Energy

Reliable, affordable, and diversified energy is critical to manufacturing and California’s ability to compete in the global marketplace. California manufacturers are the leaders in developing and producing clean energy technologies that can assist the state in meeting its future efficiency goals. 

 

Manufacturing in the News: October 2025

Read CMTA's round-up of manufacturing-related news from October 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.   Latest Industry News   Lockheed...

Manufacturing in the News: June 2025

Read CMTA's round-up of manufacturing-related news from June 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.   Latest Industry News   New Fire...

Schneider Electric Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Schneider Electric to the organization today. Schneider Electric is a global industrial technology leader and a powerhouse of energy distribution, industrial...

Leading Developer in Energy Storage Solutions Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Convergent Energy and Power (Convergent) to the organization today. Convergent is a leading provider of energy storage solutions in North America. The...

Nexamp Solar Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new associate member, Nexamp Solar, to the organization today. “I am honored to welcome our newest associate member to CMTA,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of...

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) is proud to welcome two new associate members, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and Acena Consulting to the association. Both companies bring significant expertise that...

Press Release

Manufacturing in the News: October 2025

Manufacturing in the News: October 2025

Read CMTA’s round-up of manufacturing-related news from October 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.

 

Latest Industry News

 

Lockheed Martin’s X-59 Makes Historic First Flight in California

 

CMTA board member company Lockheed Martin announced that the X‑59, an experimental supersonic aircraft developed by NASA and Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility, completed its maiden flight at Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California. This flight marked a major step in transitioning from ground testing to airborne operations. The mission aims to advance quiet-supersonic technology and pave the way for overland supersonic commercial flight.

Read more from Reuters

 

CalPortland’s Oro Grande and Mojave Plants Honored with Award

 

CMTA board member company CalPortland was recognized with the American Cement Association’s 2025 Chairman’s Safety Performance Award at two of their California plantsin Oro Grande and Mojave. This accolade honors cement plants nationwide that demonstrate exceptional safety performance, ranking among the top 10% based on low incident rates of accidents and injuries.

Read more from CalPortland

 

SK Pharmteco Invests $6.1 Million in California Manufacturing Facility

 

SK Pharmteco announced a $6.1 million investment to expand its Rancho Cordova, California, facility with new lab and kilo-scale capabilities. This expansion aims to meet the rising demand for U.S.-based peptide development and manufacturing. The new lab is scheduled to come online in January 2026, with the kilo-scale facility expected in the second half of 2026.

Read more from BioPharm International

 

Battery‑Technology Company Sparkz Moves to Sacramento

 

Sparkz announced it is relocating its headquarters to Sacramento while planning large‑scale manufacturing in the area. The move aims to leverage the region’s workforce and infrastructure as the company expands its production of advanced energy‑storage technology.

Read more from Sacramento Business Journal

 

Manufacturing Industry Policy

 

California Extends Clean Energy Incentives to Boost Manufacturing

Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 86, authored by Senator Jerry McNerney, extending California’s clean energy tax incentive program through 2028. The legislation expands eligibility to include fusion energy technologies, aiming to bolster green manufacturing and job creation.

Read more from the Office of Senator McNerney

 

Governor Newsom Vetoes Bill Targeting PFAS

Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed legislation that would have phased out PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in nonstick cookware, food packaging, cleaning products, and items for infants and children. He cited concerns about the potential impact on the availability of affordable cooking products.

Read more from the LA Times

 

Governor Newsom Invests $30 Million in Apprenticeships

 

Governor Gavin Newsom announced $30 million in awards benefiting 70 apprenticeship programs and more than 11,000 apprentices, earning an average of $50.29 per hour, in high-demand sectors such as advanced manufacturing, health care, and education.

Read more from the Office of Governor Newsom

CMTA Announces 100% Success Against Breaker Bills in 2025 Legislative Session

CMTA Announces 100% Success Against Breaker Bills in 2025 Legislative Session

Sacramento, Calif. (September 16, 2025) – Today, the California Manufacturers & Technology Association(CMTA) announced that it secured a 100% success rate on stopping all priority “Breaker” bills during the 2025 legislative session. CMTA also successfully advanced one critical “Maker” bill.

