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Hello CELC Members and Partners,
As we step into October, two important topics are on our minds. First, it’s Energy Awareness Month, a perfect time to highlight the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in our daily lives. We encourage everyone to explore ways to conserve energy, reduce costs, and support a cleaner environment. Here is a toolkit to promote energy efficiency.
Additionally, we stand in solidarity with those affected by Hurricane Helene. The devastation caused by flooding has displaced many, and now more than ever communities need our help. Consider donating or volunteering to support recovery efforts.
Let’s come together this month to make a difference in both energy conservation and disaster relief. For more information on how you can assist, visit this resource.
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In this newsletter:
- Mark Your Calendar: Exciting CELC Opportunities Ahead
- Spotlight on CELC: Member Events and Updates
- Texas Energy Advocates – University Program (TEA-UP)
- Secure the Funds: Latest Grant Opportunities Available
- What We're Reading: Insights and Inspiration
- Career Moves: Hot Opportunities and Job Openings You Should Know
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Mark Your Calendar: Exciting CELC Opportunities Ahead | |
Introducing the Texas Energy Advocates – University Program (TEA-UP)! | |
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We are thrilled to launch the Texas Energy Advocates – University Program (TEA-UP), a new initiative aimed at empowering universities and colleges across Texas to address critical energy challenges. TEA-UP will bring together students, faculty, and industry professionals to collaborate on projects that promote energy efficiency and sustainability.
Through this program, participants will gain access to valuable resources, training, and networking opportunities, enabling them to become future leaders in energy advocacy. TEA-UP is committed to fostering innovation and engagement within the academic community to drive positive change for a sustainable future.
For more details on how you can get involved, participate in upcoming events, and help shape the future of energy leadership in Texas, be sure to check out the TEA-UP section in our newsletter! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the energy sector.
Feel free to reach out: cities@eepartnership.org
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CELC Part-Time Position
We are looking for a part-time candidate to help with our Local Government CELC (Community Efficiency Leadership Coalition) program! This individual will provide technical support & undertake research or convene meetings and forums for educational purposes regarding local government energy efficiency and sustainability. Join our team and make an impact on our environment and community today! Learn more about the position and apply here.
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SPEER Presents at the Texas Association of Regional Councils' Bi-Annual Staff Training & Annual Board of Directors Meeting | |
SPEER recently participated in the Texas Association of Regional Councils' (TARC) Bi-Annual Staff Training and Annual Board of Directors Meeting. With over 40 attendees, including members of the Solid Waste Planners Association, SPEER shared valuable insights on energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives. As we look ahead, SPEER is eager to partner with Councils of Governments (COGs) to offer workshops and trainings focused on energy reporting and resilience initiatives. For organizations interested in collaborating, please contact us at cities@eepartnership.org | |
Share Your Expertise: Call for Webinar Presenters | |
Unleash your knowledge! We're seeking passionate experts to lead our upcoming webinars. If you're an industry leader with insights to share, we want to hear from you. Join us in inspiring and educating our community. Submit your proposal now! | |
Spotlight on CELC: Member Events and Updates | |
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Planning for Resilient EV Charging Infrastructure
The population of the North Central Texas region is growing fast, not to mention the entire state, and with that growth comes an increased energy demand on the grid. EV adoption by municipalities is forecasted to increase over time, and energy demand in general is also expected to rise in ERCOT's region. NCTCOG has produced a whitepaper, through a contract with SECO, examining the ERCOT grid’s current state. The paper focuses on EV adoption growth and infrastructure resilience, and emphasizes planning to manage grid impacts and maintain EV charging for critical city operations during outages.
You can find the whitepaper here.
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Fall AQPF (Air Quality Professionals Forum) lunch meeting is fast approaching!
Join in for an engaging and insightful gathering to discuss pressing air quality issues in the community. Sarah Chambliss, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Dell Medical School, will present on "Local Health Inequities Tied to Air Pollution in Austin," highlighting critical links between health disparities and air pollution.
Date: Thursday, October 10th
Cost: $12.00
Time: 12:00 pm
Location: National Instruments, 11500 North Mopac Expressway, Austin, TX (across from the Domain)
Register here.
