President-Elect Barack Obama reiterated his plans to create millions of new green jobs at a press conference in Chicago yesterday. Obama also introduced members of his new energy and environment team.
Below is a complete transcript of the President-Elect’s Remarks, along with video footage from the press conference:
Remarks of President-Elect Barack Obama
As Prepared for Delivery
Announcement of Energy and Environment Team
December 15, 2008
Chicago, Illinois
Good afternoon. Over the past few weeks, Vice President-Elect Biden and I have announced key members of our economic and national security teams. In the 21st century, we know that the future of our economy and national security is inextricably linked to one challenge: energy. So today, we’re pleased to introduce the team that will lead our efforts on energy and the environment.
In the next few years, the choices that we make will help determine the kind of country – and world – that we will leave to our children and grandchildren. All of us know the problems rooted in our addiction to foreign oil – it constrains our economy, shifts wealth to hostile regimes, and leaves us dependent on unstable regions. These urgent dangers are eclipsed only by the long-term threat of climate change, which – unless we act – will lead to drought and famine abroad, devastating weather patterns and terrible storms on our shores, and the disappearance of our coastline at home.
For over three decades, we’ve listened to a growing chorus of warnings about our energy dependence. We’ve heard President after President promise to chart a new course. We’ve heard Congress talk about energy independence, only to pull up short in the face of opposition from special interests. We’ve seen Washington launch policy after policy. Yet our dependence on foreign oil has only grown, even as the world’s resources are disappearing.
This time must be different. This time we cannot fail, nor be lulled into complacency simply because the price at the pump has – for now – gone down from $4 a gallon. To control our own destiny, America must develop new forms of energy and new ways of using it. This is not a challenge for government alone – it is a challenge for all of us. The pursuit of a new energy economy requires a sustained, all-hands-on-deck effort because the foundation of our energy independence is right here, in America – in the power of wind and solar; in new crops and new technologies; in the innovation of our scientists and entrepreneurs, and the dedication and skill of our workforce. Those are the resources we must harness to move beyond our oil addiction and create a new, hybrid economy.
As we face this challenge, we can seize boundless opportunities for our people. We can create millions of jobs, starting with a 21st Century Economic Recovery Plan that puts Americans to work building wind farms, solar panels, and fuel-efficient cars. We can spark the dynamism of our economy through long term investments in renewable energy that will give life to new businesses and industries, with good jobs that pay well and can’t be outsourced. We will make public buildings more efficient, modernize our electric grid, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect and preserve our natural resources.
We must also recognize that the solution to global climate change must be global. I spoke a few days ago with Senator John Kerry, who updated me on the recent climate negotiations in Poland. Just as we work to reduce our own emissions, we must forge international solutions to ensure that every nation is doing its part. As we do so, America will lead not just at the negotiating table – we will lead, as we always have, through innovation and discovery; through hard work and the pursuit of a common purpose.
The team that I have assembled here today is uniquely suited to meet the great challenges of this defining moment. They are leading experts and accomplished managers, and they are ready to reform government and help transform our economy so that our people are more prosperous, our nation is more secure, and our planet is protected.
Dr. Steven Chu is a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who has been working at the cutting edge of our nation’s effort to develop new and cleaner forms of energy. He blazed new trails as a scientist, teacher, and administrator, and has recently led the Berkeley National Laboratory in pursuit of new alternative and renewable energies. Steven is uniquely-suited to be our next Secretary of Energy as we make this pursuit a guiding purpose of the Department of Energy, as well as a national mission. The scientists at our national labs will have a distinguished peer at the helm. His appointment should send a signal to all that my Administration will value science, we will make decisions based on the facts, and we understand that the facts demand bold action.
For my Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, I have chosen Lisa Jackson. Lisa has spent a lifetime in public service at the local, state and federal level. As Commissioner of New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection, she has helped make her state a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing new sources of energy, and she has the talent and experience to continue this effort at the EPA. Lisa also shares my commitment to restoring the EPA’s robust role in protecting our air, water and abundant natural resources so that our environment is cleaner and our communities are safer.
Nancy Sutley will be an integral part of this team as the Chair of my Council on Environmental Quality in the White House. In recent years, we have seen states and cities take the initiative in forging innovative solutions on energy. Nancy has been at the cutting edge of this effort – working as a Regional Administrator for the EPA, at the state level in Sacramento, and recently as the Deputy Mayor for Energy and the Environment in Los Angeles. Now, she will bring this unique experience to Washington, and be a key player in helping to make our government more efficient, and coordinating our efforts to protect our environment at home and around the globe.
Finally, the scope of the effort before us will demand coordination across the government, and my personal engagement as President. That is why I’m naming Carol Browner to a new post in the White House to coordinate energy and climate policy. Carol understands that our efforts to create jobs, achieve energy security and combat climate change demand integration among different agencies; cooperation between federal, state and local governments; and partnership with the private sector. She brings the unmatched experience of being a successful and longest-serving Administrator of the EPA. She will be indispensable in implementing an ambitious and complex energy policy.
Later this week, I will be announcing my designee for Secretary of the Interior, which will fill out my energy and environmental team. The Interior Department will play a critical role in meeting the challenges that I have discussed today.
