What is the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association (AAEA)?

The Arkansas Advanced Energy Association (AAEA) is a trade association serving as the business voice for advanced energy in Arkansas and dedicated to growing the state's economy through the expanded utilization of advanced energy technologies.

What are the benefits of joining AAEA?

Benefits include policy advocacy at various levels, industry policy group briefings, targeted outreach, networking and industry events, marketing promotion of your organization, access to workforce development staff, tools, and data, and regular communications with members. AAEA also provides a platform for networking, sharing insights, and engaging in energy policy debates and advancement.

Who can become a member of AAEA? Is membership limited to certain types of organizations?

Membership is open to a wide array of organizations, including developers, distributors, manufacturers, utilities, partner organizations, nonprofits, small businesses, education and research institutions, municipalities, government entities, and energy consumers, among many others. Anyone with a vested interest in advanced energy development and economic expansion in Arkansas is encouraged to join.

How do I join AAEA? What is the membership application process?

Step 1: Visit our Member Benefits page to learn about which membership tier best fits your organization.

Step 2: Fill out this Membership Form. The form will go to our staff, who will then send an invoice to the Billing Email provided in the form.

Step 3: Upon receipt of payment, AAEA will update its website to include your organization’s logo and information

Step 4: Enjoy access to all the benefits of your chosen membership tier. Welcome to AAEA!

What types of membership does AAEA offer? Are there different membership levels or categories?

There are several membership levels to choose from. Please visit our Member Benefits page for more information!

What are the membership fees?

Membership fees vary based on which membership level you choose. Please visit our Member Benefits page for more information!

What is the duration of the membership term? Is it renewable annually?

Membership terms last for one year. Memberships renew annually in January; if joining outside of that time, your dues will be prorated.

What resources and services are available to AAEA members?

AAEA offers its members policy advocacy, industry policy group briefings, targeted outreach, and regular communications. Additionally, networking opportunities and participation in events and forums are available.

How does AAEA support its members in advancing energy innovation and sustainability?

AAEA supports members by promoting greater public understanding of advanced energy, influencing energy policy, fostering innovation, and providing a forum for addressing energy challenges and opportunities.

Does AAEA offer networking opportunities for its members?

Yes, AAEA offers networking opportunities through special receptions, events, and forums where members can connect with leaders in the advanced energy sector.

How often does AAEA hold events or meetings?

AAEA holds events and meetings regularly. We host an annual meeting and policy conference every year in the fall, open to members and and non-members alike who are interested in hearing in the most up-to-date energy industry news and participating in policy-discussions. We also host a holiday gathering to celebrate the year, network, and introduce potential members to our organization. We host Quarterly Charges once per quarter that allow for round-table discussions and updates on current hot topics. Our staff are involved in other organizations’ events all throughout the year. Additionally we provide a monthly newsletter that is incredibly full of relevant information on member news, industry changes, and funding opportunities, among other things.

Is there a member directory or platform where members can connect with each other?

It’s in the works!

What initiatives or advocacy efforts is AAEA involved in?

AAEA is involved in promoting advanced energy through research, public education, economic and workforce development, and influencing energy policy at various levels.

Can members participate in AAEA's committees or working groups?

Not only are members allowed to participate in committees and working groups, they are encouraged to! Currently, our committees are the Energy Efficiency Solutions Committee, the Renewable Energy Committee, the Operational Affairs Committee, the Utility & Transmission Committee, the Sustainable Development & Infrastructure Committee, the Economic & Workforce Development Committee, the Grants & Fundraising Committe, and the Partnerships & Community Engagement Committee. There are various working groups to discover as well.

How does AAEA communicate with its members?

AAEA utilizes a variety of communication channels to keep members informed and engaged:

• Website Updates: AAEA's website is regularly updated with event information, news, and other relevant content, serving as a centralized hub for members to access resources and stay informed about the organization's activities.

• Monthly Newsletter: Members receive a comprehensive monthly newsletter packed with relevant information, including member news, industry updates, funding opportunities, and more.

• Special Email Updates: During legislative sessions and for urgent communication needs, AAEA sends out special email updates to its members, ensuring timely dissemination of important information.

• Quarterly Charges: These quarterly events provide a platform for round-table discussions and updates on current industry hot topics, offering members valuable insights and networking opportunities.

• Staff Participation in Events: AAEA's staff actively participate in events hosted by other organizations throughout the year, fostering connections and sharing knowledge with the broader industry community.

• Annual Meetings and Policy Conferences: AAEA organizes an annual meeting and policy conference every fall, welcoming both members and non-members interested in staying abreast of the latest energy industry news and engaging in policy discussions.

• Holiday Gatherings: Members have the opportunity to network and celebrate the year at AAEA's holiday gathering, which also serves as an introduction for potential new members.

Are there any discounts or special offers available to members from AAEA partners or affiliates?

AAEA members enjoy first dibs on event tickets at discounted member rates that are unavailable to non-members.

Can members contribute content or participate in AAEA's publications or events?

Yes, and they are encouraged to do so. Contact Jill Balaster, Director of Operations & Communications at jbalaster@arkansasadvancedenergy.com for more information,

How can members get involved in AAEA's efforts to promote advanced energy in Arkansas?

Members can get involved by participating in AAEA's events, advocacy efforts, and by contributing to the dialogue on advanced energy policy and innovation.