Breaker” bills are proposals that threaten California’s manufacturing competitiveness by adding new costs, restrictions, or litigation threats that negatively impact the industry and the Californians it employs.

Breaker Bills: Defeated Threats to California Manufacturers

AB 914 (Garcia): Added new fees and regulations, increasing costs for manufacturers.
Would have authorized California Air Resources Board (CARB) to impose new fees and rules on facilities and vehicles, increasing costs across the supply chain.

AB 1018 (Bauer-Kahan): Mandated costly new audits and liability risks.
Would have required costly audits, disclosures, and oversight on automated systems, creating compliance risks for manufacturers using or developing new technologies.

AB 1331 (Elhawary): Limited workplace safety and compliance monitoring.
Would have prohibited employers from using surveillance tools in off-duty areas, complicating compliance and safety efforts.

SB 45 (Padilla): Increased packaging compliance costs.
Would have required tethered caps on beverage containers by 2027 and removed curbside recycling incentives.

SB 222 (Wiener): Drove up energy costs.
Would have allowed new lawsuits against energy companies, leading to gas price hikes of 63% and electricity increases of 55%, costing families $6,200 more annually.

SB 318 (Becker): Expanded costly air district requirements.
Would have broadened permitting obligations for facilities, slowing innovation and raising compliance costs.

SB 684 (Menjivar) & AB 1243 (Addis): Retroactive energy taxes.
Would have required energy producers to pay retroactive fees for decades of emissions, raising costs across California’s economy.

“This year, manufacturers proved once again that when we speak with a united voice, we can both grow opportunities and stop harmful policies that drive jobs and businesses out of California,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA.

CMTA also announced the successful passage of one “Maker” bill. “Maker” bills are legislative proposals that strengthen California’s ability to manufacture goods, expanding opportunities for innovation, investment, and good-paying jobs.

Maker Bills: Building California’s Manufacturing Future

SB 86 (McNerney): Sales and Use Tax Exclusion – Lowers upfront costs for manufacturers.
Extends the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority sales and use tax exclusion program through 2028 and expands eligibility to include fusion energy projects. This keeps California competitive for advanced manufacturing investment and ensures communities and workers benefit.
Status: Passed, headed to the Governor’s desk.

SB 587 (Grayson): Manufacturing Tax Credit – Supports growth and expansion.
Provides a new personal income tax credit for manufacturers starting in 2026, offsetting costs and incentivizing expansion in California.
Status: On hold until next year.

“By securing an important Maker bill and defeating every Breaker bill, CMTA protected California’s competitiveness and ensured manufacturers can continue to grow and thrive in our state,” continued Hastings.

CMTA will continue working with lawmakers, regulators, and industry partners to ensure California remains a state where manufacturers can thrive. For inquiries, please contact CMTA Vice President of Communications, Nina Fisher, at nfisher@cmta.net.

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About CMTA
The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state.

Manufacturing in the News: June 2025

Manufacturing in the News: June 2025

Read CMTA’s round-up of manufacturing-related news from June 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.

 

Latest Industry News

 

New Fire Retardant Production Facility Opens in Northern California

 

Perimeter Solutions, a company known for making fire retardant, opened a state-of-the-art production facility at McClellan Park in Northern California. Their fire retardant is often deployed from aircraft during wildfires. This new plant signals a focus on Northern California’s wildfire preparedness and response.

Read more from KCRA

 

Northrop Grumman to Expand Use of NVIDIA AI Technology for Space Solutions

 

CMTA board member company Northrop Grumman announced an expanded use of NVIDIA technology to advance spacecraft operations. The goal is to apply NVIDIA’s advanced AI tech for new and more complex missions, with quicker planning and lower operating costs. NVIDIA is based in Santa Clara, CA.

Read more from Northrop Grumman

 

CMTA Members Recognized by Newsweek as “America’s Greenest Companies”

 

Two CMTA member companies headquartered in California were recognized in Newsweek’s “America’s Greenest Companies” list for 2025. Congratulations to Amgen and The Clorox Company! Newsweek partners with Plant-A Insights and GIST Impact to determine and highlight U.S. companies committed to reducing their environmental impact in key areas like greenhouse gas emissions, water management, and waste reduction.

