CASE STUDY: Rebuilding Dalton: How Clean Energy Diversified the Local Economy

Overview

Nestled in the foothills of Northwest Georgia, the city of Dalton has long been known as the Carpet Capital of the World. Located 30 miles southeast of Chattanooga and 90 miles north of Atlanta, Dalton’s textile legacy began in the early 20th century when local artisans revived the Southern tradition of tufted bedspreads. What started as a cottage industry evolved into the invention of modern tufted carpet, transforming Dalton into a textile powerhouse.

For nearly 70 years, Dalton thrived as the corporate and manufacturing home to a $10 billion industry. Despite being virtually recession-proof for decades, the Great Recession shattered that perception. Between 2007 and 2009, unemployment shot from under 4% to over 14%, making Dalton one of the hardest-hit communities in the country. The downturn exposed the risks of overreliance on a single industry and forced local leaders to rethink Dalton’s economic foundation.

Context: 

• Whitfield County population - 100,000

• Greater Dalton Chamber Membership - 1,600

Seizing the Opportunity for Diversification

The Great Recession made it clear that Dalton’s economy was too dependent on a single industry: floor covering. In response, the Greater Dalton Chamber and local leaders fully funded an economic development initiative, the Dalton/Whitfield Joint Development Authority (JDA). This effort was jointly financed through private funds raised by the Chamber and matched by public funds from Whitfield County and the City of Dalton. Additionally, the Whitfield County Commission invested $5.25 million to acquire 150 acres along Interstate 75 to establish Carbondale Business Park—marking the first time the community had an industrial park to market and an economic development team tasked with the job.

Strategic Planning for a Stronger Community

In 2016, the Greater Dalton Chamber commissioned a study to guide a community-wide strategic planning process that the Chamber would go on to spearhead. The study confirmed that Dalton’s economic dependence on one industry was a significant problem, but also showed that Dalton was far behind peer communities in the Southeast on a host of other issues, including lagging market-rate housing, educational attainment, and median family income. The most concerning statistic: 62% of those earning more than $40,000 in Dalton chose to live elsewhere. Diversifying the local economy and making Dalton a more desirable place to live and work became the basis for the strategic plan, called Believe Greater Dalton.

As industry recruitment continued around Carbondale, the community worked to revitalize its downtown, create an entrepreneurial ecosystem, adding single and multi-family market-rate housing, and bolstering educational attainment.

Attracting Economic Investment

The Greater Dalton Chamber and JDA team began proactively marketing the community to site selectors and economic developers, while simultaneously building relationships with state economic development teams. 

Success did not come immediately. It took time for economic development projects to start looking at Dalton. When they did, Carbondale—the county’s new industrial park—didn’t show well. As JDA Executive Director & Chamber Vice President of Economic Development, Carl Campbell liked to say, “It looked like a good place to hunt.” Hilly and tree-covered, it was difficult for development prospects to see the potential. Eventually, the County Commission addressed the challenge by grading a large site and having it certified as a Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) “shovel-ready” site. Prospect activity increased dramatically, but the community was still unable to close a deal—until Hanwha QCells visited in 2017.

QCells proved to be the right project at the right time. While Dalton was actively recruiting QCells, the city was also making progress on broader economic and community development initiatives through Believe Greater Dalton. When QCells announced a $200 million investment and 600 new jobs in 2018, it was a breakthrough for the city.

QCells was eager to move quickly, and after nearly a decade of preparation, Dalton was ready. The partnership ensured swift construction, and QCells produced its first panels within a year of the announcement. As of 2024, QCells employs over 1,800 people and has invested over $500 million in Dalton.

Economic Benefits

Together, the recruitment of QCells and the Believe Greater Dalton strategic plan have yielded significant economic benefits:

• Over 900 new market-rate apartments built, with more in the pipeline, representing the first sizable multi-family investments in the community in over 20 years.

• Three market-rate subdivisions built in the first in 30 years.

• QCells has expanded its footprint, with total investment exceeding $500 million and over 1,300 employees onsite.

• Carbondale Business Park is effectively full, with QCells acting as the anchor business.

• Over $15 million in private investment in downtown Dalton.

CASE STUDY: Economic Diversification: JAXUSA Lands First Automotive OEM Manufacturer in Florida

Overview

JAXUSA Partnership, the economic development arm of the JAX Chamber (chamber of commerce for Jacksonville, Florida), drives business growth in Jacksonville and throughout Northeast Florida, a region of about 1.9 million. The Jacksonville region’s economy has thrived by strategically focusing on attracting investment and jobs in healthcare, technology, and financial services.

Under the leadership of President Aundra Wallace, JAXUSA has further diversified the local economy by securing the first automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of electrified autonomous passenger shuttles, putting the clean energy sector to work for Jacksonville.

Opportunity

JAXUSA Partnership was excited to learn that German manufacturer HOLON, a leader in autonomous electric people movers, was considering Jacksonville for its new manufacturing plant. The facility will produce 15-passenger autonomous vehicles for both commercial and public transit, part of a growing sector of electrified transportation that moves small groups of people and supplements public transit. HOLON’s parent company, Benteler, also aims to meet ambitious energy and emissions targets and plans to integrate renewables into its operations.

JAXUSA realized that Jacksonville was competing with established automotive hubs in Michigan and South Carolina. Instead of viewing this as a long shot, JAXUSA honed in on HOLON’s key technology needs and developed a strategy to leverage Jacksonville’s robust skilled technology and software workforce—which fit perfectly with those needs.

How They Did It

Jacksonville offered HOLON a compelling opportunity to invest in a community aligned with its goals for electrified transportation. 

• Jacksonville’s comprehensive mobility strategy includes a strong commitment to electrification by the Jacksonville Transit Authority (JTA), creating immediate demand for HOLON’s autonomous electric vehicles and addressing key transit gaps.

