Chambers Deliver Urgent Message to Congress: Fix Permitting, Unlock Investment
This week, Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) brought together chamber of commerce and economic development leaders from across the country in Washington, D.C., to meet with policymakers on Capitol Hill. Our message: America needs policy certainty to advance clean energy investment and economic growth, as well as permitting reform that enables, rather than delays, critical infrastructure projects.
“Businesses require economic certainty and stable policies to plan investments, expand operations, and create American jobs,” said Rob Bradham, Director of Policy, CICE. “Predictable policy frameworks and streamlined permitting are essential for companies to make the long-term commitments required to build our energy infrastructure.”
Current Challenges Threaten Progress
Chambers and economic development leaders across the country are seeing critical clean energy projects face delays and uncertainty. Multi-million-dollar projects nationwide are at risk from funding cuts and tax credit rollbacks, and without predictable policies, communities may miss opportunities for job creation, investment, and stronger regional economies. Instead of strengthening America's energy future, these decisions create barriers that slow or halt critical projects at a time when rising energy demand requires every available electron on the grid.
The Path Forward
Meetings this week highlighted two essential reforms:
Permitting certainty: Businesses and developers need well-defined timelines and procedures to make the long-term investments that drive jobs and local economic growth. Clear processes accelerate project development and reduce uncertainty.
Technology-neutral approach: Siting and permitting must provide a level playing field across all energy generation and storage technologies, including clean energy resources. Fair treatment ensures the most effective solutions can compete and succeed.
Our conversations on Capitol Hill emphasized that policy certainty isn't partisan: it's practical. When businesses can plan with confidence, communities benefit through job creation, economic development, and reliable energy infrastructure that meets America's growing needs.
Clean energy delivers jobs, affordability, and reliability faster than alternatives. Chambers and economic developers are uniquely positioned to champion projects that transform their communities. CICE offers proven tools and messaging to amplify your voice. When local business leaders speak up, Congress listens and America wins.
Participating chambers and economic development organizations included:
Caryl Auslander (IN), Torchbearer Public Affairs, representing a number of chambers
