As the U.S. renewable energy economy expands, intentional commitments for equitable economic and workforce development will be critical to achieving the nation’s just transition objectives and building a diverse domestic manufacturing supply chain.
A report by the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) and BW Research Partnership identifies existing minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) within the utility-scale wind, solar, and battery storage manufacturing supply chains; assesses existing supplier selection practices; and highlights opportunities to foster the growth of MWBEs and improve sector diversity.
“Thanks to the enactment of the Inflation Reduction Act, we can develop an enhanced domestic clean energy manufacturing base and do it in a way that meaningfully advances the renewable industry’s diversity, equity, and inclusion priorities,” said ACORE President and CEO Gregory Wetstone. “While diversifying our supply chains will require bold investment and support, we offer a roadmap in this report that includes a multi-pronged strategy across government policies and private-sector practices.”
The new report, Opportunities to Diversify the U.S. Renewable Energy Manufacturing Supply Chain, outlines three sets of opportunities to enhance supply chain diversity in the renewable energy and battery storage sectors:
1. Increasing the number and size of MWBEs in the industry to ensure there are adequate suppliers for downstream purchasers
2. Connecting MWBE suppliers to downstream purchasers in the renewable and battery storage sectors
3. Addressing market challenges by providing key support for MWBEs already in the supply chain
“As the United States accelerates decarbonizing its economy, building strong domestic supply chains for clean energy technologies has become a key priority,” said Philip Jordan, Vice President of BW Research Partnership. “It is critical that new investments to expand local manufacturing are accessible to communities that have typically been left behind to ensure equal access to the emerging opportunities.”
“It is vitally important we create a more inclusive and equitable economy to ensure the U.S. remains competitive and resilient both at home and on the world stage,” said National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) CEO and President Ying McGuire. “This report reflects that reality and NMSDC looks forward to helping ensure minority business enterprises play a central role in building the sustainable and secure energy infrastructure needed for the future success of our country.”
ACORE will continue to work with policymakers, utility-scale developers and MWBEs to realize the report’s recommendations.
