Vehya – Working to Help Consumers and Businesses Electrify Faster
Detroit-based Vehya is a two-year-old marketplace, which offers services to businesses and individuals looking to adopt EV technology. SBN Detroit interviewed founder and CEO William McCoy to find out more. Q: What can you tell us about Vehya? A: Vehya (pronounced and meaning “via”) is a marketplace for electrification. With everyone moving (or trying to move to) electrification quickly for a sustainable future, we know the project management – research, execution, installation, maintenance – portion can be challenging. So, we created a platform that makes that process easy. Before, if a consumer or office wanted to get an easy charger, they would have to find an electrician, vet them, research products to find the best solution, schedule installation, etc. Vehya turns those steps into a turnkey process. We sell electric vehicle chargers, solar, battery storage, and other resiliency products and have a network of certified service providers to install and service them. Q: Are the end users consumers or businesses? A: Both. In the beginning, we focused more on the commercial and quickly realized there was just as much of a need on the consumer side. The people we were working with on commercial projects were asking if we could do this for them at their homes, or for their clients so we created a consumer-facing platform as well. Q: What needs do you believe Vehya solves? A: People and businesses that are looking to transition to electric often do not have the time or resources for the research and logistics involved. So, we fill that gap. Early adopters will jump in and figure it out, but for others – for the mainstream – they need help. We streamline the process to help both consumers and businesses electrify faster. Q: Tell me about your new partnership with DTE. A: DTE was looking to help their customers streamline the process of obtaining electric vehicle chargers both from a financial and logistical standpoint. They launched an RFP and ultimately chose Vehya for this partnership, which we are so happy to participate in. It’s a fantastic program because it opens the door for many more people to make the transition to EV who couldn’t without the financing DTE’s program offers. Further, many homes need service panel upgrades to support EV charging and that is an additional cost, so the financing becomes even more important. Customers can now come onto the platform, buy a charger and have it shipped to their home, identify an electrician to install it, and sign up for financing all in one place. Through this program, we’ve had about 2,500 enter the platform chargers and have facilitated close to 400 installs in the three months since it launched. Q: Tell me about the partnership with Stellantis A: In March, we became a preferred partner for EV charger sales, installation, and maintenance for Stellantis’ U.S. auto dealers. Our program includes Vehya-certified electricians, detailed site surveys, comprehensive estimates, and a dedicated account manager that handles all administrative and project management duties. Q: How is the Vehya marketplace different than other platforms? A: The fact that we offer products, service providers, and project management is different than other platforms. You can buy a charger on a marketplace like Amazon but then you have to figure out the installation. We vet and certify our service providers as well. Q: Tell me about that vetting and certification process. A: Most of our electricians are certified by the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP). We then certify them regarding experience and licensing. They must have the highest levels of insurance. And we do a background check. Q: How do you think the work you do impacts Southeast Michigan businesses? A: A lot of businesses want to electrify their fleets and company cars but don’t know where to start and don’t have the resources to do the research. Workforce development and job creation are also important pieces to us. Vehya is the marketplace that connects consumers and businesses with highly qualified service providers. It connects these service providers to people raising their hands for help in turn creating and bolstering careers. Q: What does the future look like for the company? A: We are working to make our online processes even quicker and to scale our offering. We are also working with underserviced communities to take advantage of EV transition opportunities as well. Financing is key. An average install in the Detroit area is $2,300, because as I had mentioned, a service panel upgrade is typically needed. We are working with banks now to put together consumer packaging to spur adoption and make it easier for more people. Equity and inclusion have to be considered – we need everyone to be a part of this. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on sustainable business practices in and around Detroit.