Read more from Newsweek

 

IBM Develops AI-Powered Tool to Identify PFAS

 

IBM, a company headquartered in San Francisco, announced the development and implementation of an AI-powered PFAS screening tool. The tool assists in identifying and eliminating fluorochemicals from research operations, according to a news release from IBM. While the screener cannot guarantee a product is PFAS-free, it reduces errors and suggests viable alternatives for “forever chemicals” if available.

Read more from IBM Research

 

Yuba College’s Manufacturing Team Receives National Recognition

A three-student manufacturing team from Yuba College in Marysville, CA made it to the top four in the nation in the Project MFG Advanced Manufacturing Competition. This prestigious tournament places students in real-world manufacturing work situations, highlighting their skills as the next generation of American manufacturers.

Read more from Lake County News

 

Manufacturing Industry Policy

 

Supreme Court Rules Fuel Producers Can Legally Challenge California Emission Standards

 

In a 7-2 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a group of fuel producers—including Valero Energy subsidiary, Diamond Alternative Energy, and other fuel industry trade groups—can move ahead with a legal challenge to California’s vehicle emissions standards. The lawsuit centers on a 2022 Environmental Protection Agency waiver.

Read more from CNN

 

Major CEQA Reform Included in State Budget

 

California State Capitol and Flag

On June 30, Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation promising changes to the 1970 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), with many housing advocates in support. The reforms will also exempt advanced manufacturing facilities in industrial areas, which some legislators hope will spur more electronics and semiconductor production throughout the state.

Read more from KQED

Schneider Electric Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Schneider Electric to the organization today.

Schneider Electric is a global industrial technology leader and a powerhouse of energy distribution, industrial optimization, and digitalization. The company works to create impact by empowering all to make the most of energy and resources. Schneider Electric transforms energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure with digital solutions and empowers customers in states like California to measure, deliver, and save energy.

“I’m very excited to have Schneider Electric join CMTA as a member,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA. “Energy efficiency and sustainability are critical for the future of manufacturing and technology, and Schneider Electric’s leadership on these fronts reflects the future forward goals we work toward.”

“Schneider Electric develops and deploys innovative solutions critical to electrification, digitalization, and industrial optimization across all sectors of the economy,” said Michele Hix, Vice President of Strategic Customers at Schneider Electric North America. “Our technological expertise and commitment to next-generation manufacturing, coupled with CMTA’s advocacy for pro-growth policies, will help strengthen our ability to drive sustainable innovation in California.”

Schneider Electric has had a presence in the U.S. for more than 135 years and is a vital part of California’s efforts to lead the charge toward a more sustainable future. The company employs more than 900 team members across the state in Pleasanton, Menlo Park, Chino, Lake Forest, and Costa Mesa. The company’s government and community partnerships extend from installing a battery energy storage system at Marine Corps Air Station in Miramar to helping Modesto City Schools pioneer sustainability in education through installing charging infrastructure.

The company was recently ranked as one of Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work 2025, and the company is proud to be recognized as a 2025 Gold Military Friendly® employer.

In 2024, TIME magazine ranked Schneider Electric as the world’s most sustainable company.

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $2,500 higher than other non-farm employers in the state.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider’s purpose is to create impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency.

We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitalization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers.

We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a sustainable future for all.

Leading Developer in Energy Storage Solutions Joins CMTA

Leading Developer in Energy Storage Solutions Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif.The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Convergent Energy and Power (Convergent) to the organization today.

Convergent is a leading provider of energy storage solutions in North America. The organization has more than a decade of experience financing and managing the energy storage development cycle, which helps customers reduce electricity costs and increase reliability. The company’s commercial, industrial, and utility-scale assets can yield seven-figure savings while advancing the clean energy transition. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Convergent to CMTA’s membership. Their team brings valuable expertise that will help California’s manufacturers navigate the evolving energy landscape,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA. “Reliable and cost-effective energy solutions are critical for maintaining a strong and competitive manufacturing sector, and Convergent’s commitment to innovation aligns with CMTA’s mission to support sustainable and resilient manufacturing in our state.”