• Jacksonville offers a robust technology and software workforce, bolstered by JAXUSA’s proactive collaboration with Florida State College at Jacksonville and JTA to create a workforce development working group. This ensures that HOLON has access to the skilled workforce necessary for manufacturing, with the City offering HOLON $1,000 per new employee for training.

• The region is also well-equipped with strong support infrastructure, highlighted by valued Chamber member Miller Electric’s dedicated EV Innovation Design Center. Further, HOLON will partner with Orlando-based Beep for operations and deployment.

Additionally, access to federal funding through the Build America, Buy America Act (part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)) has made this project not just viable, but a key example of how strategic partnerships and community alignment can drive industry innovation and economic growth.

Economic Development Benefits

HOLON’s investment in Jacksonville represents a major economic boon, positioning the region to become a national leader in autonomous vehicle technology.

• Investment: HOLON will build a $100M, 500,000 sq. foot facility in North Jacksonville

• Job Creation: In addition to creating 150-190 jobs at the factory, the plant will attract up to an estimated 1,000 indirect jobs via the supply chain and in services and support.

• Revenue: Increased tax revenue will benefit schools, infrastructure, police, fire, and other key services.

• Strategic Growth: Jacksonville will be able to attract additional innovators and manufacturers in the autonomous and electric vehicle space.

• Export Business: HOLON vehicles will be sold in the U.S. and exported internationally.

• Infrastructure: Local infrastructure developments, including utility and grid upgrades, will benefit the region.

Perhaps most significantly, HOLON's investment enables Jacksonville to attract more clean energy and electrified transportation companies. According to JAXUSA Partnership President, Aundra Wallace, “The HOLON relationship is a springboard for Jacksonville to attract more businesses in the autonomous, high-tech transportation sector.”

In a news article announcing the plant, U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean (R-Florida) said he is working on federal regulations to encourage expanded use of autonomous vehicle technology, ensuring that the U.S., not China, leads this sector. He called HOLON’s choice of Jacksonville “a 'Buy America' success story, plain and simple.”

Lessons Learned

JAXUSA Partnership developed a strategy early on to frame its value around technology expertise, given the ever-increasing importance of technology skills to the autonomous and electric vehicle industry. Additionally, their clear understanding of the Jacksonville transportation ecosystem, including JTA’s intention to become a significant and immediate customer of HOLON, made the area very attractive to the company.

To learn more about JAXUSA Partnership’s leadership in economic development, visit jaxusa.org.

Reno + Sparks Chamber Applauds Member of Congress for Defending Clean Energy Policy

The Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce commended their congressman Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-2) in a letter thanking him for his commitment to clean energy innovation and support for maintaining the clean energy tax credits of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Chamber CEO Ann Silver reinforces the message that the IRA has driven innovation, investment, and job creation in the region, sharing that local businesses continue to benefit from increased access to clean energy, with significant expansion in battery storage, renewable generation, and electrified transportation. Rep. Amodei's focus on energy innovation aligns with the Chamber’s goals of fostering a new energy economy and seizing economic opportunities.

Check out the full letter here.

Chevron REG Breaks Ground on 10-Acre Solar Array in Mason City, Iowa; Mason City Chamber CEO Delivers Remarks

Colleen Frein, President & CEO of the Mason City Chamber of Commerce delivered remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Chevron Renewable Energy Group on Tuesday, July 9. This event marked the start of construction on a new 10-acre solar array being added to the company's biodiesel plant in Mason City, Iowa. Her remarks are as follows:

We are excited to see this continued investment from Chevron Renewable Energy Group at the Mason City location. REG has been a crucial partner in the growth and development of the community. And I’d like to share some examples of what I mean by this.

First, biofuels are truly fueling the economy in North Iowa. For those who are guests in Mason City today, it should be pretty clear on why this is so important. We are the urban center of a rural region. The success of our farmers dictates the health of our local economy, and biofuel production plays a a crucial role in their success. But it goes beyond that – biofuel research and production is a key component in ensuring we have a healthy environment for our future generations. We are proud to be at the center of this industry here in North Iowa, and continued investments like the one we are celebrating today are evidence of that.

Second, and something that is dear to my heart, is Chevron REG’s investment in the greater good of the community. This facility has been a member of the Chamber for more than a decade, and we have seen great growth in that time. Not just in the industrial park, but in our downtown, in our parks, and in the attitudes of people in our region. Chevron’s local leadership has been heavily involved in this growth. This includes Tyler Kerr’s service on our Board of Directors, leading the Chamber as Board Chair through the pandemic. It includes Tonya Roberts’ willingness to step up and pitch in whenever it is needed, like enlisting her teammates and loved ones to help install the beautiful picture frames in Central and East Park. It includes Evan Hulbert ensuring community treasures like our North Iowa Band Festival and Moonlight Bike Ride are included in Chevron’s charitable giving. 

On behalf of the Chamber’s 650 plus businesses, thank you for your commitment to the environment, to the people in our community, and to the development of our region. We look forward to many more years of partnership!

Tucson Chambers Send Support Letter to Congressman Ciscomani Ahead of IRA Anniversary

The Tucson Metro and Tucson Hispanic Chambers of Commerce sent a joint letter of support to their U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani (AZ-6) in advance of the August 16 two-year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) signing. The chamber CEOs outline the critical importance of the IRA to local economic growth, innovation, access to clean energy, and creation of job opportunities. They also note that many provisions of the bill have long-standing bipartisan support. 

Check out the full letter here. 

Scaling Sustainability: Clayton Chamber (NC) Event Showcases Sustainable Business Growth

Business executives, elected officials, community leaders, and industry experts joined the Clayton Chamber of Commerce on June 26, 2024 for, “Scaling Sustainability: Growing Your Business and Doing More with Less.” The event emphasized the critical role of sustainable growth in economic development and was co-hosted by Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk.