Working to Sequester Carbon Within Urban Wood
According to Tiffany Giacobazzi, Ann Arbor urban forestry & natural resources planning coordinator the Ann Arbor Forestry Department, the city of Ann Arbor loses about 600 trees per year. This reduces its carbon storage capacity dramatically. Much of the loss sits within furniture-grade urban lumber, meaning the trees can be repurposed for furniture or other long-lived urban wood goods that aid in sequestering carbon, versus being used for mulch or firewood or being diverted to landfills. Ann Arbor has partnered with Urban Ashes to implement its Circular UrbanWood Triconomy™ (CUT Model™). This model is meant to ensure that logs are put to their highest and best use to sequester as much carbon as possible. SBN Detroit spoke with Paul Hickman, Urban Ashes founder, CEO, and principal designer, and Tiffany Giacobazzi, Ann Arbor urban forestry & natural resources planning coordinator, to find out more. Q: What is Urban Ashes, and how did this program with Ann Arbor come to be? Hickman: I will provide a little background here for context because Urban Ashes has gone through a bit of an evolution. Initially, it started with a major career change for me by taking a job in California with one of the first sustainable lumber companies in the world. I eventually moved back to Michigan and started the original Urban Wood Project with three others in the early 2000s in response to the infestation of the emerald ash borer to help utilize trees beyond mulch, which was the most common response for the disposal of ash trees then and now. That was the impetus, but it immediately expanded to include all fallen urban trees and into Urban Ashes. Urban Ashes grew to sell to over 250 retail partners across 43 states over ten years, repurposing hundreds of tons of lumber into picture frames, furniture, and other items. From the beginning, our focus was also to work with formerly incarcerated individuals as a labor force, and that remains a strong component of the Urban Ashes business model today. Over time, the lack of wraparound (support) services (for workers) took a heavy toll, and eventually, we shifted entirely, shut down our manufacturing, and decided we needed to focus on building the infrastructure to develop the supply chain more thoroughly and consistently and grow the markets for utilization as well as develop the critically needed wraparound services needed for our target labor pool. So, we partnered with NextCycle Michigan and went through their FLOWS track which led to an EGLE grant. Then came the vision for the Circular UrbanWood Triconomy™. We were fortunate enough to work with the University of Michigan graduate students for 18 months to validate the viability of the model, and beginning in 2021, we have piloted it with the city of Ann Arbor. Q: How and why did the city of Ann Arbor come to change the way it processes trees and work with Urban Ashes? Giacobazzi: As the city has shifted with its sustainability goals and A2Zero plan, we started to look at how we could divert more out of the waste stream. We wanted to achieve the highest best use for materials that come out of the urban forest. So, we connected with Urban Ashes and partnered on this project. I have support all up and down the line from city administration which is really important. We are fundamentally changing the way we are dealing with urban wood and our urban forest so we must all be in support of this new process. Q: What does this program involve? Hickman: For years, all fallen urban trees in Ann Arbor (as is the case with most cities) were used for mulch or firewood. Accordingly, Ann Arbor loses approximately 1,111 metric tons of carbon every year and we were able to show them that by implementing the CUT Model™, we can capture upwards of 700 metric tons of that 1,111 and keep it in use and sequestered. The process involves cutting the trees down in a way that holds the most carbon and is best suited for the mills. The process also involves setting up the mills, facilities, contracts, and tracking methods, and then implementing everything. So, that is the work that Urban Ashes has been doing. Q: What do you, as the Urban Forestry and Natural Resources Planner, hope to achieve through Circular UrbanWood Triconomy™? Giacobazzi: I want to make sure the trees and lumber that have to come out in Ann Arbor go to the best use possible. I want it diverted from the waste stream and we are looking to lock up the carbon for as long as possible. We put such time and effort and thought into the development, care, and maintenance of our urban forest, it seems that the next natural best step is to complete the lifecycle of these trees and extend the usefulness of the trees once they die or have to come out. Q: In what ways has the lumber from Ann Arbor been repurposed? Hickman: Typically, the lumber goes to mills to be cut into slabs or dimensional lumber, kiln-dried, and processed, and then is sold as raw lumber to manufacturing or local woodworkers. The wood is then used for items such as furniture, frames, ceiling/wall cladding, flooring, household trim packages, decorative pieces, and more. Q: What other cities are you working with? Hickman: We are farthest along with Ann Arbor. But we are also working with Grand Rapids and are in talks with Detroit, Lansing, Traverse City, and several others outside of Michigan. In terms of businesses, we are working with a startup through Centrepolis called Lily Pad Labs out of Holland, Mich., to provide urban black locust for decking and tables for their autonomous electric boats. We are also working in conjunction with Centrepolis to help bring Daika Wood’s game-changing urban wood waste processes and products to Michigan. These are a few of the things we have happening at the moment. Q; In what ways do you think Urban
Banking With a Sustainability Mission
BETH CORREA, DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY, FLAGSTAR BANK, AND A LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE MEMBER FOR SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS NETWORK DETROIT Flagstar Bank understands that environmental concerns have far-reaching implications for society and businesses alike. By prioritizing sustainability, we demonstrate our commitment to mitigating our environmental impact. In 2022, we hired an ESG/Sustainability Director, Kirby Brendsel, in order to streamline and enhance our sustainability strategy as well as to build out our broader ESG efforts. This dedicated role ensures that environmental considerations are integrated into the bank’s strategies, policies, and operations. Kirby brings many years of experience in the ESG/Sustainability space. As part of his role, he oversees the implementation of sustainable practices such as reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste generation, and promoting eco-friendly initiatives. ADOPTING SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES Adopting sustainable practices—and developing sustainable products and services that meet customers’ needs—can significantly enhance Flagstar’s corporate reputation. In an era where customers increasingly favor socially responsible companies, sustainability initiatives can differentiate Flagstar from its competitors. By demonstrating our commitment to sustainability, the bank can attract environmentally conscious customers, employees, and shareholders who value ethical and responsible business practices. This positive focus on sustainability can lead to increased customer loyalty, brand recognition, and, ultimately, financial success. Sustainability initiatives at Flagstar also serve as a proactive approach to risk mitigation and long-term financial stability. By identifying and addressing potential environmental risks, such as climate change impacts or regulatory changes, we can safeguard our operations and investments. Moreover, sustainable practices often lead to cost savings through increased energy efficiency, reduced resource consumption, and streamlined processes. By minimizing operational costs and creating a more resilient business model, we can ensure our long-term financial stability. EMPLOYEES ARE KEY STAKEHOLDERS Flagstar recognizes that employees are key stakeholders in sustainability initiatives. In late 2022, we launched an environmental/sustainability-focused Employee Resource Group named the Green Team that helps us tap into the passion and creativity of our workforce. It also serves as a platform for employees to collaborate, share ideas, and contribute to sustainable initiatives. This engagement fosters a sense of purpose and empowers employees to make a meaningful difference. Moreover, the Green Team can act as a catalyst for innovation, encouraging employees to identify new opportunities and implement sustainable solutions throughout the organization. FINANCE INTEGRATING ESG FACTORS The world of finance is increasingly integrating ESG factors into investment decisions. By prioritizing sustainability, Flagstar aligns itself with emerging ESG standards and meets investor expectations. Staying ahead of regulatory changes and industry trends positions us as an attractive investment option for socially responsible investors. This commitment to sustainability enhances transparency, and accountability, and ultimately contributes to long-term shareholder value. In today’s rapidly changing world, the importance of sustainability cannot be overstated. Organizations across various sectors are realizing the need to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. At Flagstar, we recognize the significance of sustainability and are committed to incorporating environmentally responsible practices into the fabric of our organization. Flagstar’s sustainability initiatives not only benefit the environment but also contribute to our long-term financial stability and success. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on sustainable business practices in and around Detroit.
