 Chambers for Innovation 4/12/18

New Initiative Helps Businesses with No-cost Energy Audits and Easy Access to Millions in Incentive Money

The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce -- in partnership with the City of Gloucester, National Grid, and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy -- launched a new energy-saving initiative last month; and several news outlets took notice.

Cape Ann Saves Energy (CASE) will help local businesses take advantage of free energy assessments performed by Energy Source, as well as incentives and financing for upgrades (for up to 70 percent) from the utility giant, National Grid.

"CASE is here to be a resource for local small business owners and help them take advantage of the great energy saving programs and rebates of National Grid," CEO Ken Riehl said.

"By cutting down on energy usage, local small businesses may see a reduction in their energy bills and reinvest their money into running a successful business," he added.

The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce is the second local chamber in MA to launch a program that increases the participation of member businesses in cost-saving energy efficiency measures.

The Newton-Needham Regional Chamber has helped more than 300 area businesses receive more than $3 million in incentives to fund energy-saving upgrades through their pioneering Newton Needham Business Energy $avers Program. It was recognized for its efforts by Gov. Baker in 2017 and will be by several policymakers at the Statehouse next month.

"When we read about Governor Baker's support of the Newton-Needham Regional Chamber Energy Program, we knew we had to take action," said Gregg Cademartori, Planning Director for the City of Gloucester. "So we partnered with the Chamber and contacted CICE that day," he added.

Republican Lawmakers and Local Chamber CEOs Call for Fix to Wind Setbacks

“I see that Ohio has an opportunity to not only be a leader in energy but to create a new economy—and that new economy in this case can be the economy of the wind industry,” said Sen. Dolan, sponsor of SB-238, the wind turbine set-back bill, which would strike a compromise to protects property rights and allow wind development to continue.

Watch video here.

Wind energy in Ohio, they said, comes down to a story of “haves” and “have nots.”

Four years ago, policies for wind energy changed. This resulted in some communities benefiting from wind investments and some losing millions because the new policies stopped investments in some communities.

But, said Sen. Matt Dolan (R- Cuyahoga), there is a better way.

Rep. Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin), who moderated the press conference, called SB-238 “a good bill for getting this subject going.”

A new report by the Wind Energy Foundation released at the conference found:

“By failing to restore the state’s property line setback law for new wind power projects to a reasonable limit, the Ohio Legislature is putting $4 billion in projected economic impact at risk from approved and proposed in-state wind farms, most of which would flow to its rural counties.”

Those speaking at the conference—which included chamber of commerce CEOs, economic development leaders, school superintendents, and county commissioners—all live in wind-rich communities, said Susan Munroe, President and CEO of the Van Wert Area Chamber.

“But some of us have experienced the promise of economic opportunities with wind farm development, and some of us have been denied that same opportunity,” she said.

Sen. Reineke said he hoped SB-238 would be passed this summer—noting the benefits would more than northwest Ohio.

“These turbines need to be made. These turbines need to be delivered. These turbines need to be installed. And these turbines need occasional maintenance. And all that work can be done by industries in Ohio,” he said.

Watch the video here.

Read the report here.

Pictured at top from left to right: Rep. Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin), Holly Stacey, Seneca County Commissioner, Mikayla Pieper, Executive Director, Paulding Chamber of Commerce

Chambers for Innovation 3/22/18 Chambers for Innovation 3/22/18

MA Senators Brief Local Chambers on New Energy Legislation

“Clean energy is a $11.4 billion part of Massachusetts’ economy—and growing,” Sen. Marc Pacheco (D-Taunton) told Local Chambers of Commerce the day after his committee introduced new energy legislation to help Massachusetts diversify its energy sources and satisfy corporate demand for more renewable energy.

Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester)—co-sponsor of S.1885, a bill aimed at accelerating solar energy development—joined Sen. Pacheco in telling Local Chambers that there is also a need for Massachusetts to do more to advance solar energy.

