The American Clean Power Association (ACP), on behalf of its over 700 member companies, has released its Energy Transition for All initiative – an industry-wide framework to ensure that workers, communities and those historically left behind stand to benefit from the rapid growth of the clean power sector in the United States. The report that outlines the multi-year industry goals was released to launch the initiative.
“The United States is in an unprecedented transition toward a clean energy future,” says Heather Zichal, ACP’s CEO. “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.”
Today, renewable energy represents roughly 13% of electricity generation in the U.S. By 2030, the clean energy industry could account for as much as 50% of the electricity produced in the U.S. – creating 500,000 jobs and attracting $700 billion in new investment.
The Energy Transition for All initiative aims to increase opportunities for workers in disadvantaged areas and to spur local economic development through promotion of diversity and inclusion in the clean power sector.
The Energy Transition for All report lists a series of responsibilities that the clean energy sector should take over the coming years. It focuses on the three pillars listed below. The first pillar increases opportunities for workers, particularly those from historically disadvantaged and transitioning communities. The second creates economic value for communities by facilitating supply chains, targeted investments, and local economic development. The third pillar is about leading in diversity, inclusion, and striving to create a workforce that is representative of the communities in which we operate.
ACP and its member companies will pursue programs across these three areas as part of the multi-year initiative. ACP and its member companies will also partner with national and local organizations and policymakers, providing expertise, implementation support and perspectives, as well as networks that can assist them in a transition to energy for all.
The report also highlights the wide range of programs offered by companies in the clean power sector that provide economic opportunity for transitioning workers and communities, and increase the participation and diversity of underrepresented communities within the industry. ACP views the initiative both as an opportunity and a responsibility to scale best practice and drive a cross sector approach to increase impact in the future.
“There is no single solution to ensure a successful energy transition,” Zichal adds. “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.”