Three Strategies for Developing Current and Future Sustainability, ESG Leaders
A common challenge for every business committed to sustainability is recruiting, retaining, and developing the right talent. Companies in Southeast Michigan and beyond are faced with the accelerating need to formalize their sustainability efforts, collect and analyze data, respond to government policies, answer to stakeholders, and more. And they need highly skilled people to lead all of these functions while tying them back to company strategy, operations, and business model. That’s the driving factor for WholeWorks, SustainabiliD, and The Erb Institute, which work to educate current and future business leaders in sustainability. Laura Asiala and the team at WholeWorks help business leaders, professionals, and functional experts accelerate their ability to connect the most important, or material, ESG issues in their organizations to achieve a return on investment and make a sustainable impact across the triple bottom line. SustainabiliD – owned and led by Kerry Duggan – is a strategic advising firm focused on innovating to net zero. SustainabiliD offers leadership sustainability counsel, strategy, implementation, and communication services. In short, Duggan and her team help coach and shape sustainability leadership within businesses. Erb Institute Managing Director Terry Nelidov and his colleagues are preparing the CSOs, CEOs, and sustainability leaders of the future. SBN Detroit posed questions about educating current and future business leaders in sustainability to these three industry leaders to learn their perspectives. Q: What will the impact of future chief sustainability officers have on businesses and society? Asiala: I see the CSO’s responsibility as critical for a sustainable business—at least for the foreseeable future. Three key roles are distinct for this leader. The first is the ability to reframe business opportunities and risks in environmental, social, and economic terms, as opposed to merely economic. The second is the ability to connect the dots between ESG opportunities and risks to contribute to a return on invested capital—and that can either be focused on increasing that rate of return or strategically protecting it. Both are valuable. Without a return on invested capital that meets the expectations of investors, there is no sustainable business. Finally, there is the ability to move seamlessly inside the organization, creating and encouraging a community of like-minded professionals that are seeded throughout the critical functions of the organization. These same attributes are also important in interacting with key stakeholders outside of the organization. This is much more about translation and influence than command and control. Duggan: Maybe it’s time to get away from buzzwords that keep us in one “boutique” corner. Future leaders will need to be able to integrate across their organizations, sectors, and throughout society. The impact needs to touch every corner of the global economy; therefore, we need to think of these leaders as chief integration and innovation officers! Nelidov: An enormous impact, two ways in particular. First, a CSO should be the chief advocate—along with the CEO— for business and sustainability within the company. The CSO needs to have a clear voice with the CEO since the CEO is ultimately responsible for integrating sustainability into all aspects of company strategy and operations. The CSO is there to help the CEO and to ensure that sustainability is not left out of the priorities. In terms of influence on society, the CSO plays a very significant role. The role of business in society keeps growing. Business is the most powerful force in the world. It’s the role of the CSO to harness that power for human rights, and positive social and environmental impact. Stakeholders – both internal and external – are asking companies to play an active role in social and environmental development, and that all points back to the CSO. Q: What kinds of traits do you think ultimately make someone a strong CSO? Asiala: It’s very important to have a trusted, respected leader and people on his/her team who can work across and within the company to identify the most important ESG issues and translate them both into competitive strategy and positive impact – socially, economically, and environmentally. That’s because integrating sustainability into an enterprise is not only the responsibility of a few select professionals, but the necessary work of a broad array of business functions: marketing and sales, business development, consulting, sourcing and supply chain, manufacturing, operations, and logistics, research and development, product development, IT, finance, and HR, among others. More than ever, a critical success factor is to equip managers and functional experts to integrate sustainability into the areas of the business for which they already have responsibility and authority. A CSO needs to lead that effort and create an environment for ongoing learning, experimentation, and innovation. That’s more than making resources available—although it is that—it’s about creating a community of support, encouragement, and accountability around these issues. Duggan: In many ways, you have to have the willingness to put your head down and do the work, not just talk about it. 21st-century leadership in sustainability means you need to understand the technical and financial feasibility of necessary work, but you also need a skillset in community engagement. I’m finding more and more movement in collaboration and creativity. Collaboration is a soft skill and a contact sport. It’s not easy but it’s absolutely necessary. The silos we spend our days in are not helping advance sustainability measures. We need more silo busters on the field! Nelidov: They are, essentially, the same traits that business leaders need but with a focus on science and social/environmental impact. That’s why we created this dual-degree program at the graduate level. CSOs need the skills to be able to understand the impact of science on business, and the impact of business on society. They need to understand climate change and the business implications that come with it. They need a grounding in stakeholders, communities, and social justice. CSOs also need strong people skills and relationship-building skills. They need to understand the changing expectations for business in society and the emerging role of business and nonprofit leaders. They need to get things done for sustainability by