Looking ahead, I am confident that we will be ready to begin the journey towards a new energy frontier on January 20th. This will be a leading priority of my presidency, and a defining test of our time. We cannot afford complacency, nor accept any more broken promises. We won’t create a new energy economy and protect our environment overnight, but we can begin that work right now if we think anew, and act anew. Now, we must have the will to act, and to act boldly.
Thank you.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
Al Gore, Barack Obama Talk About Green Jobs & Global Warming - The Green Jobs Report
Former Vice President Al Gore talked about how the fight against global warming could help create millions of new green jobs as he addressed the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poznan, Poland last week.
“…we hear the reports that leaders once resistant to fiscal stimulus are now calling for massive new initiatives to create jobs in ways that also reduce CO2 and the Secretary general of the United Nations who has provided such tremendous leadership for the world in this process has himself called for what he terms a green new deal in the world,” Gore told international leaders gathered for the Conference in Poznan.
“As we start making these changes, we will see that they do strengthen our economies, they do create millions of new jobs, and they do improve the standard of living,” he noted later in his speech.
The former V.P. also made reference to green jobs when discussing to his recent meeting with U.S. President-Elect Barack Obama.
“Just prior to coming here to Poznan, I went to Chicago for a meeting with president-elect Barack Obama and he emphasized that the climate crisis will be a top priority of his administration,” he said. “We discussed how to create millions of new jobs in a new clean energy economy, and he emphasized that once he is president, the United States will once again engage vigorously in these negotiations and help lead toward a successful conclusion.”
Gore met with Obama and Vice President-Elect Joe Biden last week to discuss the climate crisis, as well as approaches to solving the nation’s dual economic and energy crises.
After the meeting Obama had this to say:
"This is a matter of urgency and national security...[but] it is not only a problem, it is also an opportunity," President-elect Obama said. "We have the opportunity now to create jobs all across this country in all 50 states to repower America, to redesign how we use energy and think about how we are increasing efficiency to make our economy stronger, make us more safe, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and make us competitive for decades to come -- even as we save the planet."
Al Gore has been a leading political force in the movement to stop global warming for many years now. The arrival of the Obama administration in the White House will offer Gore and other environmentalists a real opportunity to make progress in their fight to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create new green jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
“…we hear the reports that leaders once resistant to fiscal stimulus are now calling for massive new initiatives to create jobs in ways that also reduce CO2 and the Secretary general of the United Nations who has provided such tremendous leadership for the world in this process has himself called for what he terms a green new deal in the world,” Gore told international leaders gathered for the Conference in Poznan.“As we start making these changes, we will see that they do strengthen our economies, they do create millions of new jobs, and they do improve the standard of living,” he noted later in his speech.
The former V.P. also made reference to green jobs when discussing to his recent meeting with U.S. President-Elect Barack Obama.
“Just prior to coming here to Poznan, I went to Chicago for a meeting with president-elect Barack Obama and he emphasized that the climate crisis will be a top priority of his administration,” he said. “We discussed how to create millions of new jobs in a new clean energy economy, and he emphasized that once he is president, the United States will once again engage vigorously in these negotiations and help lead toward a successful conclusion.”
Gore met with Obama and Vice President-Elect Joe Biden last week to discuss the climate crisis, as well as approaches to solving the nation’s dual economic and energy crises.
After the meeting Obama had this to say:
"This is a matter of urgency and national security...[but] it is not only a problem, it is also an opportunity," President-elect Obama said. "We have the opportunity now to create jobs all across this country in all 50 states to repower America, to redesign how we use energy and think about how we are increasing efficiency to make our economy stronger, make us more safe, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and make us competitive for decades to come -- even as we save the planet."
Al Gore has been a leading political force in the movement to stop global warming for many years now. The arrival of the Obama administration in the White House will offer Gore and other environmentalists a real opportunity to make progress in their fight to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create new green jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
$3.7 Million Tax Credit Helps Global Wind Systems Inc. Bring 807 New Green Jobs to Michigan
The wind power start-up Global Wind Systems Inc. has chosen Michigan as the site of its first facility, according to information released by Governor Jennifer Granholm. The move is expected to create 807 new green jobs statewide, including 356 working directly with the company.
The new facility will be located in Novi, Michigan. The company will receive a state tax credit worth around $7.3 million for bringing its business to Michigan, thanks to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
The new facility will be located in Novi, Michigan. The company will receive a state tax credit worth around $7.3 million for bringing its business to Michigan, thanks to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
Hemlock Semiconductor Group Plans to Create Up to 2,900 New Green Jobs In Michigan and Tennessee
The Hemlock Semiconductor group announced plans today to create as many as 2,900 new green jobs in Michigan and Tennessee. The group will invest up to $3 billion to ramp up production of polycrystalline silicon, a key material used in the manufacturing of solar cells.
Plans to build a new facility in Clarksville, Tennessee are expected to create 1000 new construction jobs, and up to 800 permanent jobs once construction is completed.
Operations in Hemlock, Michigan will also be expanded, creating 800 new construction jobs and as many as 300 new permanent jobs.
“Making this investment in today’s volatile economic climate is a testament to both the long-term outlook of the solar industry, as well as Hemlock Semiconductor’s ability to add capacity to meet the needs of customers,” said Rick Doornbos, President and CEO of Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation.
Plans to build a new facility in Clarksville, Tennessee are expected to create 1000 new construction jobs, and up to 800 permanent jobs once construction is completed.
