Chamber Power Line: Volume 3 October 2021

Chambers in Action  Stories of leadership by chambers of commerce across the country

Tampa Bay Chamber and Business Leaders Discuss Resilience, Electric Vehicles and Clean Energy with State Senators

Chamber of commerce executives and their member businesses participated in a dialogue recapping bills related to resilience, EV infrastructure, and clean energy in Florida.  “Why is the Tampa Bay Chamber interested in clean energy and climate resilience? Quite simply, we view the ideas of sustainability and resiliency as issues related to our region’s overall competitiveness,” Nicolas Glover, vice president of advocacy for the Tampa Bay Chamber. Read more here

Chambers, Businesses, and City Leaders Prioritize Arizona's Need for Federal Infrastructure Investment

CICE, in partnership with Arizona Forward and the City of Tempe Office of Sustainability, led a three-part series of workshops with Arizona chambers, businesses, community leaders and congressional staff about the priorities for Arizona regarding infrastructure needs, especially as they relate to clean energy and sustainability investments.  Read more here

Senator Tillis, NC Chambers, and Industry Leaders Drive Home Leadership Opportunities in EV Innovation

U.S. Senator Thom Tillis, North Carolina chambers of commerce, economic development executives, and industry leaders recently gathered for a dialogue on what’s at stake for NC electrification industry via a webinar hosted by Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) and Conservatives for Clean Energy.  Read more here

How to Navigate and Lead in Clean Energy and Climate Discussions

During this year’s ACCE Annual Chamber Innovation Summit, CICE was pleased to host a webinar featuring three chamber executives from across the country who spoke about leadership in clean energy and climate discussions. The panel featured: Jose Becerio, Sr. Manager, Global Energy 2.0, Greater Houston Partnership Nic Glover, Vice President of Advocacy, Tampa Chamber Ann Silver, President and CEO, Reno + Sparks Chamber  "This is must reading for every chamber leader looking to engage in the rapidly growing opportunities associated with clean energy policy and development."  Read more here

Wilmington Chamber Honors Cape Fear Solar Systems with Top Pick at Coastal Entrepreneur Awards

The Wilmington Chamber of Commerce awarded Cape Fear Solar Systems with their Entrepreneur of the Year Award.   “We presented the award to Cape Fear Solar to recognize their entrepreneurial spirit and fantastic growth in recent years...” Natalie Haskins English, president and CEO of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. Read more here

Full Chambers in Action Archive

If you are interested in co-branding the report, CICE would be happy to customize a copy with your logo included. Contact us to learn more. CICE: Colorado Clean Energy Jobs and Economic Impact Report- 2021 CICE: West Virginia Clean Energy Jobs and Economic Impact Report- 2021 CICE: Florida Clean Energy Jobs and Economic Impact Report- 2021 CICE: Kentucky Utility Scale Solar Economic Impacts Primer- 2021 CICE: Miami Carbon Competitiveness Report- 2021 Business Sign On Letter in Support of Infrastructure and Clean Energy Investments (Have you signed yet? Feel free to forward to members you think might want to sign.)

$1 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, including: grid modernization, EV charging stations, and expanding clean energy projects NC Looks to Pass Sweeping New Energy Legislation  President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT writes on the importance of the Transportation and Climate Initiative  U.S. Chamber Coalition Letter on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework Gov. DeWine signs Senate Bill 52 giving counties control over large wind and solar projects Offshore Wind Market Report: 2021 Edition Released Nearly Half of U.S. Power Could Come From Solar By 2050 Strategic Pause on 3.5T Bill?

CICE: First Solar Tour and Forum on Navigating Utility-Scale Solar, Misinformation and Local Conflict  Friday, October 8, 10:30 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. ET (in-person at First Solar, Perrysburg, OH) A deep dive into North America's largest manufacturer of photovoltaic solar modules, and how chamber and economic development leaders can best navigate and lead through local conflict. RSVP Here

North Carolina Offshore Wind Chamber of Commerce Summit Wednesday, October 27, 10:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. ET An overview of the current status of OSW development in NC and the east coast, as well as job creation, supply chain opportunities, workforce training and the role chambers play in it all. RSVP Here