A Focus on Housing and Commercial Corridor Stabilization
Detroit native and Councilwoman Latisha Johnson has been active in the community for 15 years and represents Detroit City Council District 4 on the east side of the city bordering Harper Woods and Grosse Pointe, a community she’s lived in most of her life. She attended Detroit Public Schools and graduated from the University of Michigan- Dearborn, where she earned a degree in finance. She began her career in Detroit’s tourism industry, marketing the city to visitors to attract spending within the local economy. Johnson began her public service in 2007 when she became vice president of the East English Village Neighborhood Association. During her tenure, she led efforts to eliminate blight, hold financial institutions accountable, and prevent residential property tax foreclosures. In 2014, she founded MECCA Development Corp. to address concerns of well-being, workforce development, youth engagement, and neighborhood revitalization. She has also has served as treasurer for the 5th Precinct Police/Community Relations Council, vice chair of the City of Detroit’s Board of Zoning Appeals; member of the Wayne Metro Community Action Agency Regional Advisory Council, and was a volunteer with Wayne State University’s AmeriCorps Urban Safety Program. SBN Detroit spoke to Johnson about her sustainability goals and about how residential development and business development go hand in hand. Q: What are your primary goals for sustainability in the city? A: One key thing is the evaluation of our internal processes. I co-chair the Small Business Task Force with two council colleagues, Mary Waters, and Angela Whitfield-Calloway. Our focus is to ensure that our requirements and practices for small businesses to bid on projects are not insurmountable. One example that came to light just recently: We had a contract come before us, and our procurement team had to make calls to companies to encourage them to bid. In a healthier environment, we should have contractors knocking on our door to bid on projects. This showed us that a lot of companies are overwhelmed by our processes. Small businesses just don’t have the resources to navigate them, so we are now trying to streamline the system and reduce paperwork and red tape. We want to find ways to help grow small businesses, particularly in the neighborhoods of Detroit. Q: In 2014, you founded MECCA Development Corp. to address concerns of well-being, workforce development, youth engagement, and neighborhood revitalization. How does this work impact and inform your role as a councilwoman? A: It definitely impacts what I do now. MECCA had four areas of focus: workforce development; residential development; seniors; and youth. The area I became passionate about – especially as we saw property values climbing – was and is residential development. Houses have become unattainable for lower-income families in this climate. Too many people cannot afford the down payments and can’t qualify for loans. Now I’m hyperfocused on affordable home ownership. This also comes from who I am as a Detroit native who grew up in a lower-income household. I have firsthand experience with these challenges. Therefore, I’m working on programs and opportunities to assist. We recently started a Down Payment Assistance Program to provide up to $25,000 for lower-income renters who want to purchase a house in the city. I’m also working on getting the city of Detroit to support Community Land Trusts. I recently worked with a group of students from the University of Michigan to understand how split-rate taxes (which tax vacant land at a higher rate than structures and improvements) would impact Detroit homeowners. I also established the Equitable Development Task Force, which focuses on addressing underserved communities through policies and programs that reduce disparities while fostering places that are healthy and vibrant. The task force may include residents, representatives from the community, labor, the business sector, as well as any other individuals interested in participating. So yes, MECCA helped shape and inform the work I do around housing and home ownership. I’m always striving to find ways to provide support to low-income families. Q: How do you think residential development impacts businesses in Detroit? A: When I look at our district, the areas that have benefited from the Strategic Neighborhood Fund – Jefferson, East Warren, and now Gratiot – are the areas in which residential properties have also stabilized. So, we know that revitalizing commercial corridors helps stabilize residential, and vice versa. More businesses will come into these areas – it’s cyclical. I’d also like to see people having the opportunity to build equity in their homes that they can pull out to start their own businesses and build generational wealth. It all connects. Years ago, when I worked at Detroit Convention and Visitors Bureau, and we hosted site inspections, we had to craft the routes to prevent taking clients through blighted commercial corridors. When commercial corridors look a certain way, it gives the impression that the neighborhoods are even worse. So, we need more of a focus on both housing and commercial corridors to become stabilized, and they depend on one another to do so. Q: What are the biggest challenges you face? A: First, the tax rate in Detroit. It’s a challenge for residents and businesses. Second, is the lack of promotion of our neighborhoods and commercial corridors to encourage businesses to establish there. No entity proactively promotes and connects entrepreneurs to these communities. There is a big opportunity there. Q: What are other opportunities for the city, and how will these affect businesses? A: As I mentioned earlier, there is an opportunity to streamline the city’s internal processes so that smaller businesses can bid on and secure projects. Another opportunity is the promotion of harmonious growth between business communities and residential communities. We have not done that well. I think businesses and communities can work together better to support one another. When a business does this, it will inherently last longer in the community And when it comes to bringing industry and manufacturing to certain areas, the city has to do a better job of ensuring that we are protecting residents.
