Leading the Charge for an Energy-Efficient Appalachia: What LDDs Can Do to Help Their Communities

Now more than ever, the role of local development districts (LDDs) as catalysts for public-private economic development partnerships in the Appalachian Region is vitally important. One area LDDs can be most effective in today is the development of local energy-efficiency programs and activities, which can help communities create jobs and save on energy costs.

This year's Development District Association of Appalachia training conference will focus on how LDDs can help promote and develop energy-efficiency efforts. A recent study by the Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance found that establishing bold energy-efficiency initiatives in Appalachia could significantly cut energy consumption, resulting not only in substantial cost savings (an estimated $21.4 billion per year by 2030) but also in the creation of jobs—more than 75,000 over the next 20 years.

Conference sessions will provide the latest information on policy impacting energy-efficiency efforts, and examples of local projects that showcase effective energy savings for local governments, businesses, and homeowners. Most important, the conference will provide information and ideas you will be able to use to further energy-efficiency programs in your communities.

The conference will also include activities that encourage networking and idea-sharing with colleagues from throughout Appalachia, and events that honor those who have made significant efforts to enhance the Region's economic and social well-being. Several conference events will be held in partnership with the National Association of Development Organizations, including the Federal Agency Networking Roundtable Session on Monday afternoon and the special entertainment provided by the Capitol Steps on Monday evening.

Conference program (PDF: 330 KB)