The well-attended event follows Novo Nordisk’s announcement of their monumental $4.1 billion expansion, set to create 1,000 new jobs in Clayton and Johnston County. This investment, the largest life science venture in North Carolina’s history, highlights the fruitful partnership between the chamber and Novo Nordisk.

Presentations by Novo Nordisk included their ambitious ‘Circular for Zero’ initiative, aiming for zero environmental impact, as well as discussions on symbiosis and sustainability in design and construction. Local small businesses also played a significant role, with Paul Aclair, Brewmaster at Deep River Brewing, detailing their commitment to sustainable brewing practices, underscoring the chamber’s support for local sustainability efforts.

The event concluded with an exclusive tour of Novo Nordisk’s API facility, allowing attendees to witness the company's sustainable operations firsthand.

“This event was a remarkable opportunity for our community to learn about the innovative sustainability efforts being undertaken by both large corporations like Novo Nordisk and local businesses,” said Clayton Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Dana Wooten. “We are proud to support and promote such important initiatives that benefit both our environment and our community.”

The Clayton Chamber of Commerce has a strong track record in sustainability, featuring sustainable technology, renewable assets, and grid modernization in its legislative agenda, and receiving statewide recognition for its commitment to clean energy in 2021. At the 7th annual “North Carolina Clean Energy Champion” awards event, co-hosted by Conservatives for Clean Energy-NC (CCE) and Chambers for Innovation & Clean Energy (CICE), the Chamber was awarded the North Carolina Clean Energy Champion Award. The 

By fostering collaboration between business and the community, the chamber is paving the way for a more sustainable future in Clayton and beyond.

CASE STUDY: Winter Park Prosperity Scorecard

OVERVIEW

The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce (FL) produced the Winter Park Prosperity Scorecard, an online dashboard that tracks and measures key indicators of Winter Park’s economic strength.

• Winter Park, FL population: 26,307

• Winter Park Chamber membership: 750 businesses

• Timeline: 6-9 months

• Launched: March 2022

OPPORTUNITY

As communities across the country struggled in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, chambers of commerce played a crucial role in revitalizing local economies by providing essential support and resources. The Winter Park Chamber partnered with the city, forming an Economic Recovery Task Force to assess opportunities to revitalize the local economy.

SURVEY

The task force decided to conduct a survey of its residents in order to determine the most important factors contributing to Winter Park’s economic landscape.

In order to ensure that their efforts were representative of the entire community, the chamber consulted a wide array of stakeholders in addition to chamber members. Holding more than twenty presentations with diverse community groups, the chamber worked to build community awareness, confidence, and investment in the project. 

To ensure thorough methodology and minimize bias, the chamber hired Janelle Zurich Analytics to provide specialized survey development and was supported by Rollins College in gathering and analyzing the survey data. Over the course of several months, they conducted interviews with 616 Winter Park residents on the most important factors to stimulate the city’s economic revitalization.

“We became aware of needs that we didn’t traditionally look at, like poverty and food insecurity,” says the chamber’s President/CEO, Betsy Gardner, IOM. “Afterward, we thought we needed to create a tool measuring total prosperity where everyone could plug in and see the factors that create prosperity.”

SCORECARD

Following the survey, the chamber conceived of the Winter Park Prosperity Scorecard—an online dashboard reflecting the key indicators of the community’s economic and regional health. Informed by the survey data, the scorecard would lay a framework for assessing and directing economic recovery efforts.

With data visualization provided by eImpact and Lightcast and funding by the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation, the scorecard features traditional prosperity metrics such as employment, industry, workforce, and housing, as well as measures of sustainability and clean energy, specifically:

• Public electric vehicle charging units

• Percentage of city fleet that is electric

• Breakdown of renewable/clean energy mix under city utility portfolio

• Number of annual solar permits (residential and commercial)

Screenshot from Winter Park Prosperity Scorecard. Source: Winter Park Chamber of Commerce (FL)

ROLLOUT

The chamber developed a multichannel communications strategy—including digital, earned, and traditional media—to ensure both survey engagement as well as coverage for the scorecard’s eventual release.

More videos with the chamber’s partners are available here.

RESULTS

The Winter Park Prosperity Scorecard was a resounding success, shaping community conversations and chamber programming as the economy rebounded. 

• The Winter Park Chamber received positive media coverage, including articles in the Orlando Sentinel and The 32789, and TV and podcast features. The release of the scorecard was covered in an episode of the Talk of the Town podcast.

• The Prosperity Scorecard website has tracked over 16,000 lifetime visits, with 316 unique users and 477 visits in Q1 of 2024 alone.

• The survey highlighted diversity in decision-making as a key metric, which served as the foundation of Winter PAC, the chamber’s political committee formed in January 2024. Winter PAC’s first endorsed candidate was elected to the city commission three months later.

• With members of the Winter Park City Commission stating their desire to partner with the chamber on several aligned tenets featured in the scorecard—especially sustainability—the chamber is pleased to continue leading the community conversation on economic resilience.

CICE partners with local chamber to bring first public EV charging station to Florida island community

This week, the SanCap (FL) Chamber of Commerce unveiled an electric vehicle (EV) charging station at its visitors center, which serves both Sanibel and Captiva Islands, off the coast of Florida near Ft. Myers. The station is the first public EV charging station on either island. 

The station is both a triumph of resilience and collaboration. In the planning stages before Hurricane Ian hit in September 2022 and delayed the installation, the charger is part of a program developed by Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) to help chambers and their members have access to EV chargers throughout Florida. This program addresses a critical need for the state, which currently has limited access to EV charging stations, and serves as a model for how business leaders can introduce EV charging stations to their communities.

“More and more Florida residents are choosing to drive electric vehicles and, as such, expanding the infrastructure for EV drivers is vital,” says Ryan Evans, executive director of Chambers for Innovation & Clean Energy. “Bringing this charger online is particularly significant because the SanCap Chamber has been a tremendous partner for us over the years.”

