2024 Annual Report: Avoiding the Energy Crisis in Arkansas
Arkansas Advanced Energy reports record growth in 2024, 28 percent increase in members
The Arkansas Advanced Energy Association (AAEA) welcomed 20 new members in 2024, a 28 percent increase in membership over 2023 according to its 2024 Annual Report, “Avoiding the Energy Crisis in Arkansas”.
Recruitment was a positive by-product of the combined efforts of AAEA's advocacy and Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation's (AAEF) workforce development initiatives.
Advocacy
Supported fair net metering, federal funding for utilities and ratepayers, and demand response market access.
Advocated for Arkansas’s lithium industry and engaged stakeholders to transition from coal-fired plants to advanced energy solutions.
Launched the EACH initiative to assist municipalities in leveraging advanced energy for local economic development.
Actively engaged in Public Service Commission (PSC) proceedings.
Resource Planning
Participated in three Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) processes, advocating for transparency and affordable and reliable energy solutions to meet Arkansas’s growing energy needs.
Communications
Delivered more than 20 speaking engagements to schools, conferences, and professional organizations promoting careers and opportunities in energy.
Secured significant earned media coverage with an estimated 9 million impressions covering key industry updates, workforce initiatives, and policy advancements.
Membership
Grew membership by 28.17 percent, adding 20 new members.
Maintained robust engagement with industry stakeholders.
Workforce Development
Launched a statewide initiative to build a cohesive workforce pipeline, engaging over 50 employers and securing $5 million in grants since 2023.
Facilitated quarterly SkillSync calls to address workforce challenges in HVAC, energy efficiency, and renewables.
Grants
Received more than $1 million through 11 grant awards in 2024 and secured $5.9 million for future projects.
For information about becoming an AAEA member, visit https://www.arkansasadvancedenergy.com/member-benefits.
To learn more about AAEF’s workforce development initiatives, visit https://www.arkansasadvancedenergyfoundation.org/about-workforce.