RichmondBizSense.com
October 1, 2009

On the same day U.S. Sens. John Kerry and Barbara Boxer introduced their version of federal climate change legislation, a handful of local environmental advocates gathered for a midday powwow at the Qimonda plant in Sandston to support its passage.

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"Over 2,000 people lost their jobs here at Qimonda," said Besa. "They were highly skilled in working with silicone chips, the same raw material that goes into photovoltaics. If this passes, this will be a significant incentive for businesses to make an investment in facilities like this."

State Sen. Donald McEachin, who represents the district at the Qimonda plant, said that the bill would have a positive economic impact in Virginia.

"I still am in communication with those workers, they are still looking for a chance to keep their homes and families here," McEachin said.

One firm that might be seeking to hire some qualified workers in the years to come is Spotsylvania-based Energy & Environment Inc., an installer of solar and wind energy systems.

Charles Bush, head of the firm’s Richmond office, said the company is growing and is considering sites for a solar panel manufacturing facility, including one in Henrico.

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He said the federal legislation is key to creating more incentives that will drive demand.

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