Past Event Recordings and Recaps CICE: Revving Up Transportation Electrification in North Carolina Remarks from U.S. Senator Thom Tillis as well as area chambers and industry leaders all welcoming and sharing the opportunity transportation electrification has for NC businesses and communities. CICE: Florida Chamber Discussion: Climate Risk and Rising Insurance Rates A panel of industry leaders discussed the connection between climate risk and rising insurance rates, while honing in on resiliency legislation in the state. CICE: A Dialogue with Senator Manchin's ENR Staff Building economic and job growth in West Virginia CICE: The Sequence of Utility Scale Solar Development in Ohio A look at key project development timelines at the local level and the state permitting timeline for utility-scale solar development. CICE Partner Event: Road to Zero-Emission Trucks: Fleets & Shippers Environmental initiatives and proposed regulations are steering small and large fleet and freight shippers toward zero-emissions replacements for their diesel-powered trucks. CICE Partner Event: Walmart & Siemens Discuss Decarbonizing Florida's Economy Learn about the bold steps these companies are taking to eliminate their respective carbon footprints and how those actions are both good for business and good for the communities they call home The Future of Global Energy: Houston’s Role in Leading the Energy Transition Presented by Chevron Day 1, in particular, Houston has Opportunity and Responsibility to Lead is enlightening for any chamber executive involved in energy policy. The Transportation and Climate Initiative: Opportunities for Decarbonizing Transportation in Connecticut Business leaders and health experts shared their perspectives on how TCI-P can support CT's transition to a clean, modern transportation systems while creating local jobs, improving public health, and helping companies stay competitive.

Ford Announcement is a Giant Leap Toward Clean Made-In-America Electric Vehicles Tampa Bay Chamber VP of Advocacy writes about the importance of clean energy in the business community Mayors launch 'Race to Zero' campaign at Florida Climate Week New 155-acre solar panel field in western Flagler Three Charts that Show the Energy Transition in 50 States Ohio Climate Justice Fund partners with Energy Foundation Addressing Environmental Justice As Part Of ESG Initiatives Electric trucks and buses may be approaching cost parity with their fossil-fueled counterparts CICE's Susan Munroe discusses business principles for N.C.’s energy market New report projects Senate proposals would give WV economy energy boost First Solar Breaks Ground on new $680m, 3.3 GW Ohio Manufacturing Facility The U.S. added more new energy capacity from wind than any other source last year Startup Claims Breakthrough in Long-Duration Batteries Facebook to build clean-energy powered data center in Mesa Biden, airlines strike deal to slash carbon emissions

If you'd like to submit content for this newsletter or have questions for our team of clean energy experts, please email us at cicecoordinator@chambersforinnovation.com.

Chamber Power Line: Volume 2 June 2021

The Chamber Power Line highlights chambers and chamber professionals for their innovation and clean energy leadership. This email also seeks to keep chamber and economic development professionals up to date on federal and state policy regarding clean energy and climate action, events of interest, and significant clean energy news.

Chambers in Action- Stories of leadership by chambers of commerce across the country

CIA: OH Chambers and ED Oppose State Efforts to Thwart Massive Solar Investment; CICE Welcomes Isaac Lee

Ohio has an opportunity to capture more than $18 billion of investment from utility scale solar developments. If realized, that would land Ohio as the state with the 3rd highest solar investment pipeline.  Chambers and economic development professionals are rallying against legislation that would limit this investment Anti- business and property rights legislation, House Bill 118 and Senate Bill 52, create a slippery slope by removing certainty for developers of any kind in the future Read more here

CIA: MA Speaker Mariano Unveils plans to invest big in the offshore wind industry at Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Event

MA House Speaker, Ron Mariano, unveiled a major financial plan to turn the South Coast into “a hub of wind energy for the region”. The House plans to give $10 million to prioritize job training programs that prepare workers for offshore wind construction Marino pledged to put forth a bond bill to invest in port infrastructure that can serve the offshore wind industry Read more here

CIA: The Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce – working with the community to build an innovative business hub with rapidly expanding electrified transportation

Lake Nona, referred to as “a community of the future”, is being developed and designed with sustainability, health, and business innovation as top priorities. Chamber supports their municipal utility‘s efforts to make Lake Nona a hub for more grounded electric vehicle innovation The Chamber is also working with BEEP, a local company providing an electric, autonomous vehicle shuttle service   Read the full story here

CIA: Lawton/Fort Sill (OK) Economic Development Announces 300 new jobs and new HQ for wind energy company

Carter Wind Turbines selected Lawton, OK as the site of its new wind energy company This is the largest economic development announcement the community had seen in 20 years Along with the new headquarters, the company plans to hire 300 employees over the next 5 years and initially invest $10 million Read the full story here