CICE worked with Florida-based Optimus Energy Solutions to provide and install the charging station at no cost to the SanCap Chamber and its communities. Two spots in the chamber parking lot are now designated for EV charging, open 24 hours daily. Both islands are renowned worldwide for being serene, idyllic environments for vacation getaways, so building out the EV infrastructure is part of the islands’ plan to preserve their natural ecosystems.

“This is an important step for the future of our destination, offering confidence to drivers of electric vehicles that they will find the infrastructure they need to charge their cars while experiencing our destination,” says John Lai, SanCap Chamber president and CEO. “We are grateful for our partners who have worked for several years to make this possible.”

The charging station comes as the country is facing growing need for EV charging stations, along with a cold spell which has placed greater strain on the U.S.’s EV infrastructure. According to a PwC analysis, the EV charging market could — and will need to — grow nearly tenfold to satisfy the charging needs of an estimated 27 million EVs on the road by 2030.

Based in Mt. Dora, Fla., Optimus Energy Solutions provided and installed the charger at no cost to the chamber. The company will manage and maintain the charger over the next 10 years. Users can pay at the station by credit card or with the CharePoint app.

UPDATE (1/30/24): This story was covered by the Ft. Myers News-Press, Naples Daily News, and Dealtown.

Tucson (AZ) Hispanic Chamber hosts two events on sustainability and clean energy

The Tucson (AZ) Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted two events during August and September, shining light on the jobs and economic opportunities with the clean energy economy.  

On September 12, the Chamber co-hosted a clean energy webinar (recording available here), along with Arizona Forward and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.  The event provided 150 representatives of chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, government staff, and Arizona businesses a ‘snapshot’ of the substantial growth in Arizona for EV and battery manufacturing and the rapid deployment of wind and solar. 

As Rob Elias, CEO and President of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber, observed during the discussion “energy sustainability is very important to our members - they have voiced this as a priority”.  In addition to the session hosts, panelists included Steven G. Zylstra, CEO of the Arizona Technology Council, Joel Millman, Workforce Development Manager for Pinal County, and Blaise Caudill, Energy Advisor to the Governor.  

Steve Zylstra highlighted the expansive job opportunities in clean energy and Arizona’s focus on reaching out to underserved communities. “$9B has been invested in EVs, batteries, and recycling in AZ, with 70% of those funds since the passage of the IRA and 90% since the IIJA, including 11,500 new jobs”.   Joel Millman described Arizona as being at a historic crossroads as it becomes an EV supply and manufacturing hub.  In order to fill the tens of thousands of clean energy jobs (and growing) in Arizona, not only do companies such as American Battery Factory and LG Energy Solution need staff, they need specific skills.  Blaise Caudill updated the audience on Arizona's energy policies and plans. 

The Tucson Hispanic Chamber’s second event was in August when they led a town hall with Reps. Juan Ciscomani (R) and Raul Grijalva (D).  The conversation with the 200 attendees, covering sustainability, the economy, the border, and education, was bipartisan and modeled how a discussion with differing points of view can be informative and positive.  In terms of common ground, both elected officials agree that the clean energy economy is a great way to attract jobs, investment, and opportunities to Arizona.

Currituck Chamber Celebrates New Oak Trail Solar Project

Oak Trail Solar, a 100-megawatt (MW), Leeward Renewables Energy (LRE) project was recently completed near Moyock, North Carolina; with Verizon Communications committing to a long-term virtual purchase agreement.  A celebratory ribbon cutting, hosted by LRE and the American Clean Power Association (ACP) featured comments from Chief Executive Officer of LRE, Jason Allen; LRE Board Member, Mary Doswell; ACP CEO, Jason Grumet; Nextracker President, Strategy, Software & Administration, Bruce Ledesma; Verizon SVP, Global Supply Chain & Sourcing, and Chief Sustainability Officer, Jim Gowen; and Currituck County Commissioner, Owen Etheridge.  “Currituck County is excited to have a renewable energy project like Oak Trail Solar in our community,” said Josh Bass, President of the Currituck Chamber of Commerce. “The project helps us on a number of fronts and supports funding for essential services that keep our community strong. LRE’s collaboration and values have built good relationships in Currituck County, and we’re looking forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Oak Trail Solar.”  Companies large and small are setting sustainability goals, encouraging new clean energy projects across the nation. Solar projects are known to deliver significant economic benefits to the local community for years and years to come. Oak Solar is no exception as the project created 300 jobs during peak construction and will continue to provide long-term clean energy jobs and property tax contributions to Currituck County.  “Oak Trail Solar is another example of how LRE seeks to meaningfully contribute to the communities where we live and operate. Our engagement goes well beyond job creation, economic investment, and the generation of clean, renewable energy. We strive to build lasting partnerships with civic leaders, property owners, and community members. At Oak Trail Solar, we are committed to doing just that while preserving and protecting the environment,” says Jason Allen, LRE’s Chief Executive Officer Clean energy projects have a great impact on the communities in which they reside. Not only do they offer good-paying careers, but they also contribute to the business community and provide excellent economic development opportunities, making them a perfect ally for a chamber of commerce to have.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Michele Querry.

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy | 2804 Battleground Drive, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 Unsubscribe cicecoordinator@chambersforinnovation.com Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by mquerry@chambersforinnovation.com powered by Try email marketing for free today!