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Hydrogen CFI Award RFP Opportunities Now Open
The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) is excited to announce RFP (Request for Proposal) opportunities related to the Hydrogen Clean Fuel Initiative (CFI) Award. To participate, visit the NCTCOG Transportation Department Vendor Database and register under “air quality/energy planning” and/or “alternative fuels.” For more details on the project and NCTCOG’s broader Hydrogen initiatives, check out the newly launched Hydrogen in North Texas webpage at DFWClean Cities.
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Join the TEA-UP Conference Planning Committee!
We are thrilled to offer an opportunity for individuals passionate about energy advocacy and sustainability to join the Texas Energy Advocates – University Program (TEA-UP) Committee. As a committee member, you will collaborate with universities, colleges, and higher education programs across Texas to address pressing energy challenges. You’ll play a key role in shaping initiatives that promote energy efficiency, sustainability, and the development of future energy leaders.
If you’re ready to contribute your expertise and drive impactful change in the energy sector, we encourage you to apply by completing the form below. For more information, feel free to contact us.
Apply here.
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Enhance Your Skills with Building Operator Certification!
Are you a building operator looking to boost your expertise in energy-efficient building operations? Join us for SPEER's winter Building Operator Certification (BOC) course starting December 3rd! This comprehensive training program equips you with essential operations and maintenance best practices that can help reduce energy bills by 5-20% annually.
As a BOC graduate, you’ll not only improve the comfort and efficiency of your buildings but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your skills and make a positive impact. Review the course syllabus and save your spot today!
Register here.
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21st Annual Texas Energy Summit | |
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Please join us in Austin from November 19-21, 2024 for the 21st Annual Texas Energy Summit, hosted by Energy Systems Laboratory, a division of the Texas A&M University System.
This year’s summit will delve into the critical intersection of air quality and energy systems, encompassing all sectors, including the grid, transportation, oil and gas, and industrial energy use. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with experts, policymakers, and industry leaders as we explore innovative solutions and strategies for a sustainable energy future.
Register now to secure your spot.
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Secure the Funds: Latest Grant Opportunities Available | |
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2025 Ocean Odyssey Marine Debris Prevention Awards for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Accessibility
A request for Proposals for the Ocean Odyssey Marine Debris Prevention Awards for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Accessibility (DEIJA). With funding from the NOAA Marine Debris Program, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation will award 10-15 grants, totaling up to $100,000 for this funding competition. Individual awards will range between $5,000 and $10,000 to support initiatives that prevent the adverse impacts of marine debris in communities that are underserved, underrepresented, or overburdened by marine debris.
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Community Energy Innovation Prize
The Community Energy Innovation Prize aims to support local organizations with proven track records of engaging underserved communities and/or promoting environmental, climate, and energy justice as they enact community-led climate and clean energy solutions.
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What We're Reading: Insights and Inspiration | |
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NREL Publishes Report on Offshore Wind Transmission in the Gulf of Mexico
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has released a report titled "Gulf of Mexico Offshore Wind Transmission Literature Review and Gaps Analysis," funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. This report explores opportunities and challenges in transmitting offshore wind energy to land-based customers across the Gulf region, which holds 37% of the nation’s offshore wind potential. By identifying current knowledge gaps, the report aims to facilitate coordinated transmission planning essential for effectively connecting offshore resources to consumers in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
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Measuring Up States’ Priority Climate Action Plans
A new analysis shows that States’ Priority Climate Action Plans could lead to a 7% reduction in climate pollution from the United States by 2030. These plans play a vital role in combating climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
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Explore the UTSA SmartLiving Campus Initiative!
The UTSA SmartLiving campus is at the forefront of energy innovation, dedicated to eliminating energy waste while maximizing energy and economic efficiency. Through advanced systems active control and technology upgrades, the campus aims to ensure long-term energy sustainability. Learn more about their groundbreaking efforts and how they are setting a new standard for energy efficiency and conservation.
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Career Moves:
Hot Opportunities and Job Openings You Should Know
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