“We don’t want capital to migrate to other states because of lack of opportunity in ours,” Sen. Tarr said.

The Senators addressed local chamber leaders from across the state in a briefing call co-sponsored by the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, South Coast Chamber of Commerce, and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

“We were once the whaling capital of the world. Now New Bedford has been tapped as a prime location for offshore wind development,” said Rick Kidder, President and CEO of the South Coast Chamber. The South Coast Chamber has supported increasing renewable energy and the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) a key element of the new Senate legislation.

States Competing To Be The Nation’s Offshore Wind Hub

Massachusetts passed legislation in 2016 aimed at being the nation’s hub for offshore wind and attracting the investment and new jobs associated with this. But many states along the eastern seaboard, including New York, New Jersey, and Maryland, are competing with Massachusetts to be the offshore wind and solar energy hub. Rhode Island built the first offshore wind farm in the country.

“We want to embrace a clean energy future where Massachusetts is number one in offshore wind,” said Sen. Pacheco.

The Senate omnibus energy bill (S. 479) would set new targets for emission reductions, pursue energy storage technology, and grow the amount of renewable energy utilities purchase through the RPS from 1 to 3 percent. Read more about S.479.

Clean Energy Jobs

He added that the policies that have been put in place to advance clean energy over the past decade have contributed to:

109,000 clean energy jobs,
7,000 new companies, and
$11.4 billion in investments in the state.

Pointing to solar energy development, Sen Tarr told chamber leaders that due to restrictive policies on solar energy, there is a risk that solar projects could be stalled because of what are known as net metering caps, or limits on the excess amount of energy that can flow back to the grid if left unused by the owner of a business or home that uses solar panels.

“It’s important to economic development that we not have a stoppage in these projects,” he said. His bill, An Act Regarding Net Metering (S.1885), would increase the cap from 7 to 8.75 percent in an effort to keep the jobs and investments in the state.

Local Chambers have been active in supporting solar energy, offshore wind, and increasing renewable energy. Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy will continue to keep you informed as these issues move forward.

Chambers for Innovation 3/21/18 Chambers for Innovation 3/21/18

Popular Chamber Event Focuses on Economics of Wind, Solar Energy

“As a chamber, we are committed to fostering a thriving and sustainable local economy—and the economic development boost from clean energy development creates revenue and jobs that help us do that in ways that enhance our community’s quality of life,” said Bass.

Clean energy projects—including wind and solar—have brought some of the best economic news to the rural northeastern region of North Carolina in many years.

But local chamber leaders know that not everyone understands what a great economic story clean energy is.

That’s why Josh Bass, President of the Currituck Chamber of Commerce, decided to host an event to educate county commissioners, business leaders, landowners and others about it.

The event, which attracted more than 60 attendees, was organized by the Currituck Chamber, Currituck Cooperative Extension, the Currituck Republican and Democratic Parties, and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

“There has been a nearly $20 billion economic impact from clean energy projects in North Carolina since 2007,” said Jennifer Behr from Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy. And many of these benefits are going to economically challenged rural communities.

Currituck County will receive $500,000 in annual tax revenue alone from the local SunEnergy1 Solar Farm project. The state’s first utility-scale wind farm, the $400 million Amazon Wind Farm US East, is already the largest taxpayer in Perquimans and Pasquotank Counties.

Two Governors, Amazon Consultant, Foundation Leader Tell Local Chambers the Economic Outlook for Clean Energy is Strong

The transition to the clean energy economy is happening now. States are making it happen. Local communities are making it happen. And corporations are making it happen.

This was the message on last week’s special briefing call for local chambers from guest speakers Gov. Rick Snyder (R-MI); former Governor Bill Ritter Jr. (D-CO); Rich Powell, Executive Director of the ClearPath Foundation; and Theresa Kostzrewa, Consultant for Amazon.

The transition to the clean energy economy is happening now. States are making it happen. Local communities are making it happen. And corporations are making it happen.

