Bastrop Regional Chamber (TX) Connects Businesses with New Economic Opportunities

How does a rural small town double its taxable value in less than a decade? Location, land availability, affordability, and access to major transportation hubs help. So do leaders like Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Becki Womble, who understand their community’s assets and approach economic development as a team sport. 

For Womble, energy investment is a clear example of that teamwork paying off. “Waterloo Solar created 300 construction jobs in the Bastrop area and is expected to deliver $2 million in annual economic benefits for decades. RWE Clean Energy is a great partner, and this project shows how communities across Texas share in the state’s energy growth,” she said.

Womble’s advice: Don't wait for clean energy projects or other investments to arrive before engaging the local government. She recommends connecting developers with regional business leaders, vendors, and workforce partners so they become part of the community. 

Companies recognize that Bastrop focuses on the future. The presence of SpaceX/Starlink, The Boring Company, which designs and builds underground tunnel systems, and Tesla’s nearby Gigafactory put this region on the map for advanced technology and manufacturing.

“Success also breeds success. Once innovative companies see other innovative companies choosing your region, it creates credibility,” said Womble. 

Learn more about how the Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce connects businesses with clean energy investments and other economic opportunities to prepare the community for growth.

Beep-Freebee Merger Fuels Florida's Economy

Clean Transportation Innovators Expand Through Chamber Involvement

Two leaders in autonomous and electric public transportation, Orlando-based Beep and Miami-based Freebee, merged in September, creating a national powerhouse in the industry.

The merger shows how investments in clean, innovative technologies can expand Florida’s economy and how chambers of commerce help them grow. After all, the combined company will operate in more than 60 communities, serve more than two million riders each year, and employ nearly 1,000 people. Its headquarters will be Lake Nona, a major innovation hub east of Orlando.

“The Beep and Freebee merger is a great example of the kind of growth we want to see coming out of the Lake Nona ecosystem,” said Ashley Loute, executive director of the Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Beep has built and tested innovative mobility solutions here in Lake Nona, and today that work is scaling into a company serving communities across the country.”

Shortly before announcing the merger, Beep closed another investment round, bringing total capital raised to about $130 million.

Loute added that when companies headquartered in Lake Nona attract investment, create jobs and expand their reach, it strengthens the community’s reputation as a place where innovation becomes a real-world impact.

Both companies are leading a shift in how local governments can reduce the use of diesel buses and other gas-fueled systems. 

Freebee shows another side of that transition by putting electric vehicles into public transportation systems people use every day. Beep demonstrates how communities use autonomous transportation to connect their population and commercial centers.

Together, the companies can now combine electric microtransit with autonomous technology at a much larger scale. With diesel costs skyrocketing, this is even more important today.

Since their inception, Beep and Freebee both have made local chambers part of their growth. Beep is a Business Builder member of the Lake Nona Regional Chamber, where co-founder Mark Reid serves on the board. It’s also a bronze member of the JAX Chamber in Jacksonville, another market where the company deploys its technology.

Freebee is a Trustee of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. In Miami Beach, Gus Doyle, Freebee’s business development executive, serves on the chamber’s board. In Seminole County, where Freebee operates the new all-electric SCOUT public transportation system, the company sponsors the Seminole County Chamber’s monthly Good Morning Seminole breakfast.

Clean energy and transportation companies have a lot to gain by joining their local chamber. Membership connects companies deploying new technologies with the businesses, local governments and community leaders who make decisions about economic development, infrastructure and growth.

Both companies have participated in CICE conversations with Florida chamber leaders. Racquel Asa, Beep’s then- chief marketing officer, joined a CICE clean energy panel at a Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) conference. She discussed autonomous transportation, electrification, and the workforce needed to support those technologies 

Freebee Vice President of Economic Development John Janusz spoke at a recent CICE panel discussion at FACP. He also participated in a CICE-moderated Seminole County Chamber discussion focused on SCOUT and how electric microtransit can expand transportation options.

