Forest Entrepreneurship Series Equips the Next Generation of Sierra Forest-Focused Businesses

Forest Entrepreneurship Series Equips the Next Generation of Sierra Forest-Focused Businesses The final session of the Forest Entrepreneurship Series wrapped up in Auburn on July 18–19, marking the completion of a program designed to help entrepreneurs build businesses that strengthen both the Sierra’s economy and its forests. Over the course of the series, 137 participants […]
How a November Ballot Measure can support housing in the Sierra

SBC is supporting the Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond Act of 2026 (Prop 1), which will go in front of voters on the November ballot. Its passage is critical to advancing California’s housing goals, as Prop 1 would provide much-needed sustained investment in housing programs and projects across the state. Progress without it would be much more challenging, as funding for many housing programs has been exhausted.
Sierra Jobs First Shindig takes Place in Sonora

Sierra Jobs First stakeholders and Catalyst projects from across the seven-county Jobs First region gathered Friday, August 21st, in Sonora for a day of in-person updates and collaboration at the second annual Shindig. Last year’s Shindig was held in Mono County, highlighting the important lift of convening both East and West slopes of the Sierra to create a community-led, climate-forward, and inclusive financial future for our region.
August Legislative Update

The Legislature is entering the final days of the legislative session with a packed agenda. Hundreds of bills still need to reach the Governor’s desk, while legislators face major decisions on climate funding, the Governor’s wildfire liability proposal, and a range of other competing policy priorities.
Summer Energy Savings: Understanding Time-of-Use Rates and Simple Ways to Save

Summer Energy Savings: Understanding Time-of-Use Rates and Simple Ways to Save Summer is a great time to enjoy warmer weather, but it can be a challenge to keep energy use in check. As temperatures rise, air conditioners, fans, refrigerators, and other appliances can work harder, increasing electricity use and energy costs. A few simple changes […]
July Legislative Update

Our July update from our government affairs team with what’s happening this month in the Capitol, information on the new Wildfire Action Plan, and a link to our Wildfire Resilience Workforce survey. This month’s blog also features a look at the upcoming Housing Bond that will be on ballots this November, and how it will impact communities in the Sierra.
California Climate & Energy Collaborative (CCEC) Forum Recap

California Climate & Energy Collaborative Form Recap On July 24-26, Sierra Business Council (SBC) joined more than 500 climate and energy professionals from across California at the California Climate & Energy Collaborative (CCEC) Forum, where local governments, Regional Energy Networks (RENs), utility providers, and community-based organizations from across California to share strategies for advancing the […]
June Advocacy Updates

This issue takes a closer look at recent changes to California’s Cap-and-Invest program and what they could mean for climate investments across the state. You’ll also find the latest on what’s happening in Sacramento that impacts on our region.
On-Bill Financing Updates:

Our Sierra Nevada Energy Watch team shares new updates to Pacific Gas and Electric’s On-Bill Financing (OBF) program, whihc continues to evolve to better align with today’s energy priorities while ensuring the program remains sustainable for years to come.
Katie Hawley

Climate & Energy Technician