Green Technology & Clean Energy Assistance for Small and Mid-Sized Manufacturers
As the global emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility intensifies, the manufacturing sector is at the forefront of adopting clean energy solutions and building the domestic supply chain. Embracing clean energy not only addresses environmental concerns but also opens up numerous opportunities for growth and efficiency improvements. This transformation is pivotal for manufacturers aiming to reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and enhance their competitive edge.
Benefits of Clean Energy Adoption
Growing the Business by Serving the Clean Energy Supply Chain: Participating in and supporting the clean energy supply chain can open new business opportunities, drive growth, and position manufacturers as leaders in the evolving green economy. This involvement can lead to partnerships and collaborations that further enhance business prospects and market reach.
Cost Savings: Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power can significantly reduce energy costs. These sources offer more stable and predictable energy prices compared to fossil fuels, which are subject to market volatility.
Environmental Impact: Reducing carbon emissions through clean energy usage helps mitigate climate change and reduces the ecological footprint of manufacturing operations. This aligns with global sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.
Energy Independence: Investing in on-site renewable energy generation, like solar panels or wind turbines, can decrease dependency on external energy suppliers. This leads to improved energy security and reliability.
Brand Reputation: Companies that prioritize clean energy are often viewed more favorably by consumers, investors, and partners. This can enhance brand loyalty and open up new market opportunities.
Innovation and Efficiency: The integration of clean energy often necessitates the adoption of advanced technologies and innovative practices, leading to overall improvements in operational efficiency.
NEPIRC is part of the initiative described below:
The five-state Clean Energy Manufacturing in Appalachia (CEMA) initiative aims to support small to mid-sized manufacturers in Appalachia by
- Improving energy efficiency or reducing their carbon footprint.
- Shifting or expanding their clean energy product lines or market reach to promote growth and enhance competitiveness within the supply chain.
The program includes:
- Compiling best practices in clean energy and green manufacturing.
- Engaging small and medium-sized manufacturers in the new energy economy.
- Conducting outreach and educational activities.
- Providing MEP technical assistance and deployment services to manufacturers.
- Awarding manufacturing mini-grants to incentivize companies to improve and expand.
- Identifying pathways to scale up.
Program support is available to manufacturers located in MD, NY, OH, PA and WV. Funding for this initiative is provided through an ARISE grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC).
Be sure to check out the upcoming Sustainability in Manufacturing webinar series hosted by Catalyst Connection, NEPIRC’s Pittsburgh-based sister Center, in partnership with CleanENERGY Manufacturing in Appalachia. The series covers key topics like driving sustainability initiatives, tackling complex challenges and the value of energy audits—important areas where manufacturers in Pennsylvania can boost both their competitiveness and resilience.
Learn more about how the CleanENERGY Manufacturing in Appalachia initiative can help your manufacturing facility. Complete and submit the contact form below.
Get started on your clean energy journey today!
Fill out this form or email Info@NEPIRC.com, and a NEPIRC representative will be in touch soon.