American Clean Power Association commits to expand opportunities for workers from disadvantaged communities
Speaking for its more than 700 member companies, the American Clean Power Association (ACP) announced a commitment to expand opportunities for workers of disadvantaged and historically left behind communities through a new Energy Transition for All initiative.
Declaring the ongoing transition toward clean energy unprecedented in the United States, APL CEO Heather Zichal said the measure to be one of equitability among renewables, with a local focus. Renewable energy currently accounts for approximately 13 percent of electricity generation in the United States, but by the end of the decade, APL estimated that as much as 50 percent of electricity produced nationwide could come from clean energy.
If those figures hold, it would mean the potential for as many as 500,000 new jobs and $700 billion in new investment.
“If undertaken thoughtfully, this transition will be an unparalleled opportunity to create a better future for everyone, offering greater access to clean and affordable energy along with expanding economic growth and opportunities for investment and innovation. With the launch of this initiative, ACP member companies across the wind, solar, transmission, and energy storage technologies are committing to this vision for an equitable Energy Transition for All.”
An Energy Transition for All report that coincided with the launch of the initiative identified needed actions and responsibilities for the industry built on several pillars: expanding opportunity for workers, creating value for communities through local development as well as investments and supply chains, and guaranteeing workforce and leadership in the renewable industry is inclusive, to make it representative of the communities it operates in. Overall, the initiative is being designed to promote a diverse workforce in the clean power sector and encourage local economic development.
The initiative will span years, and member companies will partner with local and national organizations and policymakers to realize its goals.
“There is no single solution to ensure a successful energy transition,” Zichal said. “It will take coordination from policymakers, community leaders, and industry to ensure that the transition is equitable and that everyone shares in the economic growth and opportunity. As an industry, we are committed to playing our part in creating a better future for everyone and an energy transition for all.”