In October, Lake Nona Regional Chamber members will get an even closer look when Beep hosts the Chamber’s Business After Hours at its Lake Nona headquarters, continuing its close ties with the chambers it supports.

Excellence in Clean Energy Leadership: Top Ten Chamber Stories of 2021

MA Speaker Mariano Unveils Plans to Invest Big in the Offshore Wind Industry at Boston Chamber Event

Massachusetts House Speaker, Ron Mariano, unveiled a plan to make major financial investments that will turn the South Coast into “a hub of wind energy for the region” at a recent virtual event with the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. Speaker Marino added that the House plans to give $10 million to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to prioritize job training programs that prepare workers for offshore wind construction.  Read the full CIA

OH Chambers and ED Oppose State Efforts to Thwart Massive Solar Investment

Ohio now 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.  Additionally, according to a recent survey, a clear majority of Ohio voters support solar development and welcome it in their community.  Read the full CIA

Tampa Bay Chamber VP of Advocacy Writes Op-Ed on Importance of Clean Energy in the Business Community

Clean energy and resilience have become integral measures of a region’s overall competitiveness. That’s a key reason for The Tampa Bay Chamber’s decision to include goals in its policy platform to advance them both and to engage the business community in supporting local action surrounding these priorities that are flexible, predictable, and durable. Read the full CIA

Chamber, Businesses, and City Leaders Prioritize Arizona's Needs for Federal Infrastructure Investment

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy, in partnership with Arizona Forward and the City of Tempe Office of Sustainability, led a three part series of workshops in June with Arizona business and community leaders. The workshops provided a forum for candid and detailed discussions with congressional staff about the priorities for Arizona regarding infrastructure needs, especially as they relate to clean energy and sustainability investments.  Read the full CIA

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 gathered for a dialogue on what’s at stake for the state’s electrification industry. “It is exciting to see the progress we’re making in the area of renewable energy, and to see the opportunities that we have in the United States to be an innovator and a leader particularly when talking about medium to heavy duty electric vehicles,” said Senator Tillis.  Read the full CIA

How to Navigate and Lead in Clean Energy and Climate Discussions

Chambers of commerce and economic development organizations are claiming their seat at the table when it comes to clean energy policy, resilience, and climate discussions. Clean energy and climate are everyday conversations in the business and policy world. With solar and wind energy becoming the cheapest form of new electric generation, and 70 percent of Fortune 100 companies setting clean energy goals, the transition to sustainable energy is undeniable. Read the full CIA

Ohio Chambers Tour North America's Largest Solar Manufacturer and Discuss the Future of Solar in their Communities

In light of $18 billion economic investment on the line in the state with utility scale solar development, Ohio chamber of commerce and economic development leaders are eager to learn how they can support this opportunity in their counties. Many of these chamber leaders and other economic leaders gathered recently at First Solar in Perrysburg, the largest solar module manufacturer in the Western hemisphere to participate in a conversation on how to best navigate conflict with utility-scale solar development.  Read the full CIA

The Clean Energy Economy Bodes Well for AZ Jobs & Economic Growth

Chambers and business leaders discuss the opportunities associated with Arizona investing in a clean energy economy, the bipartisan infrastructure bill, and other federal policies that could positively impact the state. Representative Greg Stanton (D-AZ) opened the session by providing an overview of the proposed infrastructure bills in Congress and the effects climate change is playing on our economy and quality of life, saying “Arizona, and our entire nation needs to invest in infrastructure.”  Read the full CIA

NC Chamber Leaders Gather to Learn About the Offshore Wind Industry and the Opportunities it Holds

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy hosted its first-ever Chamber of Commerce North Carolina Offshore Wind Summit on Friday October 27 in Wilmington, NC, a hot spot area for offshore wind development. Chamber and economic development leaders heard from experts in the industry and saw firsthand the $109 billion economic potential of offshore wind (OSW) through supply chain opportunities and development off the coast. Read the full CIA

Chamber Led Study Recommends CT Step Up its Offshore Wind Game

“The report highlights the economic opportunities available and our advantages in attracting those opportunities, and challenges that can keep the state from realizing the maximum potential offered by offshore wind power,” says The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut President and CEO, Tony Sheridan.  Read the full CIA

If you would like to learn more about navigating clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Ryan Evans.

