IVEDC Economic & Energy Summit 2025

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

The 2025 IVEDC Economic and Energy Summit brought together public officials, industry leaders, investors, and workforce development partners to advance strategies for regional growth and energy transformation in Imperial Valley. Held over two days at Imperial Valley College, the Summit focused on project finance, clean energy innovation, workforce readiness, and critical minerals development positioning the region at the forefront of California’s clean energy future.

Leaders from IVEDC, Imperial County, and Imperial Valley College set the stage with a call to action for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development.

Day 1 Highlights:

Opening speakers emphasized regional collaboration and economic potential.
Keynotes provided updates on Lithium Valley and clean energy investment.
Panels covered project finance, geothermal innovation, transmission upgrades, and permitting reforms.
Critical minerals like manganese and zinc were discussed as essential to national energy strategy.
The day ended with a moderator roundtable and networking reception hosted by ORMAT.

Day 2 Highlights:

Funding strategies like AHEAD grants and tax increment financing were explored.
“Jobs First” focused on workforce needs in clean energy, AgTech, and logistics.
The Empower panel emphasized community financial health, training, and labor partnerships.
The Summit concluded with a call to align workforce, policy, and capital for sustainable growth.