Energy storage is crucial for a more flexible and resilient grid. It allows electrons to be stored during times of low demand and dispatched during times of high demand. More storage on the grid means lower grid peaks, and results in less power needed overall.

“The power grid is the single most expensive thing America has ever built, and it is not prepared to meet this moment of crisis, as defined by increasing electrification, urbanization, and extreme weather events,” said Johannes Ritterhausen, CEO of Convergent. “Energy storage, especially when paired with solar, is the answer to many of today’s challenges.”

Convergent has continually delivered many industry “firsts,” consistently proving that energy storage will contribute meaningfully to a clean energy future.

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $2,500 higher than other non-farm employers in the state.

About Convergent Energy and Power

Convergent Energy and Power (Convergent) is a leading provider of energy storage solutions in North America. Convergent has over a decade of experience financing and managing all aspects of the energy storage development cycle to help customers reduce electricity costs and increase reliability. The company’s commercial, industrial, and utility-scale assets can yield seven-figure savings while advancing the clean energy transition. Convergent’s proprietary asset management platform, PEAK IQ® leverages machine learning and deep market knowledge to optimize asset performance and maximize value. Convergent has over $1bn invested in or committed to assets in operation or under development across North America.

PG&E CEO Announced as Keynote Speaker at CMTA’s Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting: Manufacturing Minute

PG&E CEO Announced as Keynote Speaker at CMTA’s Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting: Manufacturing Minute

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights key developments shaping the future of manufacturing and innovation. 

Watch the latest Manufacturing Minute episode in the video player above. 

 

CEO of PG&E Announced as CMTA Annual Meeting Keynote Speaker

 

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association is proud to welcome Patti Poppe, CEO of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), as the keynote speaker for the CMTA Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting. With extensive leadership experience at CMS Energy, DTE Energy, and General Motors, Patti brings invaluable insights into the evolving energy landscape. Beyond her role at PG&E, she serves on multiple industry boards, shaping the future of energy and infrastructure. 

This two-day event, taking place March 26-27, 2025, at the Parker Palm Springs, will bring together CMTA members, legislators, and business leaders to discuss the state of manufacturing in California. Patti will share her expertise on energy transformation and its impact on the industry, alongside other distinguished speakers addressing key trends and innovations shaping the sector. 

 

Stratolaunch’s $24.7M Hypersonic Flight Agreement 

 

Photo Courtesy of Stratolaunch

In another major aerospace industry development, CMTA member Stratolaunch has been awarded a $24.7 million competitive agreement by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to support national defense through a cutting-edge hypersonic flight mission.  

This funding will enable modifications to Stratolaunch’s Spirit of Mojave 747 launch platform, expanding the reach of its reusable Talon-A hypersonic vehicle to global locations. Set for the fourth quarter of 2025, the test mission will enhance the United States’ ability to develop and refine missile defense systems against emerging hypersonic threats. Stratolaunch’s advancements in hypersonic technology reinforce its position as a leader in national security innovation.

 

ZM Trucks Announces First U.S. Manufacturing Plant 

 

Photo courtesy of ZM Trucks

Rounding out this week’s news, ZM Trucks, North America’s newest zero-emissions commercial truck brand, has announced the establishment of its first North American manufacturing plant in Fontana, California.  

This milestone also marks the relocation of its regional headquarters to the 210,000-square-foot facility, further cementing its commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. The new plant will serve as the foundation for ZM Trucks’ U.S. operations, producing electric commercial trucks, terminal tractors, and airport ground service equipment. With production set to begin in the first half of 2025, ZM Trucks is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing clean energy transportation across the country. 

 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media. 

Nexamp Solar Joins CMTA

Nexamp Solar Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif.The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new associate member, Nexamp Solar, to the organization today.

“I am honored to welcome our newest associate member to CMTA,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “Nexamp provides a much-needed resource for our industry with onsite solar and energy storage solutions for companies across the country.”

