Expansion Management

Let's Not Import Foreign-Made Solar Panels Says Dow Corning's CEO

Nov. 20, 2010

Dr. Stephanie A. Burns, CEO of Down Corning Corp. is convinced that green manufacturing jobs can help the U.S. economy recover.

"I believe that with the right mix of private investment, government support, and entrepreneurial spirit, we can revitalize the heart of our nation's economy -- our manufacturing sector," Burns said last month at the 2010 International District Export Council Conference.

And there is no time to waste.

"We need to make this commitment now, or the net long-term effect will be the export of jobs today and the import of foreign-made solar panels tomorrow."

Why is the U.S. putting up barriers to companies that want to manufacture in the U.S. she wonders. Other nations have "adopted aggressive policies to support the growth of their renewable-energy manufacturing base" she explains.

The U.S. need to put incentives into place.

She specifically addressed the issue of solar power growth. "There is an immediate need for strategic, short-term, demand-side incentives that will pave the way for solar power growth, jobs and an export market in the United States."

And she's not afraid to let the government know what they should be doing.

The U.S. must:

*Establish legislative and regulatory policies to encourage rapid growth of a viable renewable energy industry and encourage consumer adoption

*Increase investments in research and development to support innovation in solar energy technologies

*Invest in renewable energy-related education, training and job creation

*Lead by example in the implementation of clean technologies

About the Author

Adrienne Selko Blog | Senior Editor

Focus: Expansion Management & the Biotech & Life Sciences Industries

Email: [email protected]

Follow Adrienne on Twitter: @ASelkoIW

Call: 216-931-9235

Senior Editor Adrienne Selko manages IndustryWeek’s Expansion Management, delivering ideas and information about how successful manufacturers leverage location to gain competitive advantage. She explores the strategies behind why companies located their headquarters, research institutes, factories, warehouse and distribution centers and other facilities where they did, and how they benefit from the decision.

Adrienne is also the editorial coordinator of the IndustryWeek Expansion Management Roundtable events, which unites economic development professionals to network and discuss the latest trends in site location.

As well, Adrienne tells the stories of successful companies in the biotechnology and life sciences industries.

In the past, Adrienne has managed IndustryWeek’s award-winning website, overseeing eNewletters, webinars, and contributed content. Before joining the staff, Adrienne was managing editor of corporate publications at a large regional financial institution. She also ran a public relations and marketing company that published a best-selling healthcare book.

Adrienne received a bachelor’s of business administration from the University of Michigan and is especially interested in wellness and natural health.