North Carolina's Energy Futures

North Carolina has many assets that should enable it to thrive in a new energy economy such as an emerging solar industry in the west, biomass in the eastern part of the state, coastal and mountain wind resources, a regional economy with a track of new business formation along the state’s urban corridor, an excellent university and community college system and a strong manufacturing sector. 

IEI’s energy program of work on is actively exploring ideas for creating and expanding jobs and businesses in the clean energy economy by building upon each of these asset bases.

Through its Regional Forums, IEI will begin conversation on how each region can contribute to North Carolina’s energy future. IEI’s Business Committee on Energy will explore how business leaders can adapt to the changes presented by a new energy economy and will consider an institutional framework for developing and adopting long-range energy policies.