Source: Clean Energy Business Network, April 30, 2020
| Last week, we announced our new webinar with BCSE, Powering Forward. Episode 2 is scheduled for May 20th. We also launched our COVID-19 Small Business Resource Center. This week, the Senate plans to return to DC on Monday, the House will delay its return, and BNEF reports that solar and wind are the cheapest sources of energy. FEATURED CONTENT ICYMI: CEBN COVID-19 small business resource center Last week, we announced our COVID-19 Small Business Resource Center, which aggregates federal, state, and other financial relief resources for businesses. We also asked that you spend 3-4 minutes on our brief COVID-19 Economic Impacts Survey. Your participation will help inform recommendations to policymakers about assistance to the cleantech community. CEBN/BCSE’s Powering Forward, Episode 2 Don’t miss the second installment of BCSE & CEBN’s webinar series, Clean Energy Economy: Decade of Growth, First Quarter in Crisis. Learn about the long-term trends that have taken place across the energy sector along with the latest insights on how the COVID-19 crisis has impacted clean energy in the first quarter of 2020. Solar and wind = cheapest sources of new energy generation The latest research released by BloombergNEF indicates that solar PV and offshore wind are the cheapest sources of new-build energy generation for two-thirds of the global population. MEMBER CONNECTIONS Chaac Technologies launches campaign with Wells of Life Chaac, a Utah-based startup producing a clean water and power technology, has teamed up with Wells of Life on a campaign to help communities in Uganda overcome the COVID-19 crisis. This initiative seeks to help lower the barrier for clean water access, combat COVID-19 in Uganda, and achieve global sustainability. Learn more and donate to this cause here. FEDERAL POLICY UPDATE |
Senate returns on Monday, McConnell weighs next relief bill
The Senate will return to Washington on Monday as Republicans are expected to push for liability protection for companies in the next relief package. While McConnell initially signaled he would favor states file for bankruptcy rather than provide Federal support in a stimulus, he has walked back these statements. He also signaled he would not support infrastructure in this next bill.
House delays return, Pelosi gears up for state & local relief
House leadership opted to delay returning to Washington amid health concerns for Members and staff. Several committees will hold hearings next week before the whole chamber returns, including the Appropriations Committee. Meanwhile, Pelosi has signaled that state and local governments have sought $1 trillion in relief as part of the next COVID-19 package.
Uncertainty mounts as WH mulls oil & gas relief options
The Administration is reportedly considering several approaches to providing relief to the oil and gas sector as the industry faces evaporating demand. Options include stocking up the strategic petroleum reserve, royalty relief, and a dedicated fund to provide loans to firms. The CEBN will continue to track these developments, as the clean energy sector may be impacted to varying degrees by the policy implications and related negotiations in an eventual stimulus.
| FUNDING OPPORTUNITY Duke University Business Relief Database Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business has compiled a database of financial relief resources for businesses impacted by COVID-19. Access the database here. |
| VIRTUAL EVENTS |
Pitch Practice Workshop: Pitching in a Virtual Environment
On My 14, join Potential Energy DC for their “Pitch Night Practice & Peer Feedback Workshop in a Virtual Environment.” Cleantech and sustainability entrepreneurs will practice, receive peer feedback, and re-run pitches with a focus on engaging potential investors in a virtual forum. PEDC will hold its Summer Pitch Night on June 4 with a panel of judges evaluating participants.
youngStartup Ventures: Venture Summit Virtual Connect
Join youngStartup Ventures for this engaging and immersive [live] interactive virtual summit providing startups the opportunity to gain the visibility they need and investors access to vetted deal flow. This event from May 5-7 intends to connect cutting-edge innovators and leading investors. Use code “CEBNVIP” to receive a 35% discount at checkout.
Other Events and Activities:
- Regional Clean Energy Innovation: Policy and Economic Opportunity, May 1
- COVID-19 Impact on Solar, May 7
| ENERGY NEWS |
CA: Solar and energy storage installers are essential workers
Solar Power World
CO: Updated plan unveiled for 1M electric vehicles by 2030
U.S. News
DE: New effort to require utilities to up solar, wind electricity
Delaware Online
IL: Chicago requires new construction to include EV charging
Utility Dive
TX: Houston unveils first Climate Action Plan
Utility Dive