San Francisco Chamber Foundation Collaborates to Promote Yes San Francisco, Urban Sustainability Challenge

Urban Sustainability Challenge

Deloitte, Salesforce, and World Economic Forum recently announced the launch of the Yes San Francisco (Yes SF), Urban Sustainability Challenge, the first location-based UpLink Challenge. The challenge was created in response to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 11 aimed at making communities more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.  Entrepreneurs and organizations were encouraged to submit sustainable solutions for their city’s needs for an opportunity to receive funding through the Challenge. Collaborators in this effort include Citi and the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Foundation. While Citi will use their Citi Impact Fund to help engage investors, the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Foundation will bring local stakeholders to advocate for the Challenge. San Francisco Chamber of Commerce CEO & President, Rodney Fong, said, “San Francisco has a generational opportunity to build on its core strengths as a global center of commerce, with a talented, educated workforce and a long history of leadership in technology and innovation, to refocus its energy on leading the fight against climate change.” In total, the San Francisco Chamber Foundation received 143 submissions by the August 11, 2023 deadline. The proposals were required to have a positive impact on the community through the lens of sustainability, and work to transform downtown San Francisco and revitalize spaces across the city. Innovations, which can be found here, included: Redesigned indoor and outdoor spaces that bring residents, visitors, and new businesses to the area while utilizing sustainable materials that minimize the city’s carbon footprint. Converting downtown office buildings into residential housing Innovative clean energy and storage solutions for the urban area Reimagined ideas for urban food production to provide healthy, reliable nutrition to the community. Innovative approaches to water conservation and reuse that stimulate equitable job creation. The Yes SF, Urban Sustainability Challenge will bring together a community of organizations, entrepreneurs and leaders to help create a more sustainable and inclusive San Francisco as the city works to become a model for resiliency.

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

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Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Adds New EV Charging Station

This story was written by Jackie LiBrizzi, a multimedia journalist at News13 about the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new ChargePoint station. This article was published by WBTW News13 on July, 31 2023.

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has begun embracing the looming electric-vehicle revolution. Officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday for a new ChargePoint station. “Ninety-five percent of the people that come to visit us every year come by car,” said Karen Riordan, president and CEO of the chamber. “So as more and more people purchase electric car, we’re going to need to have these chargers. So we’re really trying to get ahead of it. Our stated goal is to become the electric vehicle charging hot spot of South Carolina.” The chamber now has two EV parking spots at its visitor’s center and office at 1200 N. Oak Street in Myrtle Beach. “We heard about a grant that Santee Cooper was offering, and we applied for the grant,” Riordan said. “We had two things that we applied for. One was to actually help us purchase this ChargePoint charger, and the second was to do the research study that will map all of the EV chargers that exist currently in the Grand Strand as of today.”  The grant covered 50% of the cost of the station and the chamber covered the other half. Riordan said there are nearly three dozen charging stations now in operation across the Grand Strand. Santee Cooper officials said the grant process is very competitive and that 15 to 20 companies or organizations have applied for the funding. “Of course, part of the program that we have at Santee Cooper will increase E-V adoption and encourage customers to hopefully travel to Myrtle Beach,” said Timothy Suggs, the EV program manager and commercial energy advisor for Santee Cooper said. To apply for one of the Santee Cooper Evolve grants, go to the utility’s website or email emobility@santeecooper.com.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Michele Querry.

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Chamber Leader, Miller Electric Company - Getting the Jump on Electrifying Transportation

Miller Electric Company, a proud member of the JAX Chamber and Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, and ten-year sponsor of the Jacksonville Jaguar’s new solar-powered training facility, the Miller Electric Center, recently broke ground on their newest venture, the Electric Vehicle Innovation Design Center (EVIDC). This new center, a partnership with CBRE, Schneider Electric, Graybar and WB Engineers and Consultants, is being built in response to the rapid shift to an electrified transportation system and will serve as a resource for people to better understand electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging and infrastructure, as well as microgrids.   At the groundbreaking, Henry Brown, Miller Electric’s CEO, explained, “At Miller Electric we believe that sustainability and economic progress go hand in hand. We really see this as an opportunity to grow jobs and invest in our community”. Brown also noted that in ten years, half of cars for sale will be electric. Kerri Stewart, Chief Strategy Officer at Miller Electric and JAX Chamber Board member, added, “We are proud to spearhead decarbonization efforts in Jacksonville and Florida while revolutionizing the way commercial consumers engage with the EV industry.”

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan also spoke at the groundbreaking. “If we are the leader (in EV technology) then that creates all kinds of job opportunities, workforce opportunities - so this is exactly the type of technology I like to see us grow in Jacksonville.”  The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) participated in the event as well, bringing along electrified city buses. The Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) also voiced their support and readiness for transportation electrification.   With ambitious growth projections, people may wonder how Miller Electric is finding trained staff to meet their goals - a challenge across the board for growing clean energy businesses. One way is through the DOD SkillBridge program - a program bridging the transition for veterans leaving the military and entering the private sector. Miller provides a three to six month internship opportunity to learn electrical skills on the job. As a member of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), Miller works with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) locals across North America to ensure skilled trade professionals are trained and certified on the latest EV charging technologies. Stay tuned for more news on Miller EV Solutions and Jacksonville’s progress in EV charging (www.millerev.com).

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Anne Feldhusen.

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Bank of America CEO Speaks on the Advancement of a Clean Energy Economy at the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference

The Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce held their annual Mackinac Policy Conference from May 30 to June 2 on Mackinac Island. This year’s conference focused on “the Power of &” which created dialogue among speakers and participants on why Michigan should be focused on an “and” approach, opposed to an “either or” when it comes to policy solutions. This sparked healthy and productive conversations and showed that the “Power of &” can bring polarizing sides closer to a middle ground. Keynote speaker, Brian Moynihan, CEO of Bank of America Corporation, discussed the transition to a cleaner energy future and supported capitalism, saying the “only hope” to accomplish sustainability and carbon-reduction goals is for businesses to bridge the gap that charities, government, and individuals can’t afford: "Capitalism isn't the only system that can do this; it's really the only hope to accomplish these things." Moynihan praised the Inflation Reduction Act and the opportunities it brings to states like Michigan, such as funds to purchase electric buses and fast track permitting on new infrastructure construction.  Bank of America, with a net income of $26 billion in 2022, has committed $1 trillion for the energy transition over 10 years. Businesses will be encouraged, and frankly, pushed to move towards a clean energy economy, regardless of their stance on climate change, carbon reduction, or clean energy. "We need to help the transition take place for our clients or customers," Moynihan said. "Can we improve how it's done? One hundred percent, but right now, we need it to survive. So, the idea is how do you have that but make progress? And that comes down to having plans and having commitments, and so, the net-zero commitment by countries, by businesses, by sectors, by states, cities and towns covers a large portion of the economy in the world, 95%."