“We had strong bipartisan support [for Michigan’s recent landmark clean energy legislation],” said Gov. Snyder, “because it was based on good science, good economics, and good substance as opposed to the winds of Washington.”

Today’s clean energy transition “is not being driven by mandates. It’s being driven by the market,” said former Gov. Bill Ritter, Executive Director of the New Energy Economy at Colorado State University.

“Renewable energy,” said Theresa Kostzrewa, Consultant for Amazon and Founder of Capital Advantage, “is going to continue growing. It’s not going to stop or slow down.” One reason is that many corporations are demanding it. “It’s not just the Amazons and Googles and Facebooks,” she said. “It’s Smithfield Foods, the largest pork procurers in the world. It’s everybody.”

Continue reading for more highlights from the call that attracted nearly 90 local chambers of commerce and member businesses from across the nation. The briefing was co-hosted by the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce, the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce, and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

Read: A Who's Who of Chamber Members... Who Are the Top Clean Energy Users.

Gov. Rick Snyder (R-MI):

“We had strong bipartisan support [for Michigan’s clean energy legislation] because it was based on good science, good economics, and good substance as opposed to the winds of Washington.”
“When the Trump Administration came in and went the other way [on renewable energy], we said we are not changing course because we have good, smart policy.”
“Our utilities were supportive and understood that coal’s days were numbered and that the faster they could make a transition in a smart way, it’s good for them.”
“I think we’re well positioned for the future. I’m very proud of what we’ve done.”

The Honorable Bill Ritter, former Governor of Colorado (D), Director of the Center for the New Energy Economy at Colorado State University:

“If you read only about Congress, you would assume there is nothing but [clean energy] rollbacks being done in Washington, D.C.
“Nothing can be further from the truth because of the activity that is happening with states, local governments, and corporations.”
“The cost of natural gas is making coal less attractive. And with the cost of renewable energy coming down we are seeing that coal plants are being replaced by renewables; and I think we will see that continuing as we go forward.”
“This is not being driven by mandates. It’s being driven by the market.”

Rich Powell, Executive Director of the ClearPath Foundation

“I joined a [U.S.] Chamber Foundation debate recently. In the past, it might have been between someone for and someone against clean energy. Now we were debating what is the right way to transition the economy to cleaner sources of energy.”
“Mary Barra, CEO of GM, just spoke today in front of a largely oil and gas crowd about electric vehicles and how the future for GM’s fleet will be a gas-free future.”

Theresa Kostzrewa, Consultant for Amazon and Founder of Capital Advantage

“Corporations are demanding renewable energy to power their operations. It’s not just the Amazons and Googles and Facebooks. It’s Smithfield Foods, the largest pork procurers in the world. It’s everybody.”
“Eighty-six percent of millennials want renewable energy.”
“If elected officials want their communities to be attractive [to corporations, millennials, and others] over the next 20 or 30 years, they need to provide access to renewable energy or be left behind.”
“Renewable energy is going to continue growing. It’s not going to stop or slow down.”

Kent Wood, Director of Government Relations for TraverseConnect and the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance

“Our members understand the value and economic benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency.”
“And we actively supported Governor Snyder’s efforts to have more renewable energy and more energy efficiency.”
“At our chamber, we created an energy efficiency loan program for our members that helped dozens of them save money through energy upgrades.”

Steve Clark, President and CEO of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce

“We settled on renewable energy as an important part of who and what we are because we think talent and a sense of place are two critical ingredients in economic development; and talent wants to be a part of a renewable energy community.”
“Fayetteville became the 54th city to commit to 100 percent renewable energy and the first in the state of Arkansas.”
“Our largest employer, Walmart … and all employers are looking to us to grow our community with renewables.”

Chambers for Innovation 3/8/18 Chambers for Innovation 3/8/18

PA Senator, Geisinger Brief Local Chambers on Three New Bills

PA Local Chambers hear from Sen. Reschenthaler, Geisinger Health, about the clean energy economic opportunities emerging in the state this year, and what chamber should be ready for.

