The Road to Renewables: Doug Smith on Hampton Roads’ Clean Energy Journey

Green Giants: Titans of Renewable Energy Podcast

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Green Giants, host Wes Ashworth talks with Doug Smith, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Alliance, about how Hampton Roads, Virginia, is emerging as a renewable energy hub. Doug shares pivotal moments in the region’s shift from traditional energy to offshore wind and other renewable sectors, reshaping Hampton Roads' economy and workforce.

Key Topics:

• Offshore Wind Development: Hampton Roads is poised to become a leader in offshore wind with projects like Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW), aiming to install 176 turbines. Doug discusses the region’s coastal advantages, skilled workforce, and logistics readiness for large-scale wind projects.
• The Regional Energy Roadmap: Doug explains the creation of a regional energy roadmap to provide independent data for energy planning. This roadmap empowers local decision-makers and aligns community efforts towards sustainable energy goals.
• Reshoring and Green Manufacturing: Hampton Roads is drawing green manufacturers like LS GreenLink, creating jobs and securing local production of essential components for renewables. Doug shares insights on building a regional green supply chain and attracting investment under the Inflation Reduction Act.
• Community Engagement and Education: Doug highlights the importance of educating local leaders and residents on the benefits of renewable projects, helping to overcome resistance and build regional support.
• Exploring Nuclear Energy: With its history in naval nuclear energy, Hampton Roads is also considering small modular reactors (SMRs) as a stable complement to renewables. Doug explains how nuclear can meet growing energy demands and enhance resilience.
• Military and Federal Investments: As one of the top U.S. regions for Department of Defense spending, Hampton Roads is leveraging federal investments to strengthen green infrastructure and align with national priorities.

Why Listen?
This episode offers a unique look at Hampton Roads’ transformation and provides practical insights into creating a resilient green economy. Doug’s strategies around regional energy planning, community engagement, and public-private partnerships highlight how any region can transition to renewable energy.

About Doug Smith:
Doug Smith, CEO of the Hampton Roads Alliance, leads the region’s economic shift towards renewable energy and green manufacturing. His experience in regional economic development has positioned Hampton Roads as a leader in offshore wind, green supply chains, and sustainable job creation.

Timestamps:

• 0:00 - Introduction to Doug Smith and Hampton Roads Alliance
• 2:30 - Shifting from pipelines to renewables
• 6:15 - Regional energy roadmap and community buy-in
• 10:45 - Offshore wind projects and job creation
• 18:00 - Reshoring green manufacturing
• 23:15 - Nuclear energy and military collaboration
• 28:45 - Public-private partnerships for economic resilience

Links:
Doug Smith on LinkedIn
Hampton Roads Alliance

Wes Ashworth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weslgs/

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