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

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Florida Chambers of Commerce are Leading their Communities in Resiliency & Sustainability Efforts

With the start of the 2023 hurricane season, chambers and governments throughout Florida are reassessing their resiliency as they prepare for the next storm. In one of the country’s most vulnerable areas, the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce is leading its community in this endeavor, recently organizing a trip to Lee County to learn from the chambers and cities still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. “We don’t know what we didn’t know and that was why we started this effort too,” says Christie Bruner, vice president of advocacy for the chamber. “Our CEO understands we must be leaders in our community by taking the precautions needed for this type of event.” The trip took place in May and included more than 30 business and government leaders. St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch came, along with 10 other city officials. The Tampa Bay Times sent a reporter and reported on the activity. The effort was one part of the organization's Sustainability Task Force, which was developed because sustainability and resiliency is central to the mission of the chamber. On the trip, the group toured the devastation and heard about the lessons learned from the storm. This included meeting with local chambers, the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce. “We heard from our chamber partners on how essential it is to have 90 days of cash reserve,” Bruner says. “They warned us about thinking that state and federal relief funds will be coming quickly once approved. It takes time and the businesses that didn’t have three months of cash reserves are the ones that did not survive.”

Another interesting detail was how the Fort Myers Beach Chamber was able to maintain communications to the community after the storm. That chamber had a staff person recently move to India. From there, that staff member maintained the chamber’s website, social media and email newsletters becoming a key resource with current information. As such, the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce is now designating a staff member to go to outside the region when a hurricane approaches Tampa Bay. Of course, the trip was not an isolated event. It’s part of a larger effort with the chamber’s sustainability task force. After the trip, the chamber surveyed its members to gather reactions, determine the top items to work on and to start creating recommendations and the chamber is also holding a lunch and learn about the trip and to present its recommendations. “It’s hard not to prioritize resiliency issues like this as it can affect every decision a community makes, like how and where to build affordable housing or public transportation,” Bruner says. “It’s very advantageous for chambers to have that type of perspective to lead their communities.” She adds: “This trip was wonderful, but very sobering and impactful.”

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Alan Byrd.

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Op-Ed: The Inflation Reduction Act: A new dawn for Marion County

This opinion piece was written by Tina Shaw, president of Marion County Chamber of Commerce. This article was published by Times West Virginian on May, 27 2023.

The Inflation Reduction Act, historically the most substantial federal investment in modernizing the American energy industry, is positively impacting our very own Marion County and will become very important to our business community. An influx of renewable energy companies choosing to conduct business in West Virginia has been observed — thus creating new jobs for in-state workers and building substantial tax revenue. Thanks to the clean energy provisions included in the IRA, our home state is quickly gaining a reputation as a prosperous place to live and do business. As such, Marion County is doing its part to help West Virginia maintain its status as a Top 5 energy-producing state in the nation. The IRA’s clean energy federal investments are broadening our energy portfolio, bolstering our production capabilities, and diversifying the secure jobs we can offer Marion County citizens. In recent years, West Virginia has seen an outflux of young professionals moving away from the state in search of more lucrative career opportunities and stable futures. Even those residing in Marion County had sought jobs in neighboring states because those markets could provide higher wages. Today, the IRA allows new clean energy companies to come to West Virginia and provide quality careers for our residents. A future is on the horizon where renewable energy is prioritized as an integral industry, which will launch local economies across West Virginia toward prosperity. The IRA is a monumental, first-of-its-kind piece of legislation because it offers secure, long-term policy commitments to clean energy initiatives. It allows companies enough time to use the allotted tax credits to develop realistic project timelines and construct facilities throughout the coming years. Recipients can delay construction until 2025 even if their federal contributions are distributed immediately. Less than two weeks after being signed into law, the IRA directly contributed to Riley Properties’ new solar grid at its Fairmont, West Virginia facility in Marion County. The IRA contributed $13,701 toward this clean energy project, which is projected to reduce the building’s annual power cost by $3,168. This pioneering investment is only the beginning of the IRA’s potential to provide substantial renewable energy credits at the commercial power grid level. Additionally, brownfield sites are returning to their former glory as they’re transformed by new energy projects with support from the IRA. A brownfield site is described as a deactivated energy community that once housed an oil, gas, or coal fueled production facility that provided heavy employment for its local economy. The IRA allows local economies to invest in modernized clean energy sources to build economic stimulation in these once prosperous sites around West Virginia. As such, Marion County has already begun receiving exciting announcements regarding brownfield site reclamation. Mon Power has selected five sites in West Virginia to build and operate solar facilities, one of which is a retired 27-acre ash disposal site in Marion County. Throughout the construction and maintenance phases, Mon Power can employ local labor to get the job done. Marion County residents have already committed to the use of Mon Power’s local substation where the solar energy will be channeled. Investments in future projects like this one, accelerated by IRA credits, will pave the way for affordable, renewable energy that will bring unprecedented economic prowess to Marion County. Congressional work to secure the Inflation Reduction Act has shaped a more prosperous outlook for the hard-working people of Marion County, and it will undoubtedly continue to do so in never-before-seen ways. The IRA will revitalize our entire state, helping us reach cleaner air quality, maintain West Virginia’s status as a leader in energy production, and bring new economic opportunities in renewable energy like Riley Properties’ solar panels and Mon Power’s reclaimed ash disposal site as a commercial-level solar grid in Marion County. A bright and clean dawn is on the horizon in Marion County and across our Mountain State.