Operations in Hemlock, Michigan will also be expanded, creating 800 new construction jobs and as many as 300 new permanent jobs.
“Making this investment in today’s volatile economic climate is a testament to both the long-term outlook of the solar industry, as well as Hemlock Semiconductor’s ability to add capacity to meet the needs of customers,” said Rick Doornbos, President and CEO of Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation.
Governor Kaine Launches Initiative to Create New Green Jobs for Virginia
Last week, Governor Timothy Kaine announced the launch of a new initiative, “Renew Virginia” designed to create new green jobs for Virginia. A press release described the Governor’s plan to stimulate economic growth through programs that will attract renewable energy companies, protect the environment, and make Virginia a leader in energy efficiency and conservation.
"In today's economy, we can turn our energy challenges into an opportunity," Governor Kaine said. "Our goal is to position the Commonwealth as a leader in alternative energy generation, energy conservation, and research and development. By developing a green energy industry here, we will not only move towards a more environmentally responsible approach to addressing our growing energy needs, but we will also help stimulate Virginia's economy."
Governor Kaine realizes that the best way to create new jobs is to invest in the technologies that will drive our nation’s economy in the future. He joins a growing chorus of leaders who understand that the goals of environmental protection and economic growth can be achieved together.
"In today's economy, we can turn our energy challenges into an opportunity," Governor Kaine said. "Our goal is to position the Commonwealth as a leader in alternative energy generation, energy conservation, and research and development. By developing a green energy industry here, we will not only move towards a more environmentally responsible approach to addressing our growing energy needs, but we will also help stimulate Virginia's economy."
Governor Kaine realizes that the best way to create new jobs is to invest in the technologies that will drive our nation’s economy in the future. He joins a growing chorus of leaders who understand that the goals of environmental protection and economic growth can be achieved together.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Solar Array Ventures May Bring 500 New Green Jobs to Fulton, New York
Solar Array Ventures may pick Fulton, New York as the site of a new production plant that will produce solar panels, according to a press release issue by Senator Charles Schumer. The plant will create as many as 500 new green jobs in Oswego County if Schumer has his way. The Senator is working hard to convince the company’s leadership to choose Fulton for the site of the new plant.
“A new solar panel plant in Fulton would be a win-win for the region and the company – Central New York offers the finest work force, critical space and key financial incentives for the company, and the new plant would create hundreds of new jobs and give a shot in the arm to the local economy,” Schumer was quoted as saying in the release.
Solar Arrays Ventures is a start-up company based out of Austin, Texas. The company expects to initially hire 250 people to work at its production plant, followed by an additional 250 workers in the second phase of the project.
The Green Jobs Report provides news, information, and analysis of the impact of green-collar jobs on the U.S. economy.
“A new solar panel plant in Fulton would be a win-win for the region and the company – Central New York offers the finest work force, critical space and key financial incentives for the company, and the new plant would create hundreds of new jobs and give a shot in the arm to the local economy,” Schumer was quoted as saying in the release.
Solar Arrays Ventures is a start-up company based out of Austin, Texas. The company expects to initially hire 250 people to work at its production plant, followed by an additional 250 workers in the second phase of the project.
The Green Jobs Report provides news, information, and analysis of the impact of green-collar jobs on the U.S. economy.
Monday, December 8, 2008
President-elect Barack Obama Plans to Create New Green Jobs by Investing in Energy Efficient Schools & Buildings
During his weekly address on Saturday, President-elect Barack Obama discussed plans to create new green jobs by investing in programs to make the nation's government buildings and schools more energy efficient. The remarks came as Obama detailed parts of his plan to stimulate the U.S. economy.
Investment in energy efficient can also help the government save taxpayer dollars by eliminating unnecessary energy costs, according to the President-elect.
Here are a few highlights from the address:
“First, we will launch a massive effort to make public buildings more energy-efficient. Our government now pays the highest energy bill in the world. We need to change that. We need to upgrade our federal buildings by replacing old heating systems and installing efficient light bulbs. That won’t just save you, the American taxpayer, billions of dollars each year. It will put people back to work.”
“Third, my economic recovery plan will launch the most sweeping effort to modernize and upgrade school buildings that this country has ever seen. We will repair broken schools, make them energy-efficient, and put new computers in our classrooms. Because to help our children compete in a 21st century economy, we need to send them to 21st century schools.”
The Green Jobs Report provides news, information, and analysis about how green-collar jobs can help jumpstart our nation's economy.
Investment in energy efficient can also help the government save taxpayer dollars by eliminating unnecessary energy costs, according to the President-elect.
Here are a few highlights from the address:
“First, we will launch a massive effort to make public buildings more energy-efficient. Our government now pays the highest energy bill in the world. We need to change that. We need to upgrade our federal buildings by replacing old heating systems and installing efficient light bulbs. That won’t just save you, the American taxpayer, billions of dollars each year. It will put people back to work.”
“Third, my economic recovery plan will launch the most sweeping effort to modernize and upgrade school buildings that this country has ever seen. We will repair broken schools, make them energy-efficient, and put new computers in our classrooms. Because to help our children compete in a 21st century economy, we need to send them to 21st century schools.”
