Solving Challenges in the Sustainable Technologies Industry

While everyone is “going green” and the sustainable technologies industry is growing from an emerging concept to a national popular standard, the industry is still facing challenges. Two leading challenges for the U.S. renewable energy and energy efficiency technology industry relate to finances and accessibility to consumers.

The federal government has taken unprecedented steps this year to address the financial challenge, fostering development and investment in the sustainable technologies arena. Government programs are making headlines with new funding opportunities administered through agencies such as the Department of Energy, Department of Agriculture, and others. Several new state and local programs funded through the stimulus bill are targeting this area, and companies are seeking current information on the industry, asking “where is the money?” or “where are the opportunities?”

Texas is also taking strides to address the challenges associated with accessibility. The state has undergone massive energy transmission updates through the CREZ project to help deliver wind energy produced in the more rural areas of the state to the urban population centers who need access to the power. Companies are also developing new cutting-edge battery technologies for electric vehicles and storage devices, therefore making renewable energy even more accessible to the public and energy conservation an attainable goal.

These solutions and industry trends will be addressed at the Chamber’s “2nd Annual Sustainable Technologies Forum” on October 21 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Hotel Intercontinental Dallas. This luncheon program will bring together nearly 200 regional technology and energy executives for two panel discussions focusing on financial and technology solutions for the sustainable technologies industry. Expert speakers include William Bojorquez of Hunt Transmission Services LLC, Ross Goolsby of Valence Technologies, and Cindy Thyfault of Westar Trade Resources.

As a leading region for sustainable technologies development, Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) currently has over 9,000 employees its green economy, placing it within the top 15 metro areas for green jobs across the U.S. Furthermore, DFW is ranked as #1 in renewable energy potential above all states and is also committed to energy efficiency and green building practices.

This “Sustainable Technologies Forum” will provide an opportunity for regional executives to stay educated on the latest industry trends and network with thought and industry leaders who are contributing to strengthening the region’s green economy.

A special thank you to our event sponsors: Gardere Wynne Sewell, Trane Commercial Systems, Westar Trade Resources, Trinity Industries and the University of Texas at Arlington.

This event is part of the Chamber’s Technology Business Council’s Sustainable Technologies Initiative. To learn more about the initiative and this event, visit www.DallasTBC.org.