Programmatic Grantmaking and Social Investing in Detroit
The Kresge Foundation in Detroit works to collaborate with cross-sector partners to promote and expand long-term, equitable opportunities in Kresge’s hometown through grantmaking and social investing. As such, they are one of the largest funders of environmental work in the city and region. This funding has gone to several of the programs and entities SBN Detroit has covered in our shared content. We spoke with Wendy Lewis Jackson, the managing director for Kresge’s Detroit Program, to get her perspective on the foundation’s impact in the Detroit area and specifically businesses in Southeast Michigan. Jackson leads Kresge’s efforts to revitalize Detroit and strengthen its social and economic fabric. Her work supports organizations providing economic opportunity for low-income people and addresses the needs of vulnerable children and families. Before joining Kresge in 2008, Wendy was a program director for Children and Family Initiatives and executive director for education initiatives at the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. She taught at Grand Valley State University and has co-authored and assisted in the publication of several reports and publications that address community needs and problem-solving. Wendy earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from the University of Michigan. She also holds a master’s degree in social work from U-M, with a concentration in community organization and social policy and planning. Q: The Kresge Foundation was founded in 1924 to promote human progress. How does that mission inform the Kresge Foundation’s work today? A: The mission at that time was very broad, and since that time it’s been refined to include expanding opportunities in America’s cities with an emphasis on supporting families with low income. We now work in cities across the country. Detroit is our hometown and our signature place-based community. We have three other cities of focus and those are Memphis, New Orleans, and Fresno. But we are a national foundation deeply focused on place-based work in hundreds of cities. Q: What are the shifts you’ve seen since started in this role in 2008 and how has the focus changed? A: Our focus shifted starting in 2007 when our president Rip Rapson joined the foundation. Our north star changed from a philanthropy primarily focused on capital challenge grant campaigns for building projects across the country to programmatic grantmaking and social investing designed to ensure that people with low incomes have full access to economic and social opportunity in America’s cities. We now invest deeply in Detroit alongside six discipline-based foundation programs – health, community development, environment, arts and culture, human services, and higher education. Q: What type of work are you doing in Detroit toward your environment focus? A: In Detroit, we work citywide and in neighborhoods to advance economic equity, quality of life, and climate resilience for Detroiters so environmental justice and mitigating the impacts of climate change are a huge part of our portfolio. We support community-based groups and organizations to realize their goals when it comes to climate resilience. We also offer support for advocacy efforts within the state focused on ensuring greater environmental sustainability. Q: What are some examples? A: One of the largest examples involves our work in the Jefferson Chalmers community and the east side of the city. We recently announced the launch of a multimillion-dollar network of solar-powered resilience hubs on Detroit’s east side where residents can go for emergency services and support in times of flooding and other emergencies. The city of Detroit, Eastside Community Network, and Brilliant Detroit will have the first three hubs with more to be added later. We are also working with Jefferson East Inc. and also the University of Michigan Sustainability Clinic on supporting their efforts to address flooding challenges and helping residents to mobilize and advocate for change. Q: What do you think the Kresge Foundation’s impact is on the businesses in Southeast Michigan? A: We hope that through our grantmaking and social investing we begin to raise awareness and possibilities for businesses to get engaged in projects that allow communities better access to improved solar, mobility, and more. One example of this is our partnership with the city of Detroit and DTE on the O’Shea Urban Solar Farm. We don’t want Detroiters to be left behind in the movement toward climate resilience. Businesses in Southeast Michigan are poised to be leaders in the movement to address climate change. So, we are actively seeking opportunities to help businesses ensure that Detroiters have greater access to sustainability technologies and opportunities and make sure community-based groups are able to engage with businesses in these efforts. Q: What are your efforts in sustainability as it pertains to jobs and workforce development in Southeast Michigan? A: I’m glad you brought it up because our efforts are quite significant. A big focus is to make sure Detroiters have access to new and existing jobs in environmental sustainability and climate resilience. We are looking to expand those opportunities now. We supported workforce development efforts through a partnership with the Greening of Detroit. We also recently announced $1.7 million in grant funding for six projects that will benefit communities and wildlife habitats in southeast Michigan. Another example relates to the resilience hubs I mentioned. That project includes a business accelerator to engage Black and Brown contractors in the solar, battery storage, and electric vehicle infrastructure work. Q: What do you think is the role of businesses in Southeast Michigan when it comes to sustainability? A: They have a significant role. As I said, Detroit is in a good position to be a leader in climate resilience. Businesses here are in the process of bringing new and advanced technology toward these efforts and they must ensure all Detroiters have access. It’s critical that businesses are engaged in these efforts. I’d like to share an open invitation to businesses in Southeast Michigan as we are open to partnerships that will ensure Detroit is climate-ready and climate-smart. Q: In terms of this, what are the biggest opportunities? A: We have to look deeply into both the Infrastructure and Jobs
DTE Energy’s Agenda for Mitigating Climate Change