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Chambers in Action: NC chamber and economic development leaders look to clean energy to help rebuild economy

Outer Banks Chamber Ready to Welcome the $70 Billion Offshore Wind Industry to the Region

Just prior to the state shutdown due to COVID-19, close to 100 gathered from the Outer Banks region including N.C. Sen. Bob Steinburg, N.C Rep. Bobby Hanig, other elected officials of Dare and Currituck counties, as well as the Currituck Chamber of Commerce and Currituck County Economic Development at the Outer Banks Chamber “Keep It Clean” Economic Summit held prior to COVID-19 gathering restrictions. Guests were presented with a clear message that the Outer Banks Chamber supports clean energy development, including offshore wind as they work to create a stronger, more diversified and more sustainable economy. “The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce has been a proponent of clean energy since 2013,” shared Karen Brown, Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce President and CEO. “Our community understands the importance of our environment and the role it plays in our economic success. Off-shore and on-shore wind projects as well as solar projects are important to our region and the health of our economy.”

Chamber members and community leaders at the Economic Summit listened intently to speakers discuss the economic opportunities that will come with Avangrid Renewable’s 2000+ MW Kitty Hawk Offshore Wind project, slated for development more than 27 miles off the coast of Corolla. Opportunities previewed include up to 500 new jobs, millions in local investment including increased ecological and fishing tourism based on offshore wind development off of Rhode Island. See “Why North Carolina” box for the advantages that the state delivers for the offshore wind industry.  “Each day, we move closer to welcoming this billion dollar industry to our area and those companies who will support the offshore wind industry,” stated Tim Beacham, Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce Divisional Vice Chair - Economic Sustainability. “As the chamber strives to encourage economic resiliency, offshore wind is perhaps is one of the greatest opportunities that our community will have while protecting our beautiful environment at the same time.”

The industry also includes the opportunity for more than $70 billion in supply chain manufacturing across the east coast. North Carolina is now working with existing manufacturers in the state to expand their product lines and is also recruiting international offshore wind companies to move their operations to the northeastern area of the state, close to project development areas. See these links for more about the impressive economic potential for offshore wind in North Carolina:  Currituck County Economic Development Offshore Supply Chain and Infographic Outer Banks Chamber Offshore Wind Letter to the Editor Avangrid Renewables Kitty Hawk Offshore Wind Project Overview If you would like to learn more about the economic benefits of clean energy and/or offshore wind, please contact: Susan Munroe Director of Economic Development 419.203.1566 susan@chambersforinnovation.com

Photo Above: Elected officials, state and regional chamber and economic development leaders at the economic summit (from left): Josh Bass, Currituck Chamber of Commerce President; NC Sen. Bob Steinburg; Tim Beacham, Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce Divisional Vice Chair - Economic Sustainability; Larry Lombardi, Currituck County Economic Development Director; NC Rep. Bobby Hanig; Susan Munroe, CICE Director of Economic Development; Chris Chung, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina Executive Director; Karen Brown, Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.  Infographic above courtesy of the Currituck Chamber of Commerce.

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Massachusetts Chamber Leaders Briefed on Top 2020 Issues: Transportation, Resiliency, and Reliability

CICE’s Annual Policy Briefing on Top 2020 Issues:

Transportation, Resiliency, and Reliability

Last week over 60 Chamber Executives from across Massachusetts participated in CICE’s annual policy briefing hosted by the Greater Boston, Worcester Regional and Cape Cod Chambers of Commerce. The briefing call featured State Senator Marc Pacheco, Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and the Environment Kathleen Theoharides, and Clean Energy Expert and former State Representative Dan Bosley all of whom spoke with local chamber executives and businesses about the state’s clean energy priorities and the potential impacts to local economic development, job creation, transportation and resiliency.