The Green Jobs Report provides news, information, and analysis about how green-collar jobs can help jumpstart our nation's economy.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
The Green Jobs Report Tracks Plans to Create 4,563 New Green-Collar Manufacturing Jobs in November
Last month, The Green Jobs Report tracked plans by thirteen companies to create 4,563 new green-collar manufacturing jobs in the solar and wind power sectors of the renewable energy industry. Included in the tally were plans by seven solar sector manufacturers to create 3,285 jobs and plans by six wind sector manufacturers to create 1,278 jobs.
The Green Jobs Report surveys U.S. media coverage of the solar and wind power sectors of the renewable energy industry on a weekly basis. Information about manufacturers’ plans to create new green-collar jobs is then compiled and reported for public use.
Results for week of November 23 to November 29 were predictably low, likely due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The Green Jobs Report documented plans by one solar sector manufacturer and three wind power industry manufacturers to create a total of 326 new green-collar manufacturing jobs.
Details are provided below:
The Muskegon Chronicle/Mlive.com reported on plans by Carlton Creek Ironwoods LLC to create 70 new jobs at a foundry in Rothbury, Michigan. The company plans to hire the new workers as part of a plan to produce high-grade ductile windmill iron required by windmill castings, according to a statement issued by the Michigan Economic Development Authority. The project will be supported by a 10-year $1.6 million state tax credit and an additional 12-year $180,159 local tax credit from the village of Rothbury.
The Journal Sentinel/JSOnline.com published a story about plans by Energy Composites Corp, previously Advanced Fiberglass Technologies, to create as many as 130 new jobs in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. The company is expanding current operations to produce parts components for wind power systems, according to information issued by Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle. The company will receive up to $640 million in Community Development Block Grant loans to help with the expansion.
An article in the Traverse City Record-Eagle detailed MasTech Manufacturing’s plans to create 116 new jobs in Manistee, Michigan by 2011. The company has reached a five-year agreement to produce Mariah Power’s Windspire energy system, according a press release issued last week. Mariah Power described the $4,995 Windspire system as a “30-foot tall, propeller-free turbine that harnesses the power of the wind”. It was designed for residential use and small commercial applications. In addition, 98 percent of the components used to manufacture the Windspire will be supplied by Michigan based businesses.
New Mexico Business Weekly ran a story about plans by Sacred Power Corp., a company owned and operated by Native Americans, to create ten new jobs in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The company has joined forces with Cyberlux Corp. to produce solar powered lighting systems that will be purchased by the Department of Defense, and eventually marketed to other government agencies and the private sector.
The Green Jobs Report also documented plans by the following manufacturers to create new green-collar jobs in the solar and wind power industries earlier in the month of November.
Solar:
Amelio Solar: Up to 175 new green jobs in Vineland, New Jersery
Konarka Technologies, Inc.: 100 new green jobs in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Opti-Solar: 1,000 new green jobs in Sacramento, California.
Schott: 1,500 new green jobs in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Shoals Technology Group: 450 new green jobs in Portland, Tennessee.
Staubli: 50 new green jobs in Duncan, South Carolina.
Wind:
Goain North America LLC – 12 new green jobs in Ankeny, Iowa
Brevini: 450 new green jobs in Yorktown, Indiana.
TPI Composites: 500 new green jobs in Newton, Iowa.
For more information about these plans is available visit The Green Jobs Report blog.
The Green Jobs Report has been tracking plans to create new green-collar manufacturing jobs in the solar and wind power sectors of the renewable energy industries since October 24, 2008. Plans by 24 companies to create a total of 11,013 new jobs have been documented so far.
Subscribe to The Green Jobs Report
The Green Jobs Report surveys U.S. media coverage of the solar and wind power sectors of the renewable energy industry on a weekly basis. Information about manufacturers’ plans to create new green-collar jobs is then compiled and reported for public use.
Results for week of November 23 to November 29 were predictably low, likely due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The Green Jobs Report documented plans by one solar sector manufacturer and three wind power industry manufacturers to create a total of 326 new green-collar manufacturing jobs.
Details are provided below:
The Muskegon Chronicle/Mlive.com reported on plans by Carlton Creek Ironwoods LLC to create 70 new jobs at a foundry in Rothbury, Michigan. The company plans to hire the new workers as part of a plan to produce high-grade ductile windmill iron required by windmill castings, according to a statement issued by the Michigan Economic Development Authority. The project will be supported by a 10-year $1.6 million state tax credit and an additional 12-year $180,159 local tax credit from the village of Rothbury.
The Journal Sentinel/JSOnline.com published a story about plans by Energy Composites Corp, previously Advanced Fiberglass Technologies, to create as many as 130 new jobs in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. The company is expanding current operations to produce parts components for wind power systems, according to information issued by Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle. The company will receive up to $640 million in Community Development Block Grant loans to help with the expansion.
An article in the Traverse City Record-Eagle detailed MasTech Manufacturing’s plans to create 116 new jobs in Manistee, Michigan by 2011. The company has reached a five-year agreement to produce Mariah Power’s Windspire energy system, according a press release issued last week. Mariah Power described the $4,995 Windspire system as a “30-foot tall, propeller-free turbine that harnesses the power of the wind”. It was designed for residential use and small commercial applications. In addition, 98 percent of the components used to manufacture the Windspire will be supplied by Michigan based businesses.New Mexico Business Weekly ran a story about plans by Sacred Power Corp., a company owned and operated by Native Americans, to create ten new jobs in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The company has joined forces with Cyberlux Corp. to produce solar powered lighting systems that will be purchased by the Department of Defense, and eventually marketed to other government agencies and the private sector.
