Contact: Noah Barnes, Electrification Coalition
noah@electrification.org, (202) 461-2371
RENO—Today, regional leaders, industry experts, and community stakeholders gathered at the Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce to spotlight the transformative impact of the electric vehicle (EV) industry on Northern Nevada’s economy. The event, titled “Powering Prosperity: EVs are Driving Northern Nevada’s Economic & Job Boom,” highlighted the region’s emergence as a national hub for EV innovation, manufacturing, and workforce development.
The event featured remarks from prominent local and industry leaders, including Sparks Mayor Ed Lawson, Fernley Mayor Neal McIntyre, Panasonic Energy’s Nicole Cook, and Ann Silver, CEO of the Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce. Speakers emphasized the region’s strategic role in the EV supply chain and the economic opportunities it brings to Nevada communities.
“This isn’t just about electrifying transportation, it’s about securing America’s future,” said Mayor Lawson. “It’s about empowering Northern Nevada. It’s about creating opportunity, security, and pride for our families and businesses.”
“These vehicles, and everything that comes with them, have the potential to become the backbone of our local economy,” said Mayor McIntyre. “They can create new jobs, spark innovation, and most importantly, keep more of our hard-earned dollars right here in our community.”
With over $15.6 billion in private investment and more than 13,500 jobs created across the EV supply chain, Nevada is rapidly becoming the epicenter of America’s domestic EV industry, thanks in part to the region’s unique access to critical minerals, including North America’s largest active lithium deposit.
Attendees also heard from representatives of the City of Reno, Truckee Meadows Community College, the Nevada Battery Coalition, the University of Nevada, Reno, and the Electrification Coalition, all of whom underscored the importance of workforce training, innovation, and economic and national security.
The event also featured an EV showcase, including a Rivian cargo van, R1T truck, and Chevrolet Blazer police vehicle.
As the U.S. works to strengthen its domestic supply chains and remain competitive in the global auto market, Northern Nevada stands out as a model for how regional collaboration and investment can drive economic development.
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About the Electrification Coalition: The Electrification Coalition is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that promotes policies and actions to facilitate the widespread adoption of plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) on a mass scale to overcome the economic, public health and national security challenges that stem from America’s dependence on oil. ElectrificationCoalition.org