As North Carolina continues to rise as a powerhouse in the clean energy sector, Governor Josh Stein recently took a closer look at one of the key players driving this transformation. During a visit to Trane Technologies’ training facility for energy-efficient HVAC systems, Stein engaged with business leaders to discuss the state’s pivotal role in advancing a sustainable energy future.
Governor Stein praised North Carolina’s leadership in fostering a clean energy economy, emphasizing the dual benefits of job creation and cost savings for families. “North Carolina is leading the way in building a clean energy economy that creates good-paying jobs and keeps costs down for families,” said Governor Josh Stein. The governor credited advanced manufacturing firms like Trane Technologies for bolstering the state’s economy while ensuring energy reliability and affordability for residents.
Trane Technologies’ CEO, Dave Regnery, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability as a cornerstone of business success. “At Trane Technologies, we’ve shown that sustainability and strong business performance go hand in hand,” said Dave Regnery, chair and CEO of Trane Technologies. He underscored the importance of discussions that drive sustainable innovation and economic growth, expressing pride in collaborating with state leaders to enhance North Carolina’s competitiveness.
Further illustrating the intersection of sustainability and business strategy, Shelly Cayette-Weston of Hornets Sports & Entertainment shared insights into the Spectrum Center’s energy-efficient renovations. “North Carolina’s leadership in the clean energy economy shows how innovation and sustainability can drive long‑term economic growth,” said Shelly Cayette-Weston, President of Business Operations for Hornets Sports & Entertainment. These investments aim to boost operational strength, deliver value, and enrich fan experiences, all while contributing to the state’s economic vibrancy.
The conversation touched on the critical need for stable energy to support North Carolina’s tech sector, with Jerry Williams from SAS emphasizing the importance of modernizing the grid. “North Carolina’s technology sector is a powerful engine of the state’s economy—and it depends on stable, predictable energy to keep operations running and costs manageable,” said Jerry Williams, Chief Environmental Sustainability Officer at SAS.
Companies like Scout Motors are drawn to North Carolina due to its progressive energy policies and business-friendly environment. “Scout Motors is proud to call North Carolina home for our corporate headquarters,” said Ryan Rose, Chief Impact Officer at Scout Motors. The state’s focus on clean, reliable energy is crucial for attracting investments and supporting workforce needs.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. echoed this sentiment, showcasing its long-standing commitment to clean energy as both a business imperative and a sustainability pledge. “Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. has long prioritized investments in clean energy and operational efficiency because it makes good business sense and reflects our 45-year commitment to sustainability,” said Mandi McKay, Chief Sustainability and Social Impact Officer at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Governor Stein’s roundtable discussion with key stakeholders, including American Airlines, Duke Energy, and Michelin, further underscored the importance of clean energy in shaping business strategies and investments in North Carolina. The governor reiterated his commitment to expanding the state’s clean energy economy, reducing carbon dependence, and creating jobs.
North Carolina’s clean energy sector already supports over 100,000 jobs, with nearly 500,000 residents working for companies pursuing net-zero targets. Since taking office, Governor Stein has announced significant investments in the clean energy sector, totaling over $4.9 billion and creating more than 15,000 jobs.
Recent initiatives include the Energy Saver NC program, which helps households reduce utility costs through rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. This program, introduced last year at Trane Technologies, continues to expand statewide, demonstrating North Carolina’s proactive approach to energy sustainability.
Governor Stein also established the North Carolina Energy Policy Task Force, which released an interim report earlier this year, offering recommendations to ensure the state’s energy affordability and reliability. Read the Energy Policy Task Force’s interim report here.
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