The Green Jobs Report also documented plans by the following manufacturers to create new green-collar jobs in the solar and wind power industries earlier in the month of November.
Solar:
Amelio Solar: Up to 175 new green jobs in Vineland, New Jersery
Konarka Technologies, Inc.: 100 new green jobs in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Opti-Solar: 1,000 new green jobs in Sacramento, California.
Schott: 1,500 new green jobs in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Shoals Technology Group: 450 new green jobs in Portland, Tennessee.
Staubli: 50 new green jobs in Duncan, South Carolina.
Wind:
Goain North America LLC – 12 new green jobs in Ankeny, Iowa
Brevini: 450 new green jobs in Yorktown, Indiana.
TPI Composites: 500 new green jobs in Newton, Iowa.
For more information about these plans is available visit The Green Jobs Report blog.
The Green Jobs Report has been tracking plans to create new green-collar manufacturing jobs in the solar and wind power sectors of the renewable energy industries since October 24, 2008. Plans by 24 companies to create a total of 11,013 new jobs have been documented so far.
Subscribe to The Green Jobs Report
Monday, December 1, 2008
Sign Michigan Green's "Say Yes to Green Schools" Petition Today!
Michigan Green, a Michigan based environmental group, has launched a new petition calling on Congress to pass legislation that will make renewable energy more accessible to our nation’s schools. The group released a statement explaining how schools that use renewable energy can save money on energy and operating costs, and provide valuable hands on learning experiences to students.
“We seek a national energy policy that is consistent with President-elect Obama’s plan for renewable energy and education in our nation’s schools,” Michigan Green spokesperson William Naubert said in the statement.
The group believes that the lack of a national policy on this issue has led to a situation where schools interested in renewable energy are forced to navigate through complex energy policies that vary from state to state. That means that the constraints and incentives facing interested schools vary based upon location.
I support Michigan Green’s efforts to create a coherent policy that will encourage the use of renewable energy in our nation’s schools. Our children deserve to be ready to compete for the next generation of high tech jobs when they graduate from high school.
Communities experiencing tough economic times benefit greatly when schools create new green jobs by investing in clean energy. There are numerous incentives and grants available today that can help school systems invest in energy efficient and renewable energy technologies at little or no cost to taxpayers. Energy efficient and renewable energy technologies can even help local governments save money on energy and maintenance costs over time.
This is a win-win situation. But in order to take advantage of these benefits, we need to make sure that every school in the nation has the opportunity to invest in renewable energy.
You can click here to sign the “Say Yes to Green Schools” petition
Want to learn more? Click here to read the original press release
Or click here to learn more about Green Michigan
“We seek a national energy policy that is consistent with President-elect Obama’s plan for renewable energy and education in our nation’s schools,” Michigan Green spokesperson William Naubert said in the statement.
The group believes that the lack of a national policy on this issue has led to a situation where schools interested in renewable energy are forced to navigate through complex energy policies that vary from state to state. That means that the constraints and incentives facing interested schools vary based upon location.
I support Michigan Green’s efforts to create a coherent policy that will encourage the use of renewable energy in our nation’s schools. Our children deserve to be ready to compete for the next generation of high tech jobs when they graduate from high school.
Communities experiencing tough economic times benefit greatly when schools create new green jobs by investing in clean energy. There are numerous incentives and grants available today that can help school systems invest in energy efficient and renewable energy technologies at little or no cost to taxpayers. Energy efficient and renewable energy technologies can even help local governments save money on energy and maintenance costs over time.
This is a win-win situation. But in order to take advantage of these benefits, we need to make sure that every school in the nation has the opportunity to invest in renewable energy.
You can click here to sign the “Say Yes to Green Schools” petition
Want to learn more? Click here to read the original press release
Or click here to learn more about Green Michigan
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Los Angelos Strives to Become a Global Leader in the Cleantech, Solar Power Market
Los Angeles, a city once famous for its troubles with smog and air pollution, turned a shade greener last week. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced two major new initiatives designed to help the city become a global leader in the clean tech industry, Solar LA and CleanTechLosAngeles.org.
A press release issued by the Mayor’s office dubbed Solar LA as “the largest solar project undertaken by any single city in the world”. The plan calls for the installation of 1.3 gigawatts of solar power by 2020, enough to meet 10 percent of the city’s total energy needs.
The Mayor hopes that the plan will jumpstart the local clean tech economy, create new green collar jobs, and help the city meet its goal of reducing greenhouse has emissions by 35 percent of 1990 levels by 2030. The city estimates that every 10,000 megawatts of solar energy produced by the plan will generate 200-400 new green jobs.
“It is time that we use our most abundant natural resource to create the electricity and the jobs we need for the future,” Mayor Villaraigosa was quoted as saying. “Today, we are turning up the heat and taking the next step towards becoming a shining example of green growth worldwide.”
Solar LA will use $313 million worth of funding from the State of California to install residential solar panels. A limited number of solar panels will be installed free of charge in selected low-income areas. The city will also offer low interest 10-year loans and rebate programs to help residents cover installation costs. These incentives should spur local demand for solar power solutions.
The new CleanTechLosAngeles.org was also launched last week to help solidify the city’s status as an up and coming leader in the global renewable energy market.
