Renewable Energy Considerations Impact Economic Development

On a global level, the business debate over environmental responsibility or ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) is becoming readily visible on Wall Street. Recent news stories on subjects ranging from Bitcoin to Exxon, show organizations are feeling the effects of public and political pressure in dollars and cents, with stock prices falling for those who are not strategically working on sustainability efforts.

Renewable energy is no longer a social discussion, but a business discussion with a lot of money and opportunities to follow. Large corporations are now looking to their contractors to be mindful of sustainability. Like most business trends, this will likely trickle down to smaller businesses as pressure grows to be more environmentally-conscious.

Two recent requests for proposals for the region, fielded by the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, were for companies citing renewable energy options as important factors in their decision-making process on where to locate. Utilities like Alliant Energy are hard at work on aspirational goals like net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 for the electricity they generate. Learn along with us as we host a panel of utility experts to discuss the renewable energy trends and why this is important to business and economic development. The Trends in Renewable Energy Panel will be from 12:00-1:00 PM on August 10. Join us by registering at www.cedarrapids.org/events/calendar.

Panelists include:

– Mayuri Farlinger, Alliant Energy – Interstate Power and Light Co.

– Greg Luerkens, Amana Society, Inc.

– Kimberly Dickey, Nextera Duane Arnold Energy Center

– James Hoeger, Eagle Point Solar