Source: Clean Energy Business Network, April 16, 2020
| Next Friday, CEBN will co-host a webinar covering FEMA’s new program to support more resilient infrastructure and communities. Don’t forget to RSVP. This week, E2 and BW Research release a report covering the impact of COVID-19 on clean energy jobs, what’s next in funding the PPP, and the EPA keeps air pollution standards constant. FEATURED CONTENT COVID-19 impacts on clean energy sector According to a new report by Environmental Entrepreneurs, with analysis conducted by BW Research, the clean energy sector suffered an estimated loss of 106,400 jobs in March. The report predicts more than a half million more jobs lost this month. PPP funding runs out as Senate remains in a stalemate The $349 billion allocated for small business emergency loans dried up Thursday morning as Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree over the best way to replenish the program. The Senate held a brief session today with no vote on the matter and reconvenes Monday. Congress is considering at least $250B in additional funds. The IRS has updated its FAQ on the program and Intuit has released software to support applications. Meanwhile the Chamber of Commerce will dole out $5,000 grants to small businesses beginning April 20. Webinar: Building Resilient Infrastructure & Communities Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities is a new program through FEMA to help states, local communities, tribes and territories undertake hazard mitigation projects to reduce risks from disasters. Join this webinar on April 24, hosted by the CEBN, Business Council for Sustainable Energy, and National Association of State Energy Officials to learn more about the program and ways it can help communities strengthen energy resilience. FEDERAL POLICY UPDATE Trump administration rejects tightening air quality standards The administration announced Tuesday that it rejected recommendations from EPA scientists to tighten pollution regulations. The decision triggered criticism from lawmakers who pointed to the link between exposure to high particulate matter and risk of death from COVID-19. CEBN comments on science programs related to COVID-19 In response to a call for stakeholder input from the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, CEBN worked with various entrepreneurs and incubators to craft recommendations for potential ways to help entrepreneurs weather and recover from the COVID-19 epidemic. Any such economic recovery packages would not be forthcoming for several months until it is safe for workers to return to their jobs, but initial policy conversations are occurring now. CEBN will keep members posted on other upcoming policy initiatives relating to this crisis and ways to engage. DOE announces $38M towards new ARPA-E program The new Submarine Hydrokinetic And Riverine Kilo-megawatt Systems (SHARKS) program designs economically-attractive hydrokinetic turbines for tidal and riverine currents. NREL’s solar cell sets efficiency record Scientists at DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory have created a six-junction solar cell with an efficiency of 47.1%. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY Pax Momentum Accelerator Pax Momentum is accepting applications for its Fall 2020 Cohort. Twice a year, Pax invites 10 companies to participate, reserving three spots for CleanTech, investing $50,000 in each company and providing opportunities to help with growth. Learn more and apply here. VIRTUAL EVENTS NECEC’s Navigate 2020 Webinar and Podcast Series This four-episode series, in collaboration with CleanCapital, will discuss case studies and provide unique perspectives from cleantech leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs. Other Events and Activities: Electric Power Conference and Exhibition, April 22 International Offshore Wind Partnering Forum, April 21-22 ASES SOLAR 20/20 Renewable Energy Vision, June 23-26 ENERGY NEWS CA: Newest battery project has 100 MW capacity Green Tech Media MS: Commisioners greenlight 1,000 acre solar farm Entergy Newsroom OH: Columbus energy benchmarking ordinance a first for state Energy News Network PA: U Penn signs PPA for 220 MW solar facilities Renewable Energy World WV: New chemical compound lights the way for renewables Science Daily |