“Our long-term future depends on our ability to capitalize on the growing opportunities of the new green economy, and this site will bring together our partners under one virtual roof,” the Mayor stated in a press release.
Mayor Villaraigosa is just one a growing number of leaders in the U.S. to embrace clean energy as a real solution to our nation’s woes. These leaders understand that we can jumpstart our nation’s economy, create the next generation of high paying jobs, and help stop global warming by investing in renewable energy now.
Sources:
Office of the Mayor, City of Los Angeles, “Mayor Villaraigosa Unveils Largest Solar Power Plan in America”. Press Release, November 24, 2008
Office of the Mayor, City of Los Angeles, “Mayor Villaraigosa Launches Cleantech LA to Spur Development of Green Economy”. Press Release, November 24, 2008
Learn more about the greening of Los Angeles:
The Solar LA Plan
www.CleanTechLosAngeles.org
The Green LA Plan
A press release issued by the Mayor’s office dubbed Solar LA as “the largest solar project undertaken by any single city in the world”. The plan calls for the installation of 1.3 gigawatts of solar power by 2020, enough to meet 10 percent of the city’s total energy needs.
The Mayor hopes that the plan will jumpstart the local clean tech economy, create new green collar jobs, and help the city meet its goal of reducing greenhouse has emissions by 35 percent of 1990 levels by 2030. The city estimates that every 10,000 megawatts of solar energy produced by the plan will generate 200-400 new green jobs.
“It is time that we use our most abundant natural resource to create the electricity and the jobs we need for the future,” Mayor Villaraigosa was quoted as saying. “Today, we are turning up the heat and taking the next step towards becoming a shining example of green growth worldwide.”
Solar LA will use $313 million worth of funding from the State of California to install residential solar panels. A limited number of solar panels will be installed free of charge in selected low-income areas. The city will also offer low interest 10-year loans and rebate programs to help residents cover installation costs. These incentives should spur local demand for solar power solutions.
The new CleanTechLosAngeles.org was also launched last week to help solidify the city’s status as an up and coming leader in the global renewable energy market.
“Our long-term future depends on our ability to capitalize on the growing opportunities of the new green economy, and this site will bring together our partners under one virtual roof,” the Mayor stated in a press release.
Mayor Villaraigosa is just one a growing number of leaders in the U.S. to embrace clean energy as a real solution to our nation’s woes. These leaders understand that we can jumpstart our nation’s economy, create the next generation of high paying jobs, and help stop global warming by investing in renewable energy now.
Sources:
Office of the Mayor, City of Los Angeles, “Mayor Villaraigosa Unveils Largest Solar Power Plan in America”. Press Release, November 24, 2008
Office of the Mayor, City of Los Angeles, “Mayor Villaraigosa Launches Cleantech LA to Spur Development of Green Economy”. Press Release, November 24, 2008
Learn more about the greening of Los Angeles:
The Solar LA Plan
www.CleanTechLosAngeles.org
The Green LA Plan
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Plans to Create 4,130 Green Collar Manufacturing Jobs Move Forward Despite Bad Economy - The Green Jobs Report for November 16 to November 22, 2008
The latest data compiled by The Green Jobs Report indicates that manufacturers in the solar and wind power industry are eager to move forward on plans to expand production and create new green collar jobs despite the current economic crisis. Media reports issued between November 16th and November 22nd, 2008 detailed plans by seven solar and wind sector manufacturing companies to create a total of 4, 130 new green collar jobs through expanded operations.
A press release issued by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and posted on the website News Blaze on November 17 detailed OptiSolar's plans to create 1,000 green collar jobs at new manufacturing plant in Sacremento, California.
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Brevini USA is planning to build a new manufacturing facility in Yorktown, Indiana that will eventually employ 450 workers according to a November 18th report in the Anderson Herald Bulletin. A press release issued by the company said that the facility would be dedicated to designing and manufacturing main driver gear boxes for the wind turbine industry.
Also on November 18th, Providence Business News covered the opening of Konarka Technologies, Inc.’s new manufacturing facility in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The facility will be the world’s largest roll-to-roll flexible thin film solar manufacturing facility and will employ 100 workers within two to three years, according to a press release issued by the company.
A November 19th story posted on NJ.com detailed Amelio Solar’s proposal to locate a new solar panel manufacturing plant in Vineland, New Jersey. If approved, the facility will create 130 to 175 new jobs.
On November 20th, Forbes.com published an AP article on SCHOTT Solar’s new manufacturing plant in Albuquerque. A press release issue by the company states that the plant will eventually employ 1,500 people.
Also on November 20th, a story about Shoal Technology’s plans for a new plant in Portland, Tennessee appeared in the Nashville Business Journal . The new plant will one day employ 450 workers.
Finally, CBS Evening News covered TPI Composites plans for a new wind blade factory in Newton, Iowa during its nightly report on November 21st. A press release issued by the company said that in time the factory will employ 500 in a community that was hard hit by Whirlpool’s acquisition of the company Maytag in 2006.
“In 2006, after an acquisition by Whirlpool, the former Maytag offices and plants in Newton were closed, putting 1,800 people out of work and ending a century-old legacy of washing machine manufacturing. Today, Newton boasts two wind energy firms, and Iowa is one of the leading wind producing states in the country," the release stated.
