Arkansas Advanced Energy Unveils Statewide Local Economic Development Support Program

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Advanced Energy Association (AAEA) announces a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bolstering local economies and promoting sustainability across Arkansas. As a leader in the state’s “new economy,” AAEA is dedicated to driving economic development through advanced energy solutions, which are critical to building a resilient and thriving Arkansas.

Advanced energy sectors such as energy efficiency, lithium and grid development are at the forefront of Arkansas’s economic growth, generating hundreds of jobs, especially in rural areas.

"A strong economy is built through strong leadership, inviting legislation, supportive policies, and a business-conducive environment," said AAEA Executive Director Lauren Waldrip. "We recognize that powerful engines of growth are found at the local level, where unsung heroes—local leaders who love their towns and communities—work tirelessly to build and sustain the economy. These leaders are the backbone of community development and economic work, and we are here to support their efforts."

The Energize Arkansas Communities & Homes (EACH) Initiative

In response to the pressing needs of local communities the city and county level, and in alignment with available grants, programs, and resources, AAEA is proud to introduce the Energize Arkansas Communities & Homes (EACH) Initiative. This initiative is designed to provide critical resources, support, and capacity-building opportunities to local leaders who are often constrained by limited budgets and overwhelming challenges.

The EACH Initiative offers a comprehensive suite of services, including workforce development, funding opportunities, and technical support, to empower communities across Arkansas. By participating in this initiative, local leaders will gain access to tools and expertise that can drive economic growth, enhance energy efficiency, and build resilient infrastructure in their towns and counties.

"Partnering with the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association has been a game-changer for Fayetteville," said AAEA member Peter Nierengarten with the City of Fayetteville. "Through AAEA, we've gained invaluable insights into regulatory processes, ensuring we are well-informed and actively participating in crucial discussions that shape our city’s future. The resources and networks AAEA provides have significantly bolstered our economic development efforts, offering us access to funding, technical support, and collaborative opportunities that are instrumental in driving sustainable growth. We’re proud to be part of an organization that aligns so closely with our vision for a prosperous and resilient community."

Key Initiatives and Opportunities

Workforce Development and Apprenticeship Programs

• AAEA has launched a workforce training and apprenticeship program funded by a grant from the Office of Skills Development. This programming reduces training costs for employers and prepares workers for high-paying careers in the energy sector.

• AAEA adopts an employer-driven approach to workforce development, ensuring that training programs and apprenticeships are tailored to meet the specific needs of the industry. By aligning educational and skill-building initiatives with actual industry demands, AAEA helps employers address skill gaps effectively, providing a pipeline of qualified talent ready to contribute to the sector’s growth.

Funding Opportunities Including Energy Efficiency Programs

• US DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant: Allocations are extended until October 31, 2024 and additional state competitive program to launch early September. This funding supports EV infrastructure, workforce development, energy audits, and building retrofits.

• CPRG provides Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) funding and workforce development resources for eligible communities.

• State Funding Readiness Project provides pro-bono community capacity-building and grant-writing

• Clean Energy Communities Fund (CECF): Fundraising to provide seed grants to 2,000 communities to electrify and shift to cleaner energy, paired with peer learning cohorts and technical assistance.

• Solar for All Program: A $93 million initiative to expand affordable solar energy access for low-income areas, enhancing energy equity and grid resilience.

• Arkansas Energy Performance Contracting (AEPC) Program: Helps municipalities upgrade infrastructure and reduce energy costs through guaranteed energy savings.

• Direct Pay on Tax Credits: Nonprofits and public entities can now receive direct payments for tax credits, making these benefits accessible without traditional tax liabilities.

Collaborative Partnerships and Membership

To further maximize the impact of the EACH Initiative, AAEA offers complimentary first-year membership to cities and counties. This membership provides local officials with a platform to connect, share insights, and leverage collective expertise. Through these partnerships, AAEA aims to foster a collaborative environment where local leaders can work together to overcome challenges and drive economic growth.

To participate, entities can enroll online here.

Ongoing partnerships with federal and state entities, private sector leaders, and technical support organizations ensure that participating communities have access to invaluable resources and networking opportunities. By joining AAEA, local leaders can engage with industry experts, share best practices, and collaborate on innovative solutions to build stronger, more sustainable communities.

Support Mechanisms for Local Leaders

To further support local leaders, AAEA offers:

• Meetings and Masterminds: Regular gatherings and informational sessions to discuss challenges, share best practices, and develop collaborative solutions.

• Grant Advisory: Assistance in identifying and applying for relevant grants to fund local projects.

• Workforce Development Programs: Tailored program guideance to train and prepare the local workforce for careers in the advanced energy sector.

• Infrastructure Support: Guidance and resources to build the necessary infrastructure for economic growth and job recruitment.

Join Us for a Sustainable Future

AAEA invites local leaders to partner through the EACH Initiative, accessing economic growth and funding opportunities that benefit their communities. These resources are designed to empower local decision-makers, enhance sustainability, and drive economic development across Arkansas. Local entities may elect to participate via the online form here.

AAEA Leadership with members from Pulaski County and the City of Fayetteville at a recent multi-community grant announcement.

About Arkansas Advanced Energy

The Arkansas Advanced Energy Association is the business voice for advanced energy in Arkansas. AAEA is dedicated to growing Arkansas’s economy through expanded utilization of advanced energy technologies, including energy efficiency, demand response, natural gas electric generation, solar, wind, hydro, nuclear, electric vehicles, alternative fuels and smart grid.

The Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation promotes greater public understanding of advanced energy in Arkansas through research, public education programs, and economic and workforce development.

For more information about Arkansas Advanced Energy and its upcoming initiatives, please visit https://arkansasadvancedenergy.com/.