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

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New Florida State Bills Highlight Business Opportunities for the Tourism Industry, Electrical Companies, Automobile Dealers & More - Recap of the 2023 Florida Legislative Session

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy and the Lake Area Economic Development (LEAD) co-hosted an update summarizing the clean energy, resilience, and sustainability outcomes from the recent Florida Legislative Session. The recap featured State Senator Jason Brodeur, chair, Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government. Key highlights from the discussion, include:  SB 284: Senator Brodeur discussed this bill that he sponsored and was passed that amends the way the state evaluates the total cost of ownership (TCO) when buying fleet vehicles. Today the metric is miles/gallon of gasoline, which does not address vehicles running on LNG or electricity. Electric vehicles, in particular, are much more available now and already often have a lower total cost of ownership over the lifetime of the vehicle, therefore the state needed to update its purchasing metrics. A portion of SB 284 originally included a revision to the way in which solar and charging projects are permitted. Specifically, Senator Brodeur, sought to have solar and EV charger installers treated similarly to other contractors performing a single function, such as installing a roof, to be eligible for an expedited permitting process. In order to achieve the larger TCO goal of the bill, this provision was eliminated when agreement on the details was not possible. The senator will continue to advocate for this change in the future. Wildlife Corridor: A major milestone for the Florida Legislature and the senator was the passage of the Wildlife Corridor running from Naples to Orlando. There will be walking and bike trails (no cars) connecting this now protected area. This will also create significant opportunities for chambers of commerce/member businesses in terms of increased tourism dollars, and will reduce carbon emissions via preservation of the land and flora. Sustainable waters: The Florida Legislature also passed new rules with respect to failing septic systems and pollution of waterways. In conjunction with these rules, Florida is also introducing oyster and clam fishing as tools to remediate contaminated waters. These measures will address numerous issues and help protect the manatee population. The senator touched on additional issues, including prescription drugs and homeowners insurance. View the full 30-minute session here. For a recap on the wide array of electrified cars and trucks available today, check out the video of EV Day at the Capitol.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Alan Byrd.

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More than 300 business leaders attend inaugural Greater Cleveland Partnership’s Sustainability Summit

On January 24th more than 300 businesses attended the sold-out inaugural Greater Cleveland Partnership Sustainability Summit at the Huntington Convention Center. This article was published by the Greater Cleveland Partnership and written by Laura DeMarco on January 24, 2023.

Sustainability. It’s not just a buzzword. But what, exactly, is it, and why should businesses care?

More than 300 business leaders and stakeholders gathered at the inaugural Greater Cleveland Partnership Sustainability Summit at the Huntington Convention Center on Tuesday to discuss the importance of being All In on sustainability for business growth and regional impact — and steps and resources to get there.

“Yesterday and today, Greater Cleveland, with its abundant natural resources, strong business base and visionary leaders can — and will — be a site for sustainable transformation and growth,” said Greater Cleveland Partnership President and CEO Baiju Shah to open the event. “As home to 20% of the world’s fresh water in our Great Lakes region, it is imperative that sustainability become a part of all that we do. Our region has extraordinary potential, which we can realize by working together.”

The keynote speech, “Sustainability Trends, Challenges and Opportunities,” was delivered by Chris Laszlo, professor of organizational behavior at Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management.

“The way we need to think about sustainability and ESG is in terms of value creation,” said Laszlo. “It drives business innovation and needs to be integrated into core business strategies and operations.”

“Are you inspiring people? Are you influencing industry standards?” he challenged the audience.

The summit brought together sustainability leaders from large companies and small and mid-size enterprises, experts and thought leaders for educational discussions. It consisted of panels and breakout tracks for both large companies and SMEs.

Topics ranged from “Meeting Stakeholder Expectations and Targets,” to “What Your Customers Need You to Know,” “Sustainability 101” and “Innovation and Sustainability for Large Companies.”

Chris Laszlo, professor of organizational behavior at Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management, delivered the Summit keynote.

Attendee Taylor Evans, CEO of Workforce LLC, praised the Summit for “putting sustainability at the forefront of conversation,” noting its increasing importance in attracting workforce talent.

“The impact of sustainability on employee morale and retention is both remarkable and undeniable. By creating a workplace that is both purpose driven and mindful of its environmental impact, you are leaning into a long term strategy that will undoubtedly have a positive long term impact on the bottom line.

“Companies that adopt and implement a triple bottom line business model, which can be challenging for a company to do in totality, will ultimately mean that they are All In for all of their constituents (shareholders, employees and the Earth) in the long run.”

Panelists included representatives of many of the region’s largest corporations. The “Company Benefits of Sustainable Practices” panel, moderated by Elad Granot, PH.D., Dean of the Boler College of Business at John Carroll University, featured leaders from Lubrizol, Cleveland Cliffs, Blue CSR Strategies and the City of Cleveland.

Elizabeth Grove, Chief Sustainability Officer at Lubrizol, spoke to the importance of companies integrating sustainability into both their carbon footprint and “handprint.”

“At Lubrizol, we are reducing our carbon footprint, and also leveraging sustainability in our handprint, in the products we make,” she said, noting they expect the same from their suppliers. “The benefit is … co-operation in the supply chain.”

Patrick Bloom, Vice President, Government Relation at Cleveland Cliffs, spoke to the potential of sustainability to turn back the “tide of globalization,” citing the EV supply chain as beneficial for American businesses.

Shah emphasized the Summit is just the beginning of an essential new market movement, one which requires the community to work together.

“Building a Great GREEN Region on a Great Lake will take all of us, working All In,” he said. “Sustainability is essential for dynamic business growth, as experts will share today. Businesses are rapidly learning that sustainability is not optional. It’s the way of the future. Large, mid-size and small companies that embrace sustainability will have a competitive advantage. Leveraging technology and innovation leads to growth throughout the supply chain. We want all businesses to leave today’s Summit inspired to grow — and informed about resources that can help them do so.”

