OPINION:
In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, the pursuit of energy independence and the transition to clean energy are not just aspirational goals they are imperative for our economic stability, national security, and environmental sustainability.
Electricity demand in the United States is expected to increase 50% by 2050, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. Data centers, manufacturing, and transportation infrastructure are the primary drivers of this demand. The United States must embrace a wide range of energy sources to meet this load growth, including nuclear, natural gas with carbon capture, hydropower, solar, geothermal, wind, and long duration energy storage, which are all instrumental in ensuring America’s competitive advantage.
The Clean Energy Buyers Association’s (CEBA’s) members are pursuing innovative solutions to help meet the demand. CEBA represents over 400 members including energy customers and partners, commercial and industrial companies, universities, and cities. In all, they represent more than $20 trillion in market capitalization.
Our members are leading the charge to power data centers for technological advancement, boost economic growth, and produce low-cost, reliable energy. Their commitment to investing in clean energy is unleashing a wave of rapid economic development across the United States and around the world. By leveraging the collective power of major customers, we can accelerate the transition to a clean energy future and ensure that it is accessible and affordable for all.
Clean energy sources also contribute to economic growth. The data center industry created 4.7 million jobs in 2023, a 60% increase from 2017. A February report by Pricewaterhouse Coopers noted the industry’s contribution to gross domestic product rose from $355 billion in 2017 to $727 billion in 2023, marking a 105% increase. Using clean energy to power these centers significantly contributes to the economy and U.S. job creation.
By investing in clean energy and energy-efficient technologies, we can ensure that the power sector remains resilient and capable of supporting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). CEBA members are eager to unleash clean energy and achieve American energy dominance.
But burdensome permitting rules have been holding up energy production, with some current regulations delaying job creating energy and transmission projects. That’s why CEBA supports modernizing permitting rules to establish efficient environmental reviews. Permitting modernization that accelerates approvals of clean energy generation projects, upgrades to existing grids, and much-needed new transmission capacity will help achieve the national energy dominance America needs to fuel our economy.
CEBA members are leading the way: CEBA members have achieved an impressive milestone of 100 gigawatts (GW) of clean energy contracts globally since 2014. That’s enough to power 75 million homes.
This achievement underscores corporations’ growing commitment to clean energy. In 2024 alone, CEBA’s member companies procured 21.7 GW of clean energy, marking the highest annual total to date.
These contracts are not just numbers; they represent tangible progress in reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable growth. As we invest in clean energy technologies, we are stimulating local economies and enhancing energy security.
The journey toward energy independence and a clean energy future requires collaboration and innovation. Policymakers, businesses, and communities must work together to overcome market and policy barriers.
It is an incredibly exciting time to be part of this transformation, and CEBA and our members and partners are eager to advance our shared goal of customer-driven clean energy for all. We look forward to working with the Trump administration as well as Republicans and Democrats in Congress to continue to play a major role in America’s energy dominance and to build a resilient, prosperous future for generations to come.
• Rich Powell is the CEO of Clean Energy Buyers Association (CEBA), a business association with 400 members including energy buyers and partners dedicated to advancing low-cost, reliable, carbon emissions-free global electricity systems.
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