News Summary

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s Future of Energy and Sustainability event showcased Georgia’s commitment to clean tech and innovation. Key speakers highlighted sustainable practices from industry leaders and discussed job growth in the clean tech sector. Despite challenges, collaboration among stakeholders aims to advance Georgia’s clean energy landscape, supported by significant investments in electric vehicles and solar manufacturing. The event emphasized the importance of partnerships in fostering sustainable economic development.

Atlanta, Georgia – The Georgia Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its third annual Future of Energy and Sustainability event, spotlighting the state’s dedication to clean technology, innovation, resilience, and progressive business practices. This year’s gathering took place at the headquarters of The Coca-Cola Company, a firm noted for its commitment to sustainability in operations.

The annual event included notable speakers such as Annalisa Bloodworth, President & CEO of Oglethorpe Power, and Josh Raglin, Chief Sustainability Officer at Norfolk Southern. They discussed the vital roles of their respective companies in driving sustainable energy solutions. Bloodworth outlined efforts to provide affordable and sustainable energy for 38 member cooperatives, while Raglin emphasized investments in low-carbon fuels and renewable energy, reflecting a broader trend within Georgia’s clean tech landscape.

According to Chris Clark, the President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber, partnerships between various stakeholders are essential for fostering sustainable economic growth. Savannah Taylor, Research Director of the Georgia Chamber Foundation, reinforced this message by detailing how Georgia businesses are increasingly investing in sustainable initiatives. The event featured informative sessions, including discussions on innovations in Georgia forestry and the transformation of the energy grid.

Georgia’s clean tech sector continues to show significant job growth, employing over 82,000 workers by the end of 2024. The industry encompasses various fields, including energy-efficient appliances with 58,067 jobs, renewable energy generation with 11,162 jobs, electric vehicles providing 7,821 jobs, and energy storage and power grids offering 4,593 jobs. The clean energy sector is expanding at a rate twice that of the overall economy in Georgia, highlighting its importance in the state’s job market.

This rapid expansion is supported by significant investments in various projects including Hyundai’s $7.6 billion electric vehicle plant, Rivian’s future factory, and Qcells’ solar manufacturing facility. Collectively, these initiatives contribute to Georgia’s impressive ranking as 15th in the nation for clean tech jobs, which make up about 2.3 percent of the U.S. clean tech workforce. Recent reports indicate a robust pipeline of investments and hiring within Georgia’s clean tech sectors, enhancing the state’s reputation as a leader in the industry.

Despite this growth, challenges remain on the horizon. Potential rollbacks on federal clean energy policies, alongside upcoming political shifts, could pose significant risks to the state’s clean tech gains. Nevertheless, collaboration among corporations, startups, and government entities aims to fortify Georgia’s clean tech ecosystem and ensure continued progress in sustainability.

The Future of Energy and Sustainability event serves not only as a celebration of Georgia’s current advancements but also as a platform for fostering dialogue and partnership in the clean tech arena. The commitment demonstrated by state leaders and businesses alike underscores the importance of innovation and collaborative efforts to drive sustainable economic development in Georgia.