SHAWN PATTERSON, VP, ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY, DTE ENERGY, AND MEMBER OF THE SBND LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE, SHARES HIS PERSPECTIVE ON MITIGATING CLIMATE CHANGE AS A TOP PRIORITY. When you’ve been in business a while, you come to understand that there is no such thing as “just business.” What we do impacts our communities, our customers, and our world. That’s part of why, at DTE Energy, we’ve built sustainability into our plans for the future to help ensure that we’re going above and beyond for what matters most. CLIMATE CHANGE IS AN ERA-DEFINING ISSUE Climate change is one of the defining issues of our era. That’s why last fall, DTE Electric unveiled our 2022 CleanVision Integrated Resource Plan, our proposal to fundamentally transform the way we produce electricity in our state, accelerating coal plant retirements and investing in cleaner Michigan-made energy – including wind and solar parks – to accelerate reductions in carbon emissions. These plans include MIGreenPower which gives both business and residential customers the opportunity to support clean energy infrastructure right here in Michigan without needing to install or maintain it themselves. Michigan businesses have already gotten involved in this program in a big way. Corporate leaders Ford and Stellantis made two of the largest renewable energy purchases ever from a utility in the U.S. in 2022, adding more than 1,000 megawatts of renewable energy to their automotive operations. This, combined with more than 85,000 residential enrollees, the MIGreenPower program is on pace to avoid as many as three million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, helping create a cleaner future for all. While natural gas is one of the cleanest burning fossil fuels, we offer ways for customers to offset their natural gas usage, too, with the Natural Gas Balance program. For a small fee, the program uses carbon offsets to protect forests across the Upper Peninsula and support the advancement of non-fossil fuels with renewable natural gas. This program is designed to play a role as we aspire to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. ENERGY EFFICIENCIES We also strive to help the businesses that support our communities with ways to make their operations more energy efficient. With our business energy advisors, business owners can find the right energy-efficient solutions for their operations. From business-specific tips and changes to technologies to help make it easier, we are here to guide our customers toward a more energy-efficient way of doing business. But carbon reduction isn’t the only thing we’re working on. We also strive to build a Michigan-based set of suppliers. DTE has invested nearly $18 billion with Michigan-based suppliers since 2010, creating and sustaining 65,000 Michigan jobs. As a founding member of Pure Michigan Business Connect, we recognize the importance of connecting with local suppliers and we require that most new bids include at least two Michigan companies. Sustaining local businesses as well as our environment are key components to building a better future for all of Michigan. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on sustainable business practices in and around Detroit.
Improved Green Loan Access for Detroit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Residents
In 2009, the State of Michigan created the nation’s first nonprofit “green bank” called Michigan Saves. The organization provides credit enhancements for credit unions and other lenders that reduce their loan default risk. In exchange, the lenders lower interest rates to help homeowners to pay for home improvements that reduce fossil fuel use, such as high-efficiency appliances like furnaces, central air, and water heaters. That means lower greenhouse gas emissions. Fast forward to 2022 at which time Michigan Saves secured a $2.5 million loan from the Kresge Foundation and developed the Detroit Loan Fund, fundamentally changing the loan process to approve more loans for residents, and now nonprofits and small businesses in Detroit. The fund eliminates credit scores as loan criteria, focusing instead on the borrower’s ability to make loan payments. In nine months, Michigan Saves through the fund has reached a $1 million milestone in loans. SBN Detroit talked to Todd Parker, vice president for Michigan Saves, about how the fund benefits residents, nonprofits, small businesses, the economy, and the environment. Q: How does this help nonprofits and small businesses in Detroit qualify for loans? A: Yes, especially in today’s financial environment with rising interest rates because the program provides 7% fixed-interest-rate loans and, therefore, financial certainty. The Detroit Loan Fund provides funding to Detroit nonprofits, community organizations, and small businesses for solar photovoltaic, battery storage, or electrification projects. The loans provide direct financial benefits in the form of utility savings and have longer terms than most commercial loans – seven to ten years. Customers may also be eligible for federal tax credits, which further improves the business case for the loan. In all, the loan provides great terms and affordable funding for those who have not been able to receive it before. Q: Is this model of lending unusual? A: Yes. Regarding the residential component, we are focusing on the ability of the loan recipient to pay, and not simply their credit score. Very few, if any lenders do this. Commercial lending is more competitive. A 7% loan in this environment that does not rely on credit criteria is innovative. We tried to develop these programs to fill a market niche and do something other lenders are not. Q: What was the path to creating these loans? A: These loans were developed because we analyzed the loan application denial rate and saw that Detroit homeowners are denied twice as much as others in Wayne County. This systemic inequity has been baked into the credit process for years. We knew something had to be done. Detroit has been underserved for years and a loan product like this opens many doors for the betterment of the city. The concept could work statewide as well. Q: Is the intention to go statewide with these loans? A: If funding comes through yes, we’d like to expand statewide. Rolling it out in Detroit allowed us to test it, and it’s been very successful. Q: From the residential perspective, how does assisting those who have been denied previously in getting loans for energy efficiency programs help the overall communities? A: The program is designed to target customers who have the highest energy burden. Those who are paying the most for energy relative to their income. Old homes lack