Arizona Chambers and Business Leaders Highlight Clean Energy Incentives in Roundtable with Rep. Ciscomani
On June 6, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE), in partnership with four area chambers of commerce/economic development groups hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06), bringing together Arizona business leaders to discuss the future of clean energy tax incentives.
The conversation focused on the economic importance of the clean energy tax credits, which are currently under review in the Senate. In late May, the House passed its version of the Budget Bill that eliminates most of the economic development support for clean energy. It is now in the hands of the Senate and will return to the House once revised.
Participants aimed to provide additional data and evidence on the jobs and investment at risk if these tax credits are repealed. Arizona’s 6th Congressional District is home to a growing clean energy economy, with significant momentum in solar energy, battery storage, and EV manufacturing—supported by supply chains in areas such as mining. These industries also drive indirect job growth, benefitting local restaurants, retail, and service businesses that support a thriving regional economy.
Rep. Ciscomani, whose district includes a fast-growing clean energy sector, acknowledges the impact of these credits on local economies. “The clean energy tax credits can accelerate everything from manufacturing to energy independence,” he said, encouraging attendees to continue providing data that demonstrates the positive economic impact of the sector.
Rob Elias, President of the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, shared input he is receiving from the business community. “Four things brought to us by our member businesses in regard to the clean energy tax credits include the boost to our economic competitiveness, reduced energy costs for families, grid reliability, and the protection of public health and the environment.”
Lucid Motors, one of the businesses represented at the roundtable, is creating 3,000 new manufacturing jobs in the Casa Grande area. Scott Matus, Manager of Public Policy, emphasized the urgency of maintaining U.S. leadership in the global economy. “We're in a global tech race right now. We need to compete with China, and I think everyone in Congress agrees with that notion. We need to win these sectors of the future, including transportation and energy.”
As Arizona continues to emerge as a hub for clean energy innovation, chamber leaders and business voices remain focused on the policies that support continued investment, job growth, and economic opportunity across the state.