The reports came at a time when President-Elect Barack Obama was detailing the roll that green technologies could play in solving the nation's economic woes.
"We’ll put people back to work rebuilding our crumbling roads and bridges, modernizing schools that are failing our children, and building wind farms and solar panels; fuel-efficient cars and the alternative energy technologies that can free us from our dependence on foreign oil and keep our economy competitive in the years ahead," Obama said last week.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently announced that U.S. economy lost 90,000 manufacturing jobs in October, including 9,000 in the motor vehicles and parts sector alone.
The Green Jobs Report has documented plans by 20 solar and wind manufacturing companies to create 10,490 new green collar jobs since it began monitoring media reports on October 24, 2008.
A press release issued by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and posted on the website News Blaze on November 17 detailed OptiSolar's plans to create 1,000 green collar jobs at new manufacturing plant in Sacremento, California.
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Brevini USA is planning to build a new manufacturing facility in Yorktown, Indiana that will eventually employ 450 workers according to a November 18th report in the Anderson Herald Bulletin. A press release issued by the company said that the facility would be dedicated to designing and manufacturing main driver gear boxes for the wind turbine industry.
Also on November 18th, Providence Business News covered the opening of Konarka Technologies, Inc.’s new manufacturing facility in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The facility will be the world’s largest roll-to-roll flexible thin film solar manufacturing facility and will employ 100 workers within two to three years, according to a press release issued by the company.
A November 19th story posted on NJ.com detailed Amelio Solar’s proposal to locate a new solar panel manufacturing plant in Vineland, New Jersey. If approved, the facility will create 130 to 175 new jobs.
On November 20th, Forbes.com published an AP article on SCHOTT Solar’s new manufacturing plant in Albuquerque. A press release issue by the company states that the plant will eventually employ 1,500 people.
Also on November 20th, a story about Shoal Technology’s plans for a new plant in Portland, Tennessee appeared in the Nashville Business Journal . The new plant will one day employ 450 workers.
Finally, CBS Evening News covered TPI Composites plans for a new wind blade factory in Newton, Iowa during its nightly report on November 21st. A press release issued by the company said that in time the factory will employ 500 in a community that was hard hit by Whirlpool’s acquisition of the company Maytag in 2006.
“In 2006, after an acquisition by Whirlpool, the former Maytag offices and plants in Newton were closed, putting 1,800 people out of work and ending a century-old legacy of washing machine manufacturing. Today, Newton boasts two wind energy firms, and Iowa is one of the leading wind producing states in the country," the release stated.
The reports came at a time when President-Elect Barack Obama was detailing the roll that green technologies could play in solving the nation's economic woes.
"We’ll put people back to work rebuilding our crumbling roads and bridges, modernizing schools that are failing our children, and building wind farms and solar panels; fuel-efficient cars and the alternative energy technologies that can free us from our dependence on foreign oil and keep our economy competitive in the years ahead," Obama said last week.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently announced that U.S. economy lost 90,000 manufacturing jobs in October, including 9,000 in the motor vehicles and parts sector alone.
The Green Jobs Report has documented plans by 20 solar and wind manufacturing companies to create 10,490 new green collar jobs since it began monitoring media reports on October 24, 2008.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Staubli To Create New Green Manufacturing Jobs In Duncan, South Carolina
Staubli, a Switzerland-based company, recently announced plans to create 30 to 50 new green manufacturing jobs in Duncan, South Carolina.
The jobs will be at a new manufacturing facility that will produce electrical systems for the solar power industry. Production is slated to begin by the middle of next year.
"Renewable energies are becoming increasingly important for the modern economy," the company stated in a new release published on its website.
Staubli describes itself as an international "mechatronics solution provider with three dedicated divisions: textile machinery, connectors and robotics." The company's headquarters is located in Pfäffikon, Switzerland.
"Renewable energies are becoming increasingly important for the modern economy," the company stated in a new release published on its website.
Staubli describes itself as an international "mechatronics solution provider with three dedicated divisions: textile machinery, connectors and robotics." The company's headquarters is located in Pfäffikon, Switzerland.
The Green Jobs Report has been tracking the creation of new green manufacturing jobs by the wind and solar power industry since October 24, 2008. 6,390 new green jobs have reported to date.
Check out Solar Power for Your Home for Dummies, an easy to follow guide to integrating solar power into your own home!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Suniva Inc. Plans To Bring 100 New Green Jobs To Norcross, Georgia
Suniva Inc. recently announced plans to create 100 new green jobs in Norcross, Georgia by the end of 2009.
The announcement came as Suniva began production at a new solar cell manufacturing facility in Norcross.
When asked why the company chose Norcross as the site of its new operation to spokesperson Wendy Rosen of the Antenna Group has this to say.
“We have a strong relationship with the local and state governments, and a key partnership with Georgia Tech.”
Suniva is currently hiring process engineers and facilities technicians to work on the new line, according to the careers section of the company’s website. It also has openings in its research and development and human resources departments.
The Green Jobs Report has been tracking the creation of new green manufacturing jobs by the manufacturing sectors of the wind and solar power industries since October 24, 2008. 6,360 new green jobs have reported to date.
Monday, November 10, 2008
PPG Industries to Bring 120 New Green Jobs to Shelby, North Carolina - The Green Jobs Report
PPG Industries Fiber Glass Products Inc. plans to create 120 new green jobs in Shelby, North Carolina according to press release issued on November 7, 2007. The new jobs will pay an average wage of $32, 183 annually.
