Energizing Economies: De-Risking Project Development by Generating Business Community Buy-In

Utility-scale solar and wind projects offer the fastest and most affordable path to new generation, but they face an uphill battle to approval, with success often hinging on community acceptance. While these projects can deliver transformational economic opportunities to host communities, developers face a persistent trust gap that fuels opposition, misinformation, and costly delays. This talk will explore how centering the business case for clean energy can de-risk development. By partnering with local, regional, and state chambers of commerce and economic development organizations, developers can build durable buy-in, align projects with community priorities, and position projects as lasting economic anchors. Attendees will leave with a practical playbook on when to engage the business community and how to build strategic, mutually beneficial partnerships that extend beyond membership.