insulation and lack quality windows and high-efficiency heating and air. The loans allow people to reduce their utility bills but also improve the health and safety and comfort of their homes. Providing comfort and savings is our goal. Q: It also helps the environment, yes? A: Yes. It certainly helps reduce greenhouse emissions and the carbon footprint. On the commercial side, the nonprofit and small business program targets solar PV (photovoltaic) systems, which allows them to generate energy and put it back on the grid as well as get bill credits, so there are environmental and financial benefits there as well. Q: What are the criteria for accessing these loans? A: The criteria are simple. Small businesses or nonprofits simply need to demonstrate they can pay by showing cash flow. We are less focused on traditional underwriting criteria. And more focused on a holistic view to make sure they have the means to repay. Q: What else do we need to know? A: The loan programs are contractor driven, meaning they are promoted through our network of authorized contractors. Also, we get referrals from utilities like DTE, community action agencies, or other community groups. Ultimately the nonprofit or business will then enter into a direct relationship with the lender. Q: How does the lending process with businesses impact nonprofits? A: These types of measures are being heavily incentivized through the Inflation Reduction Act. It’s an exciting component for nonprofits, who don’t have to pay taxes and therefore cannot take advantage of tax credits. The IRA legislation changed the game by saying nonprofits are eligible for direct pay equivalent of a tax credit when they invest in solar PV or battery storage systems. This changes the financial picture and opportunities dramatically and provides a direct financial incentive for nonprofits. Q: How do you see it impacting the future of Detroit and the economy? A: Our funding will be exhausted this summer. If we get additional funding to continue the program, we will be able to help significantly more homeowners. Currently, we are already approaching 250 projects. On the commercial side, once the federal government releases guidance and more funding, we expect nonprofits and businesses to package this funding with federal grants and tax credits to make the projects more financially attractive. The loans also help customers deploy energy-saving steps, and therefore save on utility bills while potentially generating revenue from tax credits. These savings free them up to apply that money elsewhere and put them in a better financial position. This goes for both residents and businesses. Also, we are working with Detroit-based contractors on installing these solar and energy improvements, so the money stays local. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on sustainable
The Inflation Reduction Act – How Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Can Benefit
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 includes $500 billion in new spending and tax breaks targeted toward climate change, clean energy, training, and workforce development, the development of clean infrastructure, and more. It puts the U.S. on a path to 40% emissions reduction by 2030 with these desired impacts: Lower energy costs Increased energy security Investments in decarbonizing all sectors Focused investments in disadvantaged communities Support for resilient rural communities Additionally, the legislation act offers businesses and entrepreneurs unprecedented opportunities but identifying these opportunities and navigating how to capitalize on them can be daunting. To help small- and medium-sized businesses understand the act, SBN Detroit held a virtual event on May 18 featuring Joel Howrani Heeres, director, Public Sector Consultants; Jerry Davis, professor, Ross School of Business; Dan Radomski, executive director, Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Tech University, and Kimberly Hill Knott, president and CEO, Future Insight Consulting. Each speaker presented according to their areas of expertise, followed by a Q & A. We’ve shared some of the speakers’ points below. You can view the full event here. A significant portion of IRA rebates goes to homeowners, creating an opportunity for contractors to provide energy audits, electrification upgrades, and more. The funds allow for roughly 5,000 houses to take advantage of rebates. – Howrani There are five components involved in creating an enterprise – capital, labor, organization, supply, and distribution. The IRA creates opportunities within each of these components. – Davis When it comes to cleantech funding, it’s important to understand what stage of development you are in and how that applies to different funding opportunities. Generally, funding comes in when technologies are mature and ready for deployment. But there are different opportunities within the different stages. – Radomski As we transition to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) there will be more investments in infrastructure, and the money will flow through state agencies and departments. – Radomski The key to being e successful with IRA funding is collaboration. Addressing climate change is multifaceted. For example, residential electrification dollars are coming. but many houses are not necessarily ready to replace fossil fuel sources with electricity. So, there is an opportunity to partner with community action agencies that manage funds for home repair to get homeowners ready. For example, the community action agency essentially does intake and prep, and a private contractor does the electrification work to use the rebates. – Howrani There are new opportunities up and down the supply chain from technicians to engineers to manufacturing. This is going to take an effort in workforce development by universities, community colleges, and manufacturers themselves. We need education in all of these areas which will lead to jobs and wealth creation. – Radomski My students surveyed local small businesses regarding their priorities around green energy. The overwhelming response was reliability. For these businesses, extended power outages could be catastrophic. This presents an opportunity – how do we solve this? – Davis Understanding that the IRA is not easily interpreted, I had my students translate parts of it into easy-to-understand How to Guides and also sample business models which can be found at Greenbiztransition.com View the full presentation and Q&A here. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on sustainable business practices in and around Detroit.