CIA: Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT: Offshore Wind Energy Forum Explores Clean Energy Economic Opportunities

More than one hundred business executives joined the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut for a virtual forum that examined opportunities and impacts of offshore wind for the region. Read the full story here

Full Chambers in Action Archive

Biden administration grants Vineyard Wind its final major permit Commentary: To meet climate goals, N.C. needs a new generation of energy policies VA Congresswoman Luria launches Congressional Offshore Wind Caucus Here’s how Republican Utah can lead out on clean energy and bring real change A bi-partisan compromise might very well be in sight Biden’s American Jobs Plan is a plan for prosperity in Arizona Electric grid sale presents rare opportunity for RI, clean energy advocates say Unanimous, bipartisan passage of climate change legislation in Florida U.S. Rep. Gimenez (R-FL): Address climate change or risk more storm damage, high insurance rates, & lower property values

Transportation Electrification Webinar with Senator Tillis Thursday, June 24 9:00 am ET CICE and Conservatives for Clean Energy are hosting three leading companies - Hitachi-ABB, Eaton and Trane which have chosen North Carolina to invest in and manufacture their electric vehicle technologies. They'll discuss why it’s important for North Carolina and U.S. to take the lead in advancing this innovative industry. Featured remarks by U.S. Senator Thom Tillis RSVP Here The Future of Global Energy June 29 - July 1 The Greater Houston Partnership and Center for Houston's Future will host a three-day conference exploring how the Energy Capital of the World will drive new industrial innovation. A chance to showcase Houston's position in leading the global energy transition to a low carbon future. Learn More + RSVP Here

Past Event Recordings and Recaps CICE: 2021 Legislative Briefing Co-hosted by the Tampa Bay Chamber with Senator Brandes and Senator Brodeur  Power a Clean Future Ohio Clean Energy Summit: Local Solutions to a Global Challenge Local, Equitable Climate Solutions Clean Energy in Your City's Budget Marquee Event 

Biden floors electric Ford truck in test drive as he pushes infrastructure plan A renewable energy breakthrough Clean Jobs America 2021 - report produced by Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2) World’s largest offshore wind farm developer to recover, reuse or recycle turbine blades The ESG Opportunity for Nonprofits: It Starts with Looking in the Mirror Pathways to Build Back Better: Jobs from Investing in Clean Electricity Renewable Energy Growth Rate Up 45% Worldwide In 2020 5 Graphics that Explain Clean Energy Jobs in Rural America

If you'd like to submit content for this newsletter or have questions for our team of clean energy experts, please email us at cicecoordinator@chambersforinnovation.com.

News Release: Miami Carbon Competitiveness

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Miami-Area’s Slow Pace Toward Renewable Energy Threatens Its Economic Future

Report Outlines Link Between Economic Competitiveness and the Region’s Efforts to Combat Climate Change

June 1, 2021 – Miami, FL – The Miami-area has received widespread attention over the past several months for its creative, ambitious courting of technology companies and its ongoing efforts to transform the “Magic City” and surrounding areas into a premier global innovation hub.

But, the transformation to a new “Silicon Beach” could be slowed or derailed because the carbon reduction commitments by the region’s largest utility are falling dramatically short of the cities that Miami is competing against for jobs, talent, investment, and employers. A lack of carbon reduction commitments and slower pace toward renewable energy could severely handicap Miami’s vision for its technology economy and all of its associated community benefits.

A new study commissioned by Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy identifies weaknesses in the regional utility’s (Florida Power and Light) energy policies that could make Miami less attractive as a venue for businesses that are decarbonizing their operations. The report compares the Miami region to six other metropolitan areas in the Southeast United States.

“This study illustrates how companies of all sizes are increasingly factoring in climate considerations and carbon reduction measures into their business decisions, including the communities they seek to call home or expand in,” said Ryan Evans, Executive Director of Chambers of Innovation and Clean Energy. “Cities that are not aggressively pursuing a reduction of their carbon emissions are going to be at an economic disadvantage.”

The Miami Carbon Competitiveness Study analyzes three questions to assess how the sources of electric power in the Miami area may affect the city’s competitive position for attracting new businesses:

• Are Fortune 500 companies increasingly prioritizing climate and clean energy factors into their economic development decisions?