MA State Senator, Marc Pacheco

Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and the Environment, Kathleen Theoharides

Former State Representative, Dan Bosley

Senator Pacheco spoke about the bi-partisan commitment to help the Commonwealth become net zero by 2050, praised the pledge made in the Governor’s State of the State, and addressed the comprehensive climate legislation that passed the Senate in January. Of particular interest, he discussed Department of Public Utilities (DPU) oversight which will focus on utility reliability, affordability, public safety, cyber security, and GHG reductions. Senator Pacheco also talked about increased oversight of Mass Save which is set to prioritize the expansion of programs with the most potential for energy savings, including commercial and industrial. Additionally, the senator touched on new renewable energy pilots, electrification of public transit, appliance standards, and low income solar mentioned in the Senate’s legislation. To learn more about the state Senate’s climate legislation check out WBUR and Boston Globe articles.

Secretary Theoharides spoke about transportation challenges in the Commonwealth, the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI), and the administration’s clean energy priorities. Specifically, she outlined the impact TCI will have on transportation infrastructure and electrification as well as Massachusetts’ commitment to the regional initiative which is expected to reduce emissions and also generate revenue for needed infrastructure updates. Massachusetts aims to be a leader, with Theoharides sharing “We will be updating our targets and plans to incorporate the Governor’s new net zero goal. We not only want to attain the targets but also model best practices and solutions.”

Clean energy expert and former Representative, Dan Bosley, addressed the Greenworks bill that passed the House last year. Greenworks offers $1 billion for cities and towns to use for climate adaptation and recognizes the importance of resiliency. Said Bosley, “Greenworks can help address climate and business impacts, and businesses will face higher costs unless we do something about climate change. The good news is that people are doing something about it, and this resiliency bill, if spent well, could lead to innovation that results in significant economic growth.”

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In addition to the policy experts, the chamber co-hosts shared their respective clean energy priorities:

“We focus a lot on environmental stewardship at home and in businesses. As a chamber, we want to increase clean energy jobs (which we believe is critical to economic development and resiliency); expand our local transportation infrastructure (which will reduce congestion, emissions, and improve our economy); and work with utilities and state agencies to address the challenges faced by our businesses.”

-Tim Murray

Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce

“Offshore wind remains an important issue for us as it puts us at the forefront of this exciting clean energy industry. This year we hosted the Cape’s first EV Car Show, supported a pilot program for large energy storage sites in more remote areas, advocated for improved public transportation, and our board members are asking us to be more engaged in climate action and resiliency.” 

-Wendy Northcross,

Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce

“We think about climate change in four categories: the clean energy industry and growth of jobs; the broader responsibility the business community has for climate readiness; how we adapt and respond knowing there are tradeoffs and costs of implementing tactics for alleviating climate change into our operations; and lastly the connectedness between these and other climate related issues like transportation/congestion and housing.”

-Jim Rooney

Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Reveals Transportation Study Results

Transportation Study Identifies Electric Vehicles As Key To Growth

Amidst Industry experts, municipal leaders, and utility executives, Fairfield Chamber of Commerce President, Beverly Balaz, shared her experience and members’ opinions on electric vehicles and clean transportation at the annual Regional Conference on Sustainable Development at Fairfield University.

Specifically, the study commissioned by the town of Fairfield captured the regional business community’s perspective on transportation issues in Connecticut and the role of electric vehicles in the future transportation system. “Transportation is continually one of the most important issues for business leaders everywhere,” said Balaz. “Participating in this study was not only important to our members, but having solid data on transportation and electric vehicle infrastructure will be invaluable as we plan for the future in Connecticut.” For Balaz, the survey results were unsurprising. The survey identified three key components: the need for fast charge charging stations, reliability of range with EV’s, and increasing the impetus to purchase EV’s.

Fairfield's Chamber of Commerce President Beverly Balaz speaks during Live Green's 2019 Regional Conference on Sustainable Development: Electric Vehicle Deployment

Among the topics discussed at this year’s conference were business’ role in workplace charging, the benefits and importance of charging stations, electric vehicle readiness planning, reliability, expected EV growth statewide, fleet deployment, infrastructure, and Connecticut’s plans for future growth in the clean transportation space.

