Source: Clean Energy Business Network, April 23, 2020
| The CEBN has created a COVID-19 Small Business Resource Center, which aggregates federal, state, and other financial relief resources for businesses. We have also launched a survey to assess COVID-19 impacts to clean energy businesses and inform the path forward. This week, Congress approves a $484B COVID-19 package, CEBN launches a new webinar series, and CEBN President Lynn Abramson, reflects on the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day. FEATURED CONTENT CEBN unveils COVID-19 small business resource center CEBN staff has compiled a list of financial relief resources for small businesses seeking support. We are also working to add new funding opportunities to our premium members-only Funding Database, and will soon open this up to the entire network. We will continue to update the list of resources as new information becomes available. Please send any additional relevant resources to CEBN staff. CEBN Pres. reflects on Earth Day’s 50th anniversary  Yesterday marked the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Reflecting on the significance of this milestone during a time unlike anything the world has seen before, Lynn Abramson offers her insight on the past decades of clean energy and our sector’s vital role in the years to come. Take the COVID-19 Economic Impacts Survey During the COVID-19 epidemic, we are seeking information on how clean energy businesses are being impacted and how we can best re-emerge into the economy when the public health crisis abates. Results will help inform recommendations to policymakers about the appropriate ways to assist the cleantech community. This brief survey takes 3-4 minutes to complete. CEBN/BCSE launch Power Forward webinar series Powering Forward is a webinar series that examines developments across the U.S. clean energy economy, impacts facing our industries during the COVID-19 crisis, and our role post-COVID. Each episode is produced in collaboration with partners working to advance clean energy, demonstrating that together, we can power forward better, faster. The first installment of this series will cover FEMA’s new program, Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities. Join us to learn how this program can boost energy resilience. FEDERAL POLICY UPDATE |
Senate & House approve $484 billion in new COVID-19 aid
The Federal Government’s fourth relief package, the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act, includes $310 billion to replenish the PPP, $60 billion for SBA emergency disaster loans and grants, $75 billion for hospitals, and $25 billion for coronavirus testing. The President is expected to sign the bill into law imminently. The House also approved the creation of a panel with subpoena power to probe the Coronavirus response.
Treasury: PPP loans intended for borrowers in dire need
In response to news of large companies claiming Paycheck Protection Program loans, Sec. Mnuchin emphasized funds are for businesses in dire need. He warned of consequences for borrowers improperly certifying their need. Treasury released updated guidance clarifying that borrowers must certify in good faith that a loan is “necessary to support the ongoing operations of the Applicant” given a borrower’s ability to access other sources of liquidity.
Senate to postpone legislating on next relief bill
Shortly after the most recent recovery bill passed the Senate, Majority Leader McConnell announced any future legislation for COVID-19 relief will require the full Senate to be in session. The Senate has tentative plans to return to Washington on May 4th.
| VIRTUAL EVENTS |
VSVC Venture Summit, May 5-7
Join leading VCs, Angel Investors and over 100 Top Innovators at this virtual summit. One-on-One investor meetings, panel discussions, workshops and a keynote by Uri Levine, co-founder of Waze. Register here and receive 35% off with discount code: CEBNVIP
Other Events and Activities:
- International Offshore Wind Partnering Forum, April 21-22
- AXIOS Small Business Matters: The Path to Recovery, April 23
- Build Back Better: Public Transport and COVID-19 Recovery, April 24
- Regional Clean Energy Innovation: Policy and Economic Opportunity, May 1
| ENERGY NEWS |
U.S.: Oil prices collapse, clean energy impacts uncertain
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CA: PG&E proposes battery projects to replace fossil fuel plant
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CO: 60 MW solar project to power Colorado Springs customers
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MN: Despite pandemic, work continues for solar installers
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NJ: Strategic Funding Plan released, includes green bank
NJ.gov
NY: Residents at home are paid to reduce energy consumption
Green Tech Media