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Powering Chicago

Addressing Workforce Challenges in the Electrical Construction Industry

  • Posted: January 21, 2025
  • electric vehicles, electrical contractors, Energy Storage, EV charging stations, Green Innovation, Hy-Power Electric Co, IBEW Local 134, Illinois IBEW Renewable Energy Fund, Net-Zero Building, powering chicago, Renewable Energy, Solar Energy, Solar Panels, sustainability, Workforce Development

Welcome to this edition of “The Power of Better,” Powering Chicago’s LinkedIn newsletter. In this issue, we delve into the pressing workforce challenges facing the electrical construction industry as Chicagoland embraces a renewable energy future. We’ll explore how Powering Chicago members are taking proactive steps to ensure the next generation of skilled union electricians is equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to drive our city’s energy transformation.

Illinois’ Sustainability Leader: Pioneering Municipal Green Innovation

Powering Chicago’s most recent episode of its YouTube show, “The Power of Better,” explores one of Illinois’ leaders in sustainability. Just west of Chicago, the Countryside Municipal Complex stands as a groundbreaking marvel of sustainability. This is Illinois’ first and only net-zero municipal building, a pioneering achievement in the United States.

Producing as much energy as it consumes annually, this 35,000-square-foot building is a testament to innovative green design. It features over 600 solar panels that generate an impressive 275 megawatt-hours per year. The building’s low-emissivity glass boosts solar heat gain by 84 percent versus typical insulated glass, enhancing its energy efficiency. Additionally, the parking lot is lined with electric car ports, supporting the growing demand for EVs.

Thanks to Powering Chicago contractor Hy-Power Electric Co., which spearheaded the electrical infrastructure, this building is a beacon of green innovation.

Subscribe to Powering Chicago’s YouTube channel to make sure you don’t miss an episode.

See how the Illinois IBEW Renewable Energy Fund (REF) empowers electricians by training them on solar installations. This inspiring video follows the 2023 Summer Solar Program, where IBEW Local 134 trainees gained hands-on skills that will propel renewable energy careers.

By supporting initiatives like this, decision-makers can ensure Illinois has the skilled workforce needed to meet renewable energy goals. The enthusiastic turnout proves young people want to work in this growing industry. We hope you’ll join us in continuing to invest in them.

How Unions Are Transforming Chicago

Powering Chicago’s Executive Director Elbert Walters III, IBEW Local 134 Business Representative and IL IBEW REF Treasurer Bob Hattier , and Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago (ECA) | Chicago & Cook County Chapter, NECA Vice President Mark Thomas joined SunCast Media for an interview at this year’s Midwest Solar Expo.

They share the various ways they are working to support and grow the next wave of IBEW Local 134 electricians through programs like Powering Chicago’s five-year apprenticeship, the IL IBEW REF’s Summer Solar Program, and state-of-the-art training facilities like IBEW NECA Technical Institute (IN-Tech).

Watch the full video to learn more.

Elbert Walters III, Executive Director at Powering Chicago, recently shared his insights on “Unlocking Benefits From New Solar and Battery Storage Solutions,” published in FacilityManagement.com.

In it, he addresses ways businesses can become more sustainable through solar + storage installation. He explains how licensed, qualified electrical contractors can help you get started with solar integration at your business or facility.

Read the full article on FacilityManagement.com.

Chicagoland’s Number One Resource for Electric Vehicle Charging Station, Solar Electric and Energy Storage System Installations

Are you wondering how EV charger technology fits into your business strategy?

Powering Chicago’s contractors have expertly trained and skilled union electricians ready to install EV charging stations to help your business get ahead of the curve now.

Our free, downloadable eBook and fact sheets feature insights from the leading experts in EV technology, and they provide a bird’s-eye view of the current landscape, business benefits, as well as a comprehensive approach to installing EV charging stations.

Check out our library of resources ahead of your next EV charging station installation.

Learn how renewable energy systems, like solar, can fit into your business strategy.

Powering Chicago’s “Determining if a Solar Electric (Photovoltaic, PV) System is Right for Your Facility” eBook and fact sheets serve as your guide to incorporating solar into your business strategy. These leading industry experts share insights on the top considerations when it comes to solar energy, business benefits, as well as best practices when incorporating a solar energy system into your new or existing infrastructure.

Download our free solar energy system resources today and get started.

Powering Chicago’s Member Contractors are Licensed and Qualified for Your Next Project

Whether installing EVSE charging infrastructure, solar power systems, or retrofitting your building, using a qualified electrical contractor is crucial to ensuring your renewable energy project’s quality, safety, and longevity. Finding an electrical contractor can feel challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Use our “Find a Contractor” tool on our website to locate an electrical contractor in the Chicagoland area.