Blackstone Valley Chamber Tackles Workforce Skills Gap and Sustainability with Innovative Educational Programming

Located in the historic Linwood Mill, which is geothermal, the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce (BVCC) is definitely walking the walk when it comes to innovation and clean energy.

BVCC was just selected as one of 5 local and state chambers across the country to receive an Economic Development grant from the US Chamber of Commerce. The grant allows the Chamber to implement a work-based learning program to help the local community address the talent gap. BVCC is now creating a Career Readiness Lab in the Chamber's new BV Ed Hub located in the mill which includes renewable energy tech training and a state of the art makers space. The innovative program is set to serve 10 local high school districts with employer led training designed to help fill the skills gap/ needs of the local workforce.

"We are really excited to be the home of the Career Readiness Lab," said President and CEO of the BVCC Jeannie Hebert. "We are so glad to be able to help the students in our communities be prepared for the working world. It is a wonderful opportunity for the Blackstone Valley to develop workforce training programs alongside our manufactures."

Jeannie Hebert, President and CEO of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce

During a recent meeting with Energy and Environment Secretary Matt Beaton, Jeannie Herbert asked how the Baker Administration was thinking about workforce readiness for the Bay State. Secretary Beaton said,  "the state had educational programs and public-private partnerships on workforce readiness." He said, "that a partnership with chambers would be welcome."  

Jeannie Hebert also stated that local chambers throughout the country are uniquely positioned to help fill the clean energy talent gap and economic development needs of their communities. "We all want our communities to be engaged in the clean economy future. To make this happen, we must make address workforce readiness. I'm happy to share how we do this in our community with all local chambers and economic development professionals."

To learn more about this initiative read here

MA Chambers Get High-Powered Briefing from Energy Secretary Matt Beaton and State Senator Marc Pacheco

Lots of information was shared on the recent briefing call with MA policymakers, here's a re-cap:

A large group of Chamber Executives and member companies from across Massachusetts joined our recent briefing call co-hosted by the Greater Boston and Worcester Regional Chambers of Commerce. On the call, Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and Environment Matt Beaton and State Senator Marc Pacheco talked with local chambers and member companies about the Commonwealth's priorities for economic development, clean energy, resilient communities, transportation infrastructure, and workforce readiness.

Sec. Matthew Beaton, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs

Secretary Beaton told local chambers about the Administration's participation in the 9-state regional Transportation and Climate Initiative. He emphasized that "the Commonwealth is proud to partner with Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states to explore a program to protect the health of our residents and build a more resilient and sustainable transportation system for the next generation." To learn more please see  Resilient Transportation System 

Sen. Marc Pacheco (D-Taunton)

Senator Marc Pacheco unveiled his bi-partisan renewable energy bill An Act to Secure a Clean Energy Future (SD 757). This bi-partisan bill calls for expanding offshore wind; Increasing the growth of renewable energy to 3% per year which will put MA on track for 50% renewable energy by 2030; doubling the state's target for energy storage; more and better rebates for electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charges; and allowing homeowners that have installed solar panels to sell their excess electric power back to the grid (via credits on their bill) without penalty (this is referred to as net-metering). To learn more about SD 757 see Commonwealth Magazine and MA Bills

Resilient Communities - Supported by Governor, Legislators, and Local Chambers

We also learned that there is a lot of support for helping communities become more resilient as they experience more extreme weather events.

We heard about a new proposal by MA House Speaker Robert DeLeo called the  GreenWorks Resilient Communities Investment Plan to fund community efforts to install solar grids, electric vehicle charging stations, resiliency infrastructure, and more. 

Speaker DeLeo isn't alone in his quest to fund resiliency. Last month Governor Baker unveiled a proposal to raise money for resilient communities. See Gov Baker makes resilient communities a priority 

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy will continue to update you on clean energy developments in the Bay State.  

