Want to understand how North Carolina became a clean energy leader and what's next for the state? Join Matt Abele from the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA) as he discusses the key policies and advocacy driving their success, the challenges they face like proposed legislation rollbacks, and their optimistic vision for a continued transition to a cleaner energy future.
The main topics discussed were
- An overview of the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA), its mission as a non-profit policy advocacy organization, and its membership.
- he importance of policy and regulation in driving clean energy deployment in North Carolina, citing historical examples like the Renewable Energy Standard and recent legislation like House Bill 951, as well as the role of the Utilities Commission and the Carbon Plan.
- The current legislative challenge posed by Senate Bill 261, which seeks to roll back carbon emission reduction targets and introduce "construction work in progress" provisions, and NCSEA's opposition to it due to potential negative impacts on ratepayers.
- The positive momentum and economic benefits of the clean energy sector in North Carolina, including job creation and significant economic impact, and the optimism for continued progress despite potential headwinds.
- Other important initiatives, such as the microgrid work in western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene and the upcoming Making Energy Work Conference, as well as how to get involved with NCSEA's work.