Nexamp Solar develops, owns and operates solar farms and onsite generation and storage for commercial entities. Founded in 2007 by two U.S. Army veterans, Nexamp aims to build the future of energy to be clean, simple and accessible. Today, the company is a national leader in the clean energy space, offering storage and energy solutions for public and commercial use.

Nexamp owns and operates all its solar and storage projects and manages every stage of the process, including development, design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance, and energy sales.

“Nexamp is thrilled to join the CMTA to bring our onsite solar energy and battery storage solutions to more businesses across California,” said Brion Fitzpatrick, Vice President, Business Development of Nexamp. “With energy costs soaring and reliability challenges on the rise, Nexamp is ready to help California companies take control of their energy future. As the 2024 leader in distributed generation development and asset ownership nationwide, we’re excited to show CMTA members how we can deliver substantial savings while supporting their sustainability goals.”

As a nationwide company, Nexamp’s California team is ready to meet with CMTA members to discuss solutions for lowering energy costs, supporting reliability, and lowering our carbon footprint.

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. 

About Nexamp Solar
Nexamp is a developer, owner and operator of solar energy and energy storage assets. We provide onsite solar and energy storage solutions to utilities and commercial entities across the US. We develop onsite energy solutions to lower your annual energy costs and provide power where it is needed the most, all while meeting your sustainability goals. In 2023, WoodMac ranked Nexamp ‘The largest Community Solar developer and owner in the US’, with millions of acres of solar farms across the country providing solar energy to over 80,000 consumers and Fortune 500 companies. Nexamp also specializes in onsite generation and energy storage where we install on rooftops and carports for commercial and industrial clients. Learn more at Nexamp.com.

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as Headquarters for National Semiconductor Technology Center

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as Headquarters for National Semiconductor Technology Center

This week’s Manufacturing Minute spotlights exciting advancements in California’s manufacturing landscape. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

Watch the latest Manufacturing Minute episode in the video player above. 

 

California Selected as Headquarters for the National Semiconductor Technology Center

 

First, California has been chosen as the headquarters for the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), with the Design and Collaboration Facility (DCF) set to be located in Sunnyvale. Announced by the U.S. Department of Commerce and Natcast, the DCF will drive over $1 billion in research funding and create more than 200 jobs over the next decade. The facility will serve as a hub for advanced semiconductor research, including chip design, electronic design automation, and hardware security, fostering collaboration between industry leaders, academia, and government. This development solidifies California’s role as a vital component in the future of semiconductor innovation and workforce development.

 

 Gallo Glass Awarded $5 Million for Hybrid Glass Furnace

 

Photo courtesy of Gallo Glass

In another significant development, CMTA member company Gallo Glass has secured $5 million in state funding for the construction of a hybrid glass furnace at its Modesto plant—the largest glass container production facility in the U.S. The new furnace, supported by both state and federal funding, will enable Gallo to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by shifting from 90% reliance on natural gas to 80% electricity. This project is a significant step toward decarbonizing the U.S. glass industry, aligning with California’s aggressive goals for energy efficiency and sustainability. Gallo plans to have the hybrid furnace operational by 2028, marking a new chapter in environmentally friendly manufacturing. 

 

 Sparkz, A Lithium Battery Manufacturer, Opens in Sacramento

 

Photo courtesy of KCRA 3

Finally, Sparkz, a leader in lithium battery production, has opened a new state-of-the-art facility in Sacramento. This milestone was celebrated by federal and state leaders and represents a critical investment in California’s clean energy future. The Sparkz facility will focus on manufacturing lithium battery materials and cells essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, generating hundreds of local jobs. By onshoring lithium battery production, Sparkz is not only driving innovation in the energy sector but also contributing to California’s leadership in the clean energy transition. 

 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media. 

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) is proud to welcome two new associate members, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and Acena Consulting to the association. Both companies bring significant expertise that will benefit CMTA’s mission of supporting and strengthening California’s manufacturing industry.

“We are thrilled to welcome these two companies as new associate members,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “Acena Consulting’s expertise in tax strategy and PG&E’s energy solutions will provide valuable resources for our members, helping them meet challenges and drive innovation in California’s manufacturing industry.”

