By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
SEMA Senior Director of State Government Affairs and Grassroots Christian Robinson (center right) speaks during a panel at the Virginia Energy Summit.
In late July, SEMA Senior Director of State Government Affairs and Grassroots Christian Robinson participated in a panel at the Virginia Energy Summit in Virginia Beach. The panel, titled "Business Energy Consumers: Balancing Affordability, Sustainability and Competitiveness," addressed the need to balance cost-effective energy solutions with sustainability initiatives, while maintaining a competitive edge in the marketplace.
David Holt, president of the Consumer Energy Alliance, moderated the panel, which featured panelists from various industries. Robinson joined Patrick Edwards, owner of Norfolk-Virginia Beach restaurant chain The Stockpot, and Joseph S. Casper, Sr. vice president for government and regulatory affairs at the Brick Industry Association, to discuss the critical challenges and opportunities facing business energy consumers.
During the discussion, Robinson highlighted the unique energy needs of the specialty-equipment industry and the harmful impact electric vehicle (EV) mandates would have. He emphasized the importance of policies that promote environmental responsibility without compromising the economic viability of small businesses.
Earlier this summer, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that the Commonwealth would not adopt California's 2035 ban on selling new gas- and diesel-powered motor vehicles. Virginia lawmakers passed a law in 2021 under Youngkin's predecessor tying the state to California's emissions standards, which includes California's 100% EV mandate by 2035.
"At SEMA, we are committed to ensuring that our members can thrive in a sustainable future without compromising affordability or competitiveness," Robinson said. "It's crucial that we work together with policymakers, industry leaders and consumers to develop energy strategies that benefit all stakeholders."
Robinson's participation in the panel exemplifies SEMA's proactive approach to addressing industry challenges and fostering a sustainable future for its members.
For more information on SEMA's initiatives and advocacy efforts, visit SEMA's website.