The Imperial Valley Press should do a follow-up article on the Dec. 17 article “French solar panel maker opens San Diego factory.”
How come Imperial Valley did not get this plant?
Were we in the running? Did we pursue it? What do Imperial Valley Economic Development Corp., Imperial Irrigation District and the county have to say?
We have an economic development agreement with San Diego.
Will they look into helping us get some of those types of jobs over here? Renewable energy is a major focus.
But it is disheartening to see the first major factory go into San Diego.
The renewable projects (e.g. solar, wind, geothermal) create many temporary construction jobs, but relatively few permanent jobs.
The real job increases are in the manufacturing, distribution and servicing of the parts and equipment needed for the renewable energy projects, as well as the technological development.
The firm should be asked why it did not choose or look at Imperial Valley.
Is the combination of resistance from some farmers, environmentalists and Indian tribes too much? Do we lack the work force? Will this have an impact on how other manufacturers view us?
These questions need answering, but it appears no one is asking them.
How come Imperial Valley did not get this plant?
Were we in the running? Did we pursue it? What do Imperial Valley Economic Development Corp., Imperial Irrigation District and the county have to say?
We have an economic development agreement with San Diego.
Will they look into helping us get some of those types of jobs over here? Renewable energy is a major focus.
But it is disheartening to see the first major factory go into San Diego.
The renewable projects (e.g. solar, wind, geothermal) create many temporary construction jobs, but relatively few permanent jobs.
The real job increases are in the manufacturing, distribution and servicing of the parts and equipment needed for the renewable energy projects, as well as the technological development.
The firm should be asked why it did not choose or look at Imperial Valley.
Is the combination of resistance from some farmers, environmentalists and Indian tribes too much? Do we lack the work force? Will this have an impact on how other manufacturers view us?
These questions need answering, but it appears no one is asking them.