• How do the climate and renewable electricity plans of the Miami-area grid compare to the plans of power providers for six similarly sized cities with whom Miami competes for new businesses (competitor cities)?

• To what extent will the electricity generation plans for the Miami-area make it less attractive as companies consider expanding, relocating, or siting new facilities?

The study found that corporations are not only increasingly looking to procure renewable and lower zero-carbon electricity, but that they are also stepping up their efforts to focus investment and new facilities in areas that offer those electricity resources and have made community-wide commitments to achieving carbon neutrality.

The full report can be accessed here.

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Chamber Power Line: Volume 1 March 2021

Chambers in Action (CIA) is a monthly newsletter highlighting chambers and chamber professionals for their innovation and clean energy leadership. This email also seeks to keep you up to date on federal and state policy regarding clean energy and climate action, events of interest, and significant clean energy news.

CIA: Strong City/Chamber Partnership Lands Chattanooga on World Economic Forum Working Group

“We are honored to be among the 36 global cities, and one of only two U.S. cities, selected to pioneer the G20 Smart Cities Global Alliance’s policy roadmap. We began our smart city work a decade ago when EPB launched its community-wide fiber network and have been working to become a leader in this space ever since. This project is an important next step in our smart city journey as we build upon the groundwork we’ve laid and prepare Chattanooga for a smarter, stronger future,” said Christy Gillenwater, President and CEO, Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce.   Read more here

CIA: Seattle Southside Chamber Talks Sustainability and Profitability With Business Community

Southside Seattle Chamber of Commerce is taking the lead in connecting the opportunity for area businesses to improve their bottom line while also reducing their carbon footprint. The chamber presented its first Pacific Northwest (PNW) Sustainability Summit on January 27 to kick off the chamber's 2021 Summit Series. The summit brought together subject matter experts, industry leaders, business owners, and community members who provided insight into the relationship between area businesses and the environment   You can watch the webinar here

CIA: Boulder Chamber Leads the Passage of Utility Partnership for Cleaner Energy, Hosts Briefing with Senatorial Staff

This past November, Boulder voters decided to move forward in partnership with Xcel Energy to meet critical carbon reduction and clean energy goals, investments in energy reliability and public safety.   Key points: ·       The Chamber has encouraged the City and Xcel Energy to collaborate to achieve their climate protection and clean energy goals. ·       Following, this successful venture, the Chamber briefed US Senator Bennet on the partnership and discuss federal clean energy/climate policy     Read the full story here

Full Chambers in Action Archive

Top oil and gas lobbying group close to backing a carbon tax   Why a Texas-style grid meltdown could become less likely in Denver as Xcel embraces more renewables   Texas leaders failed to heed warnings that left the state's power grid vulnerable to winter extremes, experts say   SEC takes steps towards climate related disclosure   DeSantis calls for $1 billion to brace for climate change   Manchin, Stabenow Unveil Bill to Incentivize Domestic Manufacturing and Reinvestment in Rural America    Ohio Chamber of Commerce Addresses Overly Burdensome Solar and Wind Referendum

Working Together to Advance Clean Energy in North Carolina: A Workshop for Businesses, Chambers and Lawmakers   Friday, March 12 from 1-2:00 pm Intimate workshop designed to advance clean energy and related economic opportunities with chambers, lawmakers and businesses Featured remarks by Nestle, policy makers, and others TBA RSVP Here

Virtual Forum: Offshore Wind Energy   Thursday, March 18 from 9:45 AM-1:00 pm Industry experts lead an exploration of offshore wind energy, including economic development on and off the water, investments in local infrastructure, and workforce expansion and planning. Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut RSVP Here

Past Event Recordings and Recaps   CICE: The Role of Clean Energy in North Carolina’s Economy: Overview and Opportunities CICE: Florida Webinar on the Multi-Billion Dollar Electric Vehicle Industry and its Benefits for Local Businesses Politico: Thought Leaders Event - Communities in Transition - The Future of American Energy

Plug in America Top 25 States Supporting the EV Driver   General Motors to eliminate gasoline and diesel light-duty cars and SUVs by 2035   Ford Nearly Doubles Its Investment in Electric Vehicles   Biden vows to replace U.S. government fleet with electric vehicles   Offshore Wind Industry Offers Potential for New Jobs and Billions of Investment in North Carolina   Biden commits to doubling offshore wind

If you'd like to submit content for this newsletter or have questions for our team of clean energy experts, please email us at cicecoordinator@chambersforinnovation.com.