If you are interested in becoming more involved in any of the above discussions (offshore wind, EVs, resilient communities, the transportation initiative, storage, net metering, renewable energy, energy efficiency), please contact Diane Doucette at Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy or Tom Bullock. Jess Bergman will be out on maternity leave until July 2019.

Top 10 Featured Stories in 2018

Top 10 Featured Chamber Stories in 2018

Congratulations to the chambers featured in the Top 10 stories highlighting leadership on innovation and economic development.

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 a 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. More.

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 got on-board a boat in Massachusetts for a 30-mile journey to tour America's first offshore wind project, the Block Island Wind Farm. More.

Lancaster County Chamber CEO Talks About PA's Energy Development & Lancaster's Solar Leadership

Thomas Baldridge, President and CEO of the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce, speaks out in a new video about how a community and state historically known for oil, coal, and shale development is now embracing clean energy. More.

Local Chambers From Red, Purple States Speak at Global Climate Summit

The day before Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina, local chamber CEOs from red and purple states gathered at the Global Climate Summit in San Francisco to talk about their work in ensuring resilient communities.  More.

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 to share their front-line stories about the benefits of wind with state government leaders.  More.

Chamber Recognized for Helping Members Save through Energy Efficiency

The Newton Needham Business Energy $avers 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. More.

Many Local Chambers Across US in the News Supporting Clean Energy

Local chamber of commerce CEOs are making news for their leadership around clean energy. Here are some recent highlights:  More.

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 in 2018 on a project expected to become what has been described as "The largest solar factory, by capacity, in the Western Hemisphere."  More.

4th Annual Champions of Clean Energy Awards Brings Together Chambers of Commerce From Across North Carolina

In November 2018, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy and Conservatives for Clean Energy co-hosted the 4th Annual Champions of Clean Energy Awards Luncheon where the Currituck Chamber of Commerce was recognized with a Clean Energy Champion award for their continued commitment to expanding solar and wind energy projects across Northeastern North Carolina. More.

Middlesex Chamber's Innovative Financing Program to Boost Local Jobs, Profits and Investment

Businesses everywhere are looking to save money when it comes to energy costs. In response, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Connecticut Green Bank to help member businesses afford energy efficiency and clean energy upgrades. More.

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

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.

"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.

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.

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

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.

“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.

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

Popular Chamber Event Focuses on Economics of Wind, Solar Energy

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.

“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.

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.

Read more in the Daily Advance.

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

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

“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.

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!

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

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.

“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.

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.

Read more in PV Magazine.

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.

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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.

Senator, Chamber CEOs Agree: Wind Development Benefits Rural Communities

Ohio State Senator Cliff Hite (R-Findlay) recently introduced critical legislation to fix Ohio's wind turbine setback laws that are preventing renewable energy jobs and economic development. 

“The current policy is contrary to Ohio’s reputation as a business-friendly environment and an energy-producing state,” Sen. Hite said at the Hog Creek Wind Farm construction project in Ada, Ohio. “It prevents businesses with an interest in gaining access to and investing in wind energy in Ohio from doing so.”

Ohio currently has the most restrictive wind setback provisions in the Midwest—despite enormous wind energy potential in the northwest and statewide opportunities in manufacturing wind turbine components. This is the result of legislation passed in 2014 that tripled the distance wind turbines must be from neighboring property lines and effectively brought development to a halt.

“This bill,” said Sen. Hite, “strikes the proper balance, protecting the rights of both participating and non-participating landowners and will allow responsible wind development to move forward.”

The new legislation would return the property line setback to a distance of 1.2 times the height of the turbine, which is still longer than the previous setback. It also increases the minimum setback from a home to approximately 1400 feet.

Rural chamber leaders cite benefits. Hardin County, home to the Hog Creek Wind Farm, is one of the of rural Ohio communities in a position to benefit from wind development.

“With almost $600,000 in annual payments to the county, schools and other public services, [this] wind farm is a massive infusion of new dollars into our community,” Jon Cross, President and CEO of the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance, said at today’s news conference.

