Summary
“Clean Innovation Ecosystems: Lifting Distressed Communities in Appalachia with Clean Energy” focuses on how clean innovation ecosystems (CIEs) can benefit distressed communities in Appalachia by leveraging clean energy investments.
Abstract
The study highlights the U.S. government’s historical investments in distressed communities. The formation of business clusters funded by public-private partnerships shows potential in lifting these communities. The concept of Clean Innovation Ecosystems (CIEs) is introduced, encompassing networks of social entrepreneurs, organizations, and institutions promoting sustainable technologies.
Key Investments and Initiatives
- Manufacturing Investments: Over $200 billion in annual run rate construction spending and $600 billion in Voltage Valley projects in the pipeline. Between 2020 and 2000 construction spend was $20 billion to $100 billion annually.
- Government Funding: Significant investments from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and initiatives for regional Hydrogen Hubs, carbon capture, and renewable energy technologies.
Geographic Focus
- Greater Central Appalachian Voltage Valley (GCAVV): This region includes Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, Upstate New York, Michigan, and Central Appalachia. The area is highlighted for its potential to maximize social benefits from public investments in CIEs.
Findings
- Key Factors for Success: Establishing Community Advisory Boards (CABs), collaboration between state and local governments, a reliable regulatory structure, and comprehensive workforce development programs.
- Business Clusters: The formation of diverse business clusters within CIEs, such as the Regional Voltage Valley Business Cluster (RVVBC), enhances economic development and innovation.
Case Studies and Example
- Voltage Valleys: Regional business clusters focused on electric vehicle battery plants, data centers, recycling facilities, Integrated circuit chips and other industries related to digital transformation, advanced materials and electrification.
- Successful Projects: Examples include the General Motors Ultium battery plant in Lordstown, Ohio, Ford electric vehicle plants in Ohio and Kentucky, H2 Trillium’s Integrated manufacturing facilities powered by Hydrogen making Clean ammonia and Silicon as well as other significant investments in the GCAVV..
Conclusion
The study concludes that strategic investments in CIEs, coupled with robust community engagement and workforce development, can significantly uplift distressed communities in Appalachia. The GCAVV serves as a promising example of how clean energy initiatives can drive economic growth and social benefits in historically underserved regions.
The document provides a comprehensive analysis of how clean energy investments can be leveraged to create sustainable economic development in distressed communities, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships, regulatory support, and workforce development.
Read full article here: http://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.150557.1