Pennsylvania’s Innovative Culture Continues

To some, Pennsylvania may be best known for its great historical significance—as home of the Liberty Bell and the place where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the U.S. Constitution drawn up.

But Pennsylvania has an equally strong history of innovation: being home to the nation’s first baseball stadium, first commercial broadcast station, and the world’s first high-speed, multi-lane highway to name just a few examples.

So perhaps not surprisingly a growing number of Pennsylvania leaders are now taking steps to seize the growing economic opportunities in energy innovation.

“This is a win-win for everyone,” PA Sen. Guy Reschenthaler (R-Allegheny/Washington) said in a recent briefing call with Local Chamber of Commerce Leaders from across the Keystone State.

Sen. Reschenthaler is a co-sponsor Senate Bill 234, which would allow municipalities to establish voluntary programs to provide financing for energy upgrades without any upfront costs. Known as Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE), property owners re-pay the financing through a property assessment. C-PACE is offered in enabling legislation is active in 33 states plus Washington, D.C.

SB 234 was overwhelmingly passed on the Senate floor 42-8 and is now being considered by the House Commerce Committee. Sen. Reschenthaler asked that Chamber leaders contact their legislators to voice their support. Read more about C-PACE.

“It’s about job creation in high paying fields such as electrical contractors, excavating, general construction, engineering, and so on,” Sen. Reschenthaler said. “It will lower energy costs for local businesses, increasing competitiveness.” Importantly, he added, the program uses funds from private institutions, not taxpayer dollars.

Asked why he became interested in CPACE, Reschenthaler said because he believes in energy independence and knows that renewables help contribute to that.

Geisinger Savings Through Efficiency

Co-hosted by the Columbia Montour Chamber, the briefing call was also an opportunity for Local Chamber leaders to hear from Geisinger Health, the largest health system in Pennsylvania, about how they are saving with energy efficiency.

“Energy is one of these topics that can benefit everyone,” said Al Neuner, VP of Facility Operations at Geisinger Health System. As a result of its investments in energy efficiency, Geisinger Hospital has saved $15 million in energy costs, Neuner said.

“And businesses do not have to be as large as Geisinger to benefit from energy efficiency—he noted, adding that it is very scalable and no-risk. Watch a video about Geisinger’s energy efficiency program.

“One of the things we can do as chambers is to play the role of conveyor and bring our business members, the community, the utility, and workforce development organizations together to exchange information so that clean energy, and clean energy workforce training is more relatable to all of our businesses and community members,” said Fred Gaffney, President of the Columbia Montour Chamber.

“There are people and resources there to help you pay for this,” he said, referring to Act 129, a law passed in 2008 to encourage energy efficiency and provides rebates for new appliances, lighting and windows and energy audits. Read more about Act 129.

A 2017 Public Utility Commission study found that Act 129 has delivered $6.4 billion in benefits for all electric consumers to date.

Growing Solar Jobs in PA

The speakers also briefed Local Chamber leaders on the recently passed Act 40, the Solar Jobs bill, aiming to limit state payments to out of state projects and grow jobs here in PA.

Ron Celentano, President of Pennsylvania’s Solar Energy Industry Association told the audience that up to 70 percent of the solar energy purchased in the state was coming from outside the state, said.

The new Solar Jobs bill corrected this by requiring that the solar come from within Pennsylvania.

“We see this as a great opportunity to have more solar jobs created within the state,” Celentano said. “And we’ve been seeing growth of solar jobs already since the passage.”

The call was co-hosted by the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy. Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy will continue to keep you informed as these issues move forward.

Learn more: Post-Gazette

Chambers for Innovation 3/8/18 Chambers for Innovation 3/8/18

CT Chambers Host Sen. Winfield and CT Green Bank President on Briefing Call

Senator Winfield, who is also the Deputy Majority Leader, made his comments during a February briefing call co-hosted by the two largest Local Chambers of Commerce in the state, Middlesex and Greater New Haven, in partnership with Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

Green Bank says “Bring your projects, we have capital!”