But Hardin County is not the only one to have benefited from wind development that began before the more restrictive setbacks took effect. Cross also noted how his community has watched neighboring counties such as Paulding and Van Wert reap the benefits of wind farms for years and seen major improvements they’ve made to their schools and county infrastructure.

“Those of us with wind farms in our communities have seen firsthand what a positive difference these investments make for our businesses, schools, landowners and entire tax base,” said Susan Munroe, CEO and President of the Van Wert Area Chamber. “Just in Van Wert County alone, our wind farm is the largest single tax payer.

“That’s why I, along with other Northwest Ohio chamber and economic development directors, urge the House of Representatives to support this commonsense legislation,” Munroe added. “And I invite any Ohio House member to visit our wind farm in Van Wert, the largest in the state of Ohio.”  

According to a recent report from the American Wind Energy Association, restoring reasonable wind setback provisions will enable local communities, and the state, to attract jobs and investments that could reach an estimated $4.2 billion.

See video of Hog Creek Wind Farm Press Conference.

Pictured above left to right: Jon Cross, President & CEO, Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance; Kenny Williams, Kent Williams Drainage; Senator Cliff Hite; Amy Kurt, Project Manager, EDP Renewables.

Currituck Chamber CEO Says Solar Project Will Foster a Thriving Local Economy

More than 150 people came out last month for a Currituck Chamber of Commerce open house at a new 2,000-acre farm solar farm. The event was co-hosted by the nearby Elizabeth City Chamber, home to the state’s first wind farm.

Currituck County, the northeastern most county in North Carolina, will receive $500,000 in annual tax revenue from this project.

The chambers partnered with the project’s developer, SunEnergy1, on the event that also attracted representatives from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which will purchase solar from the North Carolina farm.

“As a chamber, we are committed to fostering a thriving and sustainable local economy—and this new solar project will absolutely help us do that in ways that will enhance our community’s quality of life,” said Josh Bass, President of the Currituck Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to the added tax revenue, the local economy will benefit from locally sourced building materials and added construction and maintenance jobs.

According to a Duke University report, released in 2015, solar-friendly policies have helped North Carolina be a leader in solar investment—providing jobs and economic development opportunities to all parts of the state, including rural ones that have struggled historically to create jobs and businesses.

Moreover, the report found, the benefits of solar energy go beyond the particular communities that host them. “All parts of the solar value chain – investors, solar developers, construction contractors, solar panel and component manufacturers – are creating jobs and providing landowners, workers and towns across North Carolina with income and tax revenue,” the report found.

In February, the Currituck County Commissioners banned future solar development in the country, while grandfathering in the SunEnergy1 project.

Recognizing renewable energy as a driver of the local economy, the Currituck Chamber said it is in the best interest of the region to educate the community about the financial benefits from solar energy.

When fully developed, the project is expected to be the largest solar farm east of the Mississippi.

State Senator Urges Local Chambers to Share Their Stories with Legislators

When an Ohio State Senator knocked on the door of one of his constituents asking what he thought of neighboring wind turbines that had recently been constructed in his neighborhood, the man said: “They’re money for my county, and they’re progress.”

That was more than a decade ago. And ever since, that opinion has been growing in the Senator's district in Northwest Ohio—fueled by the leadership of local chambers of commerce and economic development leaders who have witnessed the economic benefits to their communities.

During a recent briefing call for local chambers moderated by Susan Munroe, the President and CEO of the Van Wert Area Chamber said her county has attracted approximately $1.2 billion in wind investments, along with $2 million a year in new revenue for schools, high-paying jobs, and a new stream of income for area farmers.

But in 2014, the Ohio Legislature passed legislation freezing the state’s renewable energy standards and tripling the distance new wind turbines must be constructed from a neighboring property line—effectively bringing wind development to a halt.

The Senator said Senate budget hearings, expected later this month, are an opportunity to fix that, explaining: “There is now, a proposal to establish a reasonable distance that would be a “wind-win” for everyone.”

