A clear challenge has been issued to the nation to respond to our growing oil dependence and the escalating climate crisis, through investment, innovation, and an expanded program to commercialize clean technology research and create new energy alternatives.
There are numerous energy assets in the Chesapeake Crescent region. The Crescent Region is home to the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Energy and myriad energy- and environmentally-based non-profit organizations and corporations. Additionally, the Region has one of the largest “green collar” workforces in the country with nearly 14,000 environmental workers such as conservationists, environmental scientists, and wildlife biologists. Area universities possess a number of competencies in the energy arena.
However, the Chesapeake Crescent Region requires more investment to become a global leader in energy technologies and innovation-based businesses. The compelling need for energy independence and for responses to global climate change is challenging the nation to convert to, invest in and create alternative forms of energy, to make its electrical grid smart, adaptive and interactive, and to incent all Americans to conserve energy as never before. As the seat of the Federal government, the Chesapeake Crescent Region should be a national model for solving these challenges.
CCI is actively engaged in making its vision become a reality for the Region through the Energy Efficiency & Green Jobs Working Group, and the Smart Grid/Electric Vehicles Working Group.