The ABCs of CBAs

        Alone on the couch, Dee Velopper sat drowsing as she nursed her second Whiskey Highball.  “Why does it always have to be so difficult?” she mumbled to herself. “I’m just trying to do my job.  Most people agree that we need to ramp up renewable energy production.  But they usually want to see it happen ‘somewhere else’.  Inevitably, when we propose a new solar or wind farm, there’s a local group raising heck and doing all they can to prevent it.  What are we supposed to do?  We can’t just keep pouring greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere,” she said yawning. “Just once, I wish we could work togeth…,” and Dee nodded off.

       Soon, Dee’s dream world came alive and included some guy named Avery chewing on his pencil.  Every so often, Avery seemed to get an idea then jotted it on his notepad.  His notes included: 

• BEFORE finding individuals to lease their land for a renewable energy project, convene a coalition of neighborhood associations, faith-based organizations, unions, environmental groups and other stakeholders.
• Together, with the coalition’s input create legally-binding contracts that lay out the benefits the community will receive from the project.  Call these Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs).
• The coalition’s support of the project raises the probability of state and local government approvals for zoning variances, state permits, and other regulatory approvals.
• Clearly, communities benefit from CBAs, but developers stand to gain also. CBAs increase their chances of starting and sustaining projects.

         Suddenly, in the dream Avery Boddywinns jumped up excitedly and jotted down examples of possible benefits that could be included in the agreement.

• Besides the landowner, neighbors in close proximity to an energy site also receive financial compensation.
• Guaranteed percentages to employ both local contractors and the permanent workforce including on-the-job training
• Annual contributions to a community economic development trust fund
• Local school funding
• Financial and technical support for a community-based Climate Action Plan

         Dee’s head snapped up. “That’s it!” she cried. “Instead of fighting these ‘Us vs. Them’ battles, CBAs benefit all parties.  Cooperation – what novel idea!  As the transition to cleaner and ultimately less expensive energy sources accelerates, cooperation can be a key element in building a healthier, more resilient world.  After all, it’s what we all want for our only home where we’re all forever… Earthbound.”