PG&E provides natural gas and electric services across Northern and Central California, supporting the energy needs of more than 16 million people. The utility has over 105,000 circuit miles of electric distribution lines and 42,141 miles of natural gas distribution pipelines.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with CMTA as we look to engage with and support our manufacturing and technology customers,” said Aaron Johnson, Senior Vice President at PG&E. “These companies are the foundation of California’s economic engine, and we are honored to help them thrive.”

Acena Consulting is a premier tax consultancy that specializes in areas such as the R&D Tax Credit and Cost Segregation, helping businesses maximize financial opportunities. The company is committed to supporting the manufacturing industry and contributing to the economic vitality of California through their work.

“We are excited to join CMTA and contribute to their mission of supporting and growing California’s vibrant manufacturing sector,” said Nick Pyzow, Director at Acena Consulting. “We believe our expertise will be a valuable resource for CMTA members looking to optimize their financial performance.”

By bringing PG&E’s energy solutions and Acena’s tax consulting expertise into the fold, CMTA members will have access to critical resources that will help them streamline operations, stay competitive, and push the boundaries of innovation in California’s manufacturing sector.

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.

About Acena Consulting

Acena Consulting is a tax consultancy firm specializing in helping businesses maximize tax deductions and leverage financial opportunities. Their services include R&D Tax Credit Support and Cost Segregation. For more information, visit Acena’s website.

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as First State for Hydrogen Energy Hub Federal Funding

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as First State for Hydrogen Energy Hub Federal Funding

This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings three exciting updates in the world of manufacturing and technology. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. 

Watch the latest episode in the video player above. 

 

California Picked as the First State to Receive Funds For a Hydrogen Hub 

 

A 2021 Toyota Prius that runs on a hydrogen fuel cell. | Photo Courtesy of David Zalubowski

California is set to become the first state to receive federal funds under a new program aimed at creating regional networks, or “hubs,” for hydrogen production. The U.S. Department of Energy announced that the California Hydrogen Hub will receive an initial $30 million for its planning and design phase, with up to $1.2 billion allocated for the project’s full implementation.  

This initiative is part of the Biden Administration’s broader agenda to combat climate change by promoting clean hydrogen as a key energy source for vehicles, manufacturing, and electricity generation. These hydrogen hubs, spanning 16 states, are expected to attract over $40 billion in private investment and create tens of thousands of well-paying jobs, contributing significantly to the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

 

Coolest Thing Made in California Contest

 

CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita, on CBS GoodDay Sacramento

Next, the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has been actively promoting its 2nd Annual “Coolest Thing Made in California” Contest, powered by JPMorganChase. CMTA has been on several TV stations, including KCRA 3, ABC10, CBS GoodDay Sacramento, and Fox 40. The contest, which opened for nominations on July 29, will close on August 8, followed by a popular vote from August 12-15.  

This exciting competition showcases the innovative spirit of California’s manufacturing sector, culminating in the announcement of the winner on October 18 at the CMTA’s MakingCA Conference. The contest aims to highlight and celebrate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of California manufacturers, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for the industry’s contributions to the state’s economy.  

💡To learn more about CMTA’s Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, click here. 

 

Developing New Aerospace Advancements in Kern County  

 

Photo Courtesy of NASA | Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center

Lastly, significant legislative progress has been made with the inclusion of an amendment proposed by California Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) in the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2024.  

This amendment authorizes the Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonics (MACH) Program at NASA, which is designed to enhance scientific research and support high-speed flight technologies. The MACH Program will be developed locally at NASA Armstrong and in East Kern County, bolstering America’s leadership in aerospace innovation.  

This development also aligns with the broader goals of the NASA Reauthorization Act, which allocates $25.2 billion to support initiatives such as the Artemis Program and Moon to Mars Program, furthering human space exploration and strengthening the aerospace industry. CMTA member Stratolaunch, a key player in aerospace vehicle and technology development, will benefit from this legislative support, driving forward advancements in hypersonic research and development. 

 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media. 

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