Key Elements in the Rebuilding Efforts of Sanibel & Captiva and for Leading Florida Developers

One of the first things people saw when arriving on Sanibel Island was the Chamber of Commerce, whose building greeted visitors and locals on the main road for years.  Six months ago, Hurricane Ian brought ferocious winds and storm surge to Florida’s southwest coast and the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce’s building suffered significant damage, with flood waters overtaking the first floor. During a webinar hosted by Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy February 16, the chair of the chamber board, Calli Johnson, gave a short update on her family business, Bailey’s General Store, and on the chamber. “Our store had six to eight feet of storm surge, which pushed the hurricane-rated doors in and bent the block,” she says. “The interesting thing was, even though we had significant roof failure, the solar panels survived except for some damage from flying debris.” Like all of Sanibel and Captiva, Bailey’s General Store was already becoming energy independent and more resilient. About 20 percent of the building’s energy was from rooftop solar and solar shades in the parking lot.  “I want to do the right thing for my kids and their future,” Johnson says. “As we rebuild, we’re building only on the second story, adding new solar and solar shade structures to meet energy demands. We would like to get 100 percent of our needs met.” Before Ian, the chamber embraced clean energy, holding events on it, supporting the Renewable Energy Working Group, and showcasing how chambers can lead in embracing resilience, sustainability and clean energy.  Currently, the chamber is a central force in uniting the community and a leader on the community’s resilience committee, formed to rebuild to be even more resilient during storms. The webinar itself focused on two large community developers in Florida, Kitson Partners, which developed Babcock Ranch near Fort Myers, and Avalon Park Group, which owns communities in Orlando, Wesley Chapel and Tavares and is planning Avalon Park Daytona Beach. During the webinar, co-hosted by Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce and the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, key executives from Kitson and Avalon shared how they create more sustainable and resilient communities. Avalon Park reduces carbon emissions by creating walkable neighborhoods with everything from school to work located close to homes. Through a partnership with the utility, Babcock has 150MWs of solar capacity, generating more energy than consumed by the community. Hurricane Ian passed over Babcock Ranch as a category 4 storm. The community did not lose power. Back in Sanibel, the chamber stressed the island is open. Repairs to the chamber are nearly complete. Captiva didn’t experience as much storm surge, so many businesses are still open just as before the storm. Others throughout the islands are in temporary spaces or utilize second story spaces.  “We’re excited to have a place for businesses to just show up with what they need for the day,” Johnson says about the chamber offices. “I’m amazed at how much recovery has taken place. There are places to come for lunch and places to stay and I’d like to welcome anyone to come visit. She adds: “Come visit us – it’s the best way to help.” Watch the full webinar here.

If you would like to learn more about clean energy opportunities in your community, please contact Alan Byrd.

Knox County Chamber event raises question: How might solar energy benefit Knox County?

Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy partnered with the Knox County Chamber of Commerce as they hosted a lunch and learn on January 26 at The Gallagher Centre about the upcoming solar development in Knox County; including a panel of experienced leaders who shared the economic and community benefits of utility-scale solar, as well as the regulatory process for solar developments.This article was published by Knox Pages on January 27, 2023.

MOUNT VERNON — How could Knox County become energy independent? That was the topic of discussion at the Knox Chamber of Commerce Event Thursday afternoon at the Gallagher Centre. "As we talk about solar, it's really about energy independence, right?" Brian Dicken, with Toledo's Regional Chamber of Commerce, said. "And we certainly see gas prices fluctuate pretty wildly over the past couple of years. International issues come into play. "When you talk about wind, solar, certainly natural gas and oil are big in Ohio. It all fits within that energy portfolio."  Dicken's example for renewable energy was a 500-megawatt power plant that takes between 18 to 24 months to construct. Such a plant would bring in between 400 to 500 jobs, not all permanent. "But for that year and a half, you're gonna have those individuals working in your communities, come to your restaurants, getting their cars worked on," he said. "So there's certainly a local benefit to that."  The question remained: How do communities become interested and willing participants in solar energy?  "As we're trying to develop the industry, how do we get people interested and be prepared to maybe build that next solo project?" Dicken said. "Sometimes we hear about the infrastructure. Companies are required to restore roads and other infrastructure that may be disrupted during that. That's a requirement that they have to fulfill."  Some of the tax money that comes from renewable energy goes back to local schools, Dicken said. He also touched on the economic effect that the solar panel supply chain can bring, using the example of Perrysville-based company First Solar.  "They have more than 200 supply decks across the state," Dicken said. "You may know somebody who works as part of the solar supply chain. They may not be building the panel but certainly those component and services that come into it."  In return, it can make Ohio attractive for future sustainable energy businesses, Dicken said. Matt Butler, public information officer with Ohio Power Siting Board, spoke on how renewable energy projects are processed and approved by the state. "Our job is to review energy projects across the state before any developer can construct one of those facilities," Butler said. The board is comprised of some voting members, directors of state agencies from Ohio EPA, the department of agriculture, development, natural resources and health. A seventh board member is a public professional engineer appointed by the governor, Butler said. When renewable projects are involved, two additional votes come from the township affected and one from the county.  The board's process, consisting of an application, public hearings and approving or disapproving the project, generally takes about a year to complete for solar projects, Butler said.  Every project has to establish a "complaint resolution process," which is a way for community members to voice their concerns.  "If there's a land owner who has concerns that a field tile was broken on the of the property, and that is creating drainage issues on his neighboring property, that's going to be taken care of," Butler said. "In fact, we have a standard condition that requires them to repair at their expense. "You might wonder if a 25- to 30-year-end of life facility like this, what's going to happen (then)? Is this just gonna be left her in the ground for us to deal with as a community or as a landowner? And that's not the case." A decommissioning bond is required, that's put in place up front for the full replacement value of the facility with the bond adjusting every five years, Butler said. The bond would be used to take the facility up out of the ground and restore it to its preexisting use.

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