Sustainability Progress in Oakland County
Erin Quetell became Oakland County’s first chief environmental sustainability officer in 2021 after working for four years as the City of Ferndale’s environmental sustainability planner. Quetell received a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Grand Valley State University and a master’s degree in Public Administration in Environmental Science and Policy from Columbia University in New York. Before her time in Ferndale and Oakland County, Quetell worked in the private and nonprofit sectors with a focus on environmental issues through service in the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program, at the Greening of Detroit, and through consulting at OHM Advisors. She is a graduate of the 2020 Michigan Women’s Municipal Leadership program and Leadership Oakland Class XXIX. She served as previous co-chair for the Great Lakes Climate Adaptation Network, and is a current board member for the nonprofits Make Food Not Waste and the Clinton River Watershed Council. SBN Detroit spoke with Quetell about her work, sustainability priorities, and how businesses in the county can be involved. Q: In 2021, you stepped into the role of Oakland County’s first sustainability officer. Now, two years later, what impact do you think you’ve been able to make? A: Well, it’s not just me. I do have a small team, and what I’m most proud of is we conducted a competitive bidding process and negotiated a renewable energy purchase so that we now have a third-party purchase agreement. Seventy percent of all electrical needs for Oakland County facilities will be from solar, which helps us toward our climate goals and helps demonstrate the priority of our decarbonization goals. Additionally, we have finalized an environmental sustainability plan for the county campus and facilities which includes a review of all the county’s buildings to best determine energy and water efficiency improvements, accessibility, carbon reduction, and other sustainability-related upgrades. Also notable, I think, is the work we are doing on the tri-county electric vehicle planning project. Residents and businesses are definitely interested in electrification, and we want to be able to offer people in our 62 cities, villages, and townships the resources they need to learn more. To that end, we developed an EV toolkit that’s a great resource for anyone interested in EV deployment. Q: What are your top priorities for the county when it comes to sustainability? A: We’ve been working to have a very clear understanding of what we need to do as an entire county in response to the climate crisis. Being fairly new in this role, I’ve been spending time meeting with groups and organizations to understand all local activity and in turn working to align with the MI Healthy Climate Plan with these greater efforts to maximize impact. As I mentioned, electrification is a priority along with the alternative fuel corridors throughout Oakland County. With funding in the pipeline, we are identifying ways and partners to expand these alternative fuel corridors to include right of ways such as Grand River and Woodward and also facilitate greater community engagement around future vehicle electrification in general. Another priority is continuing the county’s energy efficiency programming – such as weatherization programs – and leveraging opportunities to reduce the energy burden for residents and businesses. We have underrepresented communities in Oakland County that have been left out, and we need to provide help and resources to everyone going forward. Q: I read that Oakland County became part of a class of 16 communities across the country that will be working to get the county LEED-certified by late 2023. What impact will this have on the county, stakeholders, residents, and businesses? A: You can’t manage what you don’t measure and LEED certification for counties is a really good basis for sustainability metrics. LEED for cities sets a framework to collect data. The outcome of these metrics can then be utilized as a resource for businesses in the county in their acquisition and retention of talent – showing that it’s a good place to live and work. Q: How do you work with businesses in the county to become more sustainable or equitable? A: One piece of the puzzle is our procurement practices. We are being very intentional in diversifying contractors and suppliers for county opportunities. Back to the LEED Certification, we can share out stronger metrics and qualifications when we bid out projects. Government contracts can be overwhelming for smaller companies, and this information will make things clearer so we can ultimately work with a broader range of companies in the county. Outwardly facing, we have a large education push, specifically through our Oakland80 program, community navigators, and other workforce development programs. As electrification becomes more prevalent, people need additional and new training to support that transition. We are working to make sure our future workforce is nimble and has the skills in demand. So far, much of my work has been networking and discussion. I have been in many conversations with various businesses related to mobility solutions such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure, batteries, and other sustainability practices. I work closely with our economic development team to start integrating more sustainability opportunities and show how the county is supportive and pushing for greater sustainability. There is still much to be done. Q: What impact do you think Southeast Michigan businesses have on sustainability within the county and as it pertains to your role? A: I think businesses have a lot more potential to move the needle than many people realize. One of the things we are talking about is how can we develop more sustainability networks and resources and how can we work collaboratively toward our climate goals. Businesses are becoming vested, and we are starting to see more collaboration, understanding, and pressure to address greater ESG efforts. There is so much opportunity here – we have not scratched the surface, and I look forward to the potential outcomes. Q: What advice would you give businesses in Oakland County if they are looking to work together toward sustainable practices? A: I think starting with evaluating where you are today is the best way