Senator Winfield, (D-New Haven) co-chairs the Banking Committee, and the Energy and Technology Committee.

Here are his key messages to local chambers:

“If Connecticut wants to stay competitive in a region that is increasingly adopting clean energy, we need better policies.”
“There are a lot of economic opportunities out there if we open ourselves to renewables.”
“Renewable energy sources tend to generate more jobs and that means more economic activity and more opportunities.”
“I think it’s great that the state is looking to get renewables to 40 percent, but I do think a more ambitious goal—something along the lines of 50 percent—also makes a lot of sense.”

The Senator, who is also the Deputy Majority Leader, made his comments during a February briefing call co-hosted by the two largest Local Chambers of Commerce in the state, Middlesex and Greater New Haven, in partnership with Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.

“These issues are really important to me and to our chamber,” said Garrett Sheehan, incoming President and CEO of the Greater New Haven Chamber. “They are going to take a collaborative approach, and a key step is education, which is something calls like this provide.”

“Bring your projects, we have capital”

There is plenty of money available to finance cost-saving clean energy upgrades, said the Connecticut Green Bank’s President Bryan Garcia.

“We are focused on driving and attracting more investment in clean energy because those are the foundations to economic growth and job creation,” Garcia said. One important tool for doing this is through a program known as Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy or C-PACE.

“C-PACE is an innovative and affordable way for businesses, manufacturing, and nonprofits to pay for clean energy improvements. It pays for 100 percent of the project costs with no money down,” said Garcia, adding: “It immediately increases cash flow while improving the overall value of the building.”

The Middlesex Chamber of Commerce recently teamed up with the Green Bank to bring C-PACE to its members. (Stay tuned for more information.)

“Energy is a critical issue to all our members and our Chamber, and we’re seeing C-PACE get more and more traction,” said Jeff Pugliese, Vice President of the Middlesex Chamber.

Sen. Winfield asked Local Chambers to voice their clean energy support to their legislators, saying:

“Chambers have a lot of influence in this building and have a lot of business owners who have influence. That influence should be used to express to legislators that clean energy funds will benefit the state of Connecticut.” He added, “It is not even a bipartisan issue, it is a nonpartisan issue.”

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) will continue to keep you informed as these issues move forward. If your chamber is interested in learning more about how your members can benefit from C-PACE financing, contact Jessica Bergman of CICE at Jessica@ChambersforInnovation.com.

Chambers for Innovation 2/5/18 Chambers for Innovation 2/5/18

“We have an opportunity to attract new jobs and investment in our region with clean energy,” says Chamber CEO

“We have an opportunity to attract new jobs and investment in our region with clean energy, all while continuing to support our existing energy resources that have helped make Indiana County what it is today,” said Chamber of Commerce President James Struzzi II.

With three coal-fired electric generation plants in Indiana County, there is no question that coal, along with natural gas, has been an important driver of the local economy in this central western region of Pennsylvania.

But the economic leaders of Indiana County also know a good new opportunity when they see one—and that is why the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce and others are positioning the county to attract more renewable energy technologies.

James Struzzi II, Indiana County Chamber President & CEO

Struzzi is on the steering committee of a Sustainable Economic Development Task Force, spearheaded by the Indiana County Commissioner’s office, and sponsored by the Indiana County Economic Development team. The task force is working on an action plan to drive more renewable energy use in the County.

The Chamber is also helping to facilitate a 2018 Sustainable Economy Summit that that recognizes that clean vehicles, grid development, energy efficiency and battery storage are among the fastest growing industries in the country. And in Pennsylvania, renewable energy jobs are growing faster than jobs in fossil fuel.

Stay tuned!

