CICE featured on America First Energy Podcast: Local Chambers are Conveners

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) was recently featured on Virginia-based Energy Right’s America First Energy Podcast. CICE’s Director of Policy, Rob Bradham, and Director of National Engagement, Susan Munroe, joined host Skyler Zunk to discuss the role chambers of commerce can play in the clean energy transition. 

“Chambers of commerce and economic development leaders are the voice of business, and the role they can play in clean energy projects is pivotal as they are the keepers of economic growth in their communities,” said Susan Munroe.

The conversation highlighted that as energy demand rises—driven by industries like data centers and AI—chambers have a unique opportunity to convene local business voices, engage in permitting reform, and help their regions remain competitive.

One recurring theme was education. The more chambers can learn about clean energy, the more they can guide their members, challenge misinformation, and ensure their communities are positioned for growth.  

The discussion also highlighted the urgent need for permitting reform. In Virginia, home to 35% of the world’s hyperscale data centers, energy demand is expected to double in the next decade. 

“With a grid structure accustomed to a 1% to 1.5% load growth per year, existing in a state where the growth is expected to be 6.5%, permitting reform is critical,” said Rob Bradham.

These themes will continue in CICE’s upcoming webinar series on energy demand, including Powering Virginia’s Data Center Growth and Rising Energy Demand: Strategic & Economic Opportunities on September 24. 

Conversations like these underscore the opportunities and challenges faced as energy demand accelerates, and underscores how chambers are on the front lines of today’s energy transition. 

You can listen to the full episode on Spotify, YouTube, Apple and Amazon.