The Southwest Green Energy Corridor
Prepared by The Southwest Green Industry Coalition February 2009
Southwest Green Industry Coalition
Cedar City, Utah
The Southwest Green Energy Corridor
Iron, Beaver and Millard Counties State of Utah
Southwest Green Industry Coalition 288 N. Westview Dr. Cedar City, Utah 84720-8212 Phone: 435 865-0050 Fax: 435 865-0054
Southwest Green Industry Coalition
Cedar City, Utah
Table of Contents What is the Southwest Green Energy Corridor?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Solar Power Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Geothermal Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Wind Power Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Biomass Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Business Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Labor Availability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Business Incentives State of Utah. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Business Incentives Local & Development Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Distribution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Project Fast Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
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Opportunities in the Southwest Green Energy Corridor “Energy is a critical component in sustaining Utah’s vibrant economic growth and preserving our unparalleled quality of life. With just the right blend of ambition, brainpower and diverse natural resources, Utah stands ready to lead the charge in energy efficiency, renewable and alternative energy development and new and innovative technologies.” - Governor Jon M. Huntsman, Jr.
What is the Southwest Green Energy Corridor? The Southwest Green Energy Corridor (SGEC) is a geographical location in Southern Utah that has a high concentration of natural and community resources that are advantageous for developments in the alternative energy development industry. This geographical location includes three primary southwestern counties, Iron, Beaver and Millard County. Even though these resources are relatively unknown to those outside of Utah, these three counties have historically already hosted projects that are producing significant amounts of energy and other products by means of alternative energy processes. Recently, other companies have discovered these resources and new projects have started to spring up in this region. We would like you to know more about this corridor and the options for your business. From the website of the Governor’s Utah Renewable Energy Zone Task Force: Governor Huntsman's Utah Renewable Energy