Chambers for Innovation 2/5/18 Chambers for Innovation 2/5/18

Fayetteville Becomes Latest City to Commit to 100 Percent Clean Energy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chambers for Innovation 1/9/18 Chambers for Innovation 1/9/18

Ohio’s Local Chamber Leaders Share Story of Wind Benefits with State Legislators

Several local chamber, economic development leaders, and community officials traveled to the state capitol on multiple occasions in 2017 to share their front-line stories about the benefits of wind with state government leaders.

Local chamber, economic development, and community leaders traveled to the state capitol on multiple occasions in 2017 to share their front-line stories about the benefits of wind energy.

“Wind energy has been one of the biggest investments in Ohio and has the potential to contribute much more to Ohio’s future economic prosperity,” said Susan Munroe, President and CEO of the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce, home to the Blue Creek Wind Farm. “We want to work with legislators to encourage further investment and job growth created with wind energy development.”

Wind energy has resulted in investments of more than $775 million in Ohio. This new “cash crop” delivers significant tax benefits to schools and other institutions, income to landowners and local supply chain businesses while supporting county services in communities able to host these wind farms.

In 2014, however, the Ohio legislature tripled the setback provisions, which determine how far a wind turbine must be situated from the nearest property line—resulting in a near moratorium on wind farm development and investment.

In one example of the economic benefits of wind investments: Iberdrola Renewables is, by far, the single largest taxpayer in Van Wert County. It contributes more than $2 million a year in tax payments, and nearly as much to the country’s landowners who allow wind turbines to be placed on their property.

Much of the tax money benefits local schools, which at least one superintendent (Jeff Synder of Lincolnview) has called a “godsend.”

Meanwhile, major corporations such as Amazon have recently announced increased demand for wind energy to power their data centers in the state.

And, in 2015, the Toledo-based Owens Corning signed the largest wind power purchase agreement by an industrial company in the world—though it must source wind energy from Texas.

Munroe and Seneca County Commissioner Shayne Thomas recently addressed the Senate Finance Committee and the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to describe the value that tax base increases, property owner payments, and increased economic activity deliver to their economies when utility scale wind farms are constructed. Read their testimony here and here.

Pictured at top from left to right: Tom Bullock, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy; Jim Hoops, Northwest State Community College; Peggy Emerson, President & CEO Paulding Chamber of Commerce; Susan Munroe, President & CEO Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce; Senate President Larry Obhof; Jeff Snyder, Superintendent, Lincolnview Schools, Van Wert County; David Zak, President & CEO Seneca Industrial & Economic Development Corp.

Chambers for Innovation 12/20/17 Chambers for Innovation 12/20/17

Lancaster Chamber Praises New PA Legislation That Keeps Solar Jobs in State, Offers $30 Million in Grants for Businesses

“The Lancaster Chamber applauds the bi-partisan efforts to support Pennsylvania’s manufacturing and solar deployment,” said Tom Baldrige, the Chamber’s President & CEO. “Several of our member companies will benefit from the new law and the $30 million for the Solar Energy Program. We hope to attract more solar manufacturing and development in the state and in our county,” he added.

In an effort to help develop and maintain solar jobs and manufacturing in Pennsylvania, new bipartisan legislation was recently passed and signed into law to do just that. Act 40 is designed to keep solar energy jobs within the Keystone State instead of sourcing them to neighboring states, as has been practice in recent years.

Additionally, $30 million in grants and loans is now available through the Solar Energy Program (SEP) to businesses that manufacture solar equipment, or generate or distribute solar power. The goal is to support Pennsylvania’s efforts to strengthen its position in the clean energy space.

“The Solar Energy Program is vital in our efforts to make Pennsylvania a leader in clean energy,” Governor Wolf said. “Developing new renewable energy sources including solar is critical to ensuring Pennsylvania has a balanced and diverse energy mix that maintains our position as a major energy producing state.”

Many local Pennsylvania chamber member businesses can benefit from the SEP as it provides financial assistance in the form of grant and loan funds to promote the use of solar energy in Pennsylvania.

