Pioneering the Future: GreenTech Network Milestones and Innovations

Dear GreenTech Community,

As our newsletter surpasses the remarkable milestone of 10,000 dedicated followers, I am both thrilled and grateful to reflect on our journey together. Launched on January 10, 2022, during my time in the inaugural LinkedIn Creator Accelerator Program, this platform has grown into a thriving community of engaged and passionate innovators. Our focus extends beyond celebrating existing technologies; we are committed to pioneering equitable, resilient, and transformative opportunities that bring substantial and lasting benefits to our community and the world.

Strategic Partnerships and Community Initiatives

Our efforts to integrate STEAM—where arts play a pivotal role in stimulating innovation in science, technology, engineering, (arts) and math—are reshaping our community engagement strategies:

ARTS COUNCIL OF KERN Collaboration: This vibrant partnership aims to integrate the arts more deeply into our community's fabric, showcasing projects like stunning murals in collaboration with CalTrans and fostering regular arts-based community events. These initiatives not only enrich our cultural landscape but also spark creativity across all sectors, building a cohesive and inspired community. Check out a previous edition on this subject, Full Steam Ahead; Lighting Up the Future.

Kern Community College District Partnership: This strategic alliance marks a significant advance in education and workforce development, particularly in clean energy technologies. At the 21st Energy Center at KCCD, we are not only developing but also offering cutting-edge courses in solar technology and electric vehicles. This program has a proud history of training over 1,000 individuals for the solar industry, preparing a new generation of professionals to drive our industries toward a greener future. Personally stepping into a professor role, I am thrilled to guide and inspire the next wave of energy leaders and entrepreneurs.

Destination for Innovation Campaign

Over the past year, our 'Destination for Innovation' campaign, brought to you by the City of Bakersfield, has significantly impacted Bakersfield’s economic landscape and narrative by leveraging its agricultural roots and energy hub status. This initiative underscores Bakersfield's strategic growth, making the city a beacon for tech talent and startups and fostering a more inclusive economy by bringing together stakeholders. By focusing on regional economic development initiatives, ranging from rejuvenating older neighborhoods and encouraging high-impact energy sector development and advanced manufacturing, we are setting a model for sustainable growth and economic diversification.

Addressing Kern County's Unique Energy Challenges

Last week and since the inception of this great initiative, I represented our vision daily at the regional Kern Coalition meetings, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities in Kern County. Our discussions there highlighted the crippling burden of energy costs that our community faces, with Kern County having the highest electricity rates in the continental United States. This stark reality impacts our ability to attract high-paying manufacturing jobs, as our rates are twice those of regions like Sacramento and the Bay Area and four times those of areas in the Southern United States, where the majority of advanced manufacturing jobs are currently migrating due to lower energy costs.

These exorbitant energy costs not only deter potential investors and manufacturers but also significantly affect our residents, many of whom struggle with bills exceeding $1,000 monthly. Every sub-region of Kern voiced a strong desire for sustainable job creation in sectors like clean energy, manufacturing, and agriculture, focusing on stable, dignified work rather than temporary employment. This, while aiming to lower energy costs to attract high paying jobs in advanced manufacturing. Our engagement has revealed a pressing need for innovative solutions that can provide both economic relief, access to technology, resiliency and sustainable energy practices. This process is truly inspiring as the broader community coalesces around a vision for leading the world and continuing the legacy of innovation in a more equitable way for all residents. I'm confident our community is ready to lead the energy transformation.

Technology and Innovation as Catalysts for Change

In response to these challenges, we are actively working to foster technologies that can transform our energy landscape and economic prospects. Initiatives like SineWatts are at the forefront, developing advanced power electronics and semiconductor technologies. These innovations, including high-power, bidirectional onboard charging for electric vehicles, smart retrofit electrical panels, and advanced smart grid management tools, aim to lower energy costs, increase access to clean energy, and enhance grid reliability.

Engaging in Groundbreaking Research

I am honored to have participated in or facilitated two pivotal studies:

• A Harvard University-led study by Daniel Alain Evrard, examining the perceptions and management of energy transition pressures in Kern County.

• A separate study with Columbia University, facilitated through the Destination for Innovation campaign, exploring the viability and opportunities for Agrivoltaics in Kern County. Both studies seek to provide invaluable insights that will guide our strategies and advocacy efforts in fostering a sustainable and equitable energy future.

Looking Forward with Innovation and Collaboration

As we continue to grow and evolve, our mission remains clear: to innovate and collaborate on solutions that address the immediate needs of our community while paving the way for a resilient and prosperous future. We are dedicated to providing original, valuable information, resources and networking opportunities that empower every member of the GreenTech community to contribute to and benefit from our collective efforts.

Together, let’s unlock the power of collaboration and innovation. Join us as we continue to connect, collaborate, and create a sustainable future for Kern County and beyond. Stay tuned for more exciting partnerships, and don’t forget to follow our expanding online presence, including our YouTube channel.

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment. Here’s to achieving more together!