The company is expanding its Shelby operation producing fiberglass used in the manufacturing of wind turbine blades thanks to increased demand for its products.
The company will invest $20.5 million in the project, aided in part by a $300,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund. The press release also cited the N.C. Department of Commerce, Cleveland County, Cleveland 20/20 Economic Development Partnership, City of Shelby, Gardner-Webb University and Cleveland Community College as contributing to the project.
The company is expanding its Shelby operation producing fiberglass used in the manufacturing of wind turbine blades thanks to increased demand for its products.
The company will invest $20.5 million in the project, aided in part by a $300,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund. The press release also cited the N.C. Department of Commerce, Cleveland County, Cleveland 20/20 Economic Development Partnership, City of Shelby, Gardner-Webb University and Cleveland Community College as contributing to the project.
The Green Jobs Report has been tracking the creation of new green jobs by the manufacturing sectors of the wind and solar power industries since October 24, 2008. 6,260 new green jobs have reported to date.
Friday, November 7, 2008
The Green Jobs Report: 6,140 Potential New Green Manufacturing Jobs Announced by Solar & Wind Power Companies Between October 24 & October 31, 2008
Solar and wind power companies announced the creation of 6,140 potential new green manufacturing jobs between October 24 and October 31, 2008.
New Solar Power Industry Manufacturing Jobs:
Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. has announced plans to build a new solar cell manufacturing plant in Battle Creek, Michigan. The company expects to hire 350 new employees to work at the plant within the next three years.
Also in Michigan, local ABC affiliate WRJT Channel 2 reported that the Midland based Fulcrum Composites plans to hire 130 new employees as part of its operations manufacturing solar panels.
HelioVolt Corporation issued a press release marking the opening of a new plant that will manufacture high-performance thin film solar energy products. The new plant will create around 160 green jobs according to company expectations.
Mass High Tech reported that Evergreen Solar plans to eventually employ 700 at a new solar cell manufacturing plant under construction in Devens, Massachussetts.
SolarWorld announced the opening what it calls “North America’s largest solar cell manufacturing facility” in Hillsboro, Oregon. It expects to employ 1,000 at the facility by 2011.
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported on Rostraver, Pennsylvania based Solar Power Industries Inc.’s plans to expand its solar cell manufacturing operations and create as many as 1,500 new jobs by the year 2011. It also reported on Flabeg Corp’s plans to create 300 new jobs manufacturing glass and mirror components for solar panels in Pittsburg.
New Wind Power Manufacturing Jobs
Nordex USA Inc. issued a press release detailing plans to create a new wind turbine manufacturing facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The plant is expected to employ 700 people.
LM Glasfiber announced the opening of its new regional headquarters and a new wind turbine blade production plant in Little Rock, Arkansas. The company plans to employ 1,000 people in its Little Rock operation over the next five years.
Tower Tech Systems announced plans to expand its wind tower manufacturing operations in Abilene, Texas and Sioux Falls, S.D. The expansion is expected to initially create around 150 new jobs in each location.
The Green Jobs Report tracks the creation of new green manufacturing jobs by employers in the wind and solar power industries. Information and statistics are compiled from media reports and company press releases using online search engines.
Learn more about green jobs by reading Van Jone's The Green Collar Economy!
New Solar Power Industry Manufacturing Jobs:
Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. has announced plans to build a new solar cell manufacturing plant in Battle Creek, Michigan. The company expects to hire 350 new employees to work at the plant within the next three years.
Also in Michigan, local ABC affiliate WRJT Channel 2 reported that the Midland based Fulcrum Composites plans to hire 130 new employees as part of its operations manufacturing solar panels.
HelioVolt Corporation issued a press release marking the opening of a new plant that will manufacture high-performance thin film solar energy products. The new plant will create around 160 green jobs according to company expectations.
Mass High Tech reported that Evergreen Solar plans to eventually employ 700 at a new solar cell manufacturing plant under construction in Devens, Massachussetts.
SolarWorld announced the opening what it calls “North America’s largest solar cell manufacturing facility” in Hillsboro, Oregon. It expects to employ 1,000 at the facility by 2011.
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported on Rostraver, Pennsylvania based Solar Power Industries Inc.’s plans to expand its solar cell manufacturing operations and create as many as 1,500 new jobs by the year 2011. It also reported on Flabeg Corp’s plans to create 300 new jobs manufacturing glass and mirror components for solar panels in Pittsburg.
New Wind Power Manufacturing Jobs
Nordex USA Inc. issued a press release detailing plans to create a new wind turbine manufacturing facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The plant is expected to employ 700 people.
LM Glasfiber announced the opening of its new regional headquarters and a new wind turbine blade production plant in Little Rock, Arkansas. The company plans to employ 1,000 people in its Little Rock operation over the next five years.
Tower Tech Systems announced plans to expand its wind tower manufacturing operations in Abilene, Texas and Sioux Falls, S.D. The expansion is expected to initially create around 150 new jobs in each location.
The Green Jobs Report tracks the creation of new green manufacturing jobs by employers in the wind and solar power industries. Information and statistics are compiled from media reports and company press releases using online search engines.
Learn more about green jobs by reading Van Jone's The Green Collar Economy!
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