Tom Baldrige, President & CEO, Lancaster Chamber

Home to over 1,400 solar installations, Lancaster County is sure to benefit from the SEP funds. The Lancaster Chamber, representing nearly 2,000 businesses, has applauded the new program.

A recently-released clean energy jobs report revealed that there are nearly 70,000 jobs in solar, wind and energy efficiency across Pennsylvania, with Lancaster snagging a spot in the top 10 counties boasting 3,100 jobs.

If your member companies are interested in applying for a SEP loan or grant they can visit the PA Dept. of Community and Economic Development page.

NC Chambers Say Wind, Solar Energy Are Critical to Rural Region

Four local chambers of commerce called on North Carolina’s General Assembly leadership last month to support the booming clean energy industry that represents some of the best economic news to reach the Northeastern part of the state in a long time.

“This renewable energy economy is thriving and is critical to our region, and we respectfully ask for your assistance in keeping these projects alive and thriving,” the Presidents and Executives of the Edenton-Chowan, Elizabeth City Area, Currituck, and Windsor-Bertie Chamber of Commerce wrote.

The state’s first utility-scale wind farm, the $400 million Amazon Wind Farm US East, is already the largest taxpayer in Perquimans and Pasquotank Counties. And Summit Farm Solar, one of nation’s largest solar projects, created more than 1,000 jobs during construction, supporting local economies across the region.

These mostly rural counties that include some of the state’s most economically challenged areas have struggled for decades to attract new jobs, business opportunities, and business investments.

Now, wind and solar energy are booming in their region, the chamber leaders wrote in a letter to Sen. Phil Berger, President Pro Tempore of the N.C. Senate and Rep. Tim Moore, Speaker of the N.C. House of Representatives.

“We hope you will stand with us in support of the clean energy industry and foster its ongoing growth and expansion, allowing our region and state to reap the economic benefits,” they wrote.

To date, North Carolina’s clean energy industry has generated nearly $9 billion in investment, saved money for businesses and families, driven down costs of renewable energy and energy efficiency technology, and helped maintain clean air and water.

Read the letter from four chambers here.

Save the Date: February 8, 2018

Join the Currituck Chamber and local businesses for a panel discussion with leading energy experts to learn more about the renewable energy industry and how solar and wind energies are spurring economic growth North Carolina.

When: Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018

Where: The Currituck Chamber of Commerce

More information to come.

Chambers for Innovation 12/13/17 Chambers for Innovation 12/13/17

Greater Memphis Chamber Seizes “Clean” as an Opportunity for Business Growth, Cost Savings

Since 2014, the 2,200-member organization has taken the lead in an initiative known as “Memphis Clean by 2019” in partnership with the non-profit, Clean Memphis, which has a goal of making Memphis the cleanest city in the nation.

The Greater Memphis Chamber is no stranger to creating a brighter, cleaner future.

More recently, after Amazon—one of the world’s top renewable energy purchasers—announced that they were accepting proposals for a new $5 billion headquarters, Memphis jumped at the opportunity to apply.

And, increasingly, the Chamber is working to help member businesses save money through energy innovation.

Phil Trenary, President & CEO, Greater Memphis Chamber

“At the Greater Memphis Chamber, we have a commitment to economic growth for all,” said Phil Trenary, President and CEO. “And we recognize that the growing opportunities in clean energy are an important part of that mix for our members.”

One way they have done this, for example, is by working closely with the local utility, Memphis Light, Gas and Water, to promote energy workshops for member companies to learn how they can make their workspaces more energy efficient.

One well-known member company, IKEA, also recently installed the largest solar panel array in state of Tennessee. Companywide, IKEA plans to invest $2.5 billion in renewable energy by 2020, reflecting growing corporate demand for clean energy across the nation.

With the work being done to seize the economic development opportunities in renewables by the Memphis, Bartlett and Chattanooga Chambers, Tennessee could soon be a hub for clean energy development in the South.