The Senator encouraged local chamber and economic development leaders to share with their legislators how wind is benefiting their communities and the importance of maintaining this kind of growth in the state. He also talked about a growing number of large corporations that are demanding renewable energy to power their operations.

“Bottom line, chambers know this better than anyone: If we want to attract major corporations to do business here, we have to be open for business,” he said, adding that it’s important to have the right policies in place to ensure these large companies are bringing their business to Ohio and not other states.

Wind development, he added, can help all Ohioans. “I have farmers in my district saying: I’m growing corn, raising beans and I’m harvesting wind, and I’m proud of it,” he said. “There is room for everyone who cares about making Ohio a better place.”

Munroe will lead another capitol visit with her local chamber colleagues and economic development officials to share their stories of how wind has positively impacted their communities. If you are interested in joining the visit, please contact her at Susan@vanwertchamber.com.

New Bedford Chamber Hosts Dialogue on Growing Job Potential of Offshore Wind

In yet another example of how local chambers of commerce are at the forefront of identifying and seizing on the changing economic development opportunities in energy, the New Bedford Chamber of Commerce hosted an event last month about the new offshore wind industry.

It’s a big change from the days when New Bedford was a leading whaling center, with ships regularly setting out in search of both whales and energy. But it also clearly reflects changing winds of opportunity in energy today.

“We are excited by the job and investment growth that offshore wind development could offer to our member businesses and community,” said Rick Kidder, President and CEO of the 1,000-member New Bedford Chamber. “We also recognize that local chambers of commerce are the ideal places to host conversations about the new economic opportunities in clean energy and other dynamic industries.”

The event featured speakers from the New Bedford Economic Development Council, Eversource, the New Bedford Wind Energy Center, and others.

“New Bedford should absolutely be the national cluster for offshore wind” as a center of operations and workforce training, said Derek Santos, Executive Director of the New Bedford Economic Development Council. “There should be no reason why folks aren’t trained in New Bedford for projects all over the eastern coast of the United States.”

An estimated 60,000 people currently work in the offshore wind industry in Europe. In the United States, an estimated 43,000 jobs are expected by 2030, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

The first commercial offshore wind project began operations in 2016 off Block Island, Rhode Island.  New Jersey, Oregon and Virginia have approved offshore wind projects in development.  And Massachusetts, New York and Maryland have proposed offshore wind projects under consideration.

Dollars and Jobs from Wind, Solar, and Energy Efficiency

Peggy Emerson, Paulding Chamber

How exactly did your community and member businesses make so much money from wind energy?

That was the burning question one chamber executive asked another during a conversation at last week’s annual meeting of the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Ohio.

The answer was simple: new investments, tax benefits, jobs — all of which translates to better roads, schools, and more, said Peggy Emerson, CEO of the Paulding Chamber in northwest Ohio.

But wind isn’t the only form of clean energy driving economic gains across Ohio.

Other local chamber leaders said they saw significant savings from the rise of solar energy while others investigated how to offer their member businesses access to energy efficiency. (Ohio ranks among the top ten in efficiency jobs nationwide.)

Michael Fraizer, Gov. Kasich’s Assistant Policy Director for the Environment, Energy, and Agriculture, also stopped by the conference, which attracted more than 100 chamber executives. Clean energy is a key part of Ohio’s efforts to be attractive location to major employers—from Amazon with its demands for wind energy to Dannon with its growing demand for solar.

Paulding’s Peggy Emerson went from table to table to share her story about the $200 million investment in wind energy that has been made in her community, where local farmers welcome turbines as a new “cash crop.”

Tom Bullock, CICE

And Tom Bullock, the new Ohio Coordinator for Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy, briefed chamber leaders about the wide range of ways local chamber leaders are helping their member businesses take advantage of the growing economic opportunities in clean energy.

WATCH VIDEO of Peggy Emerson explaining how wind development has positively impacted her community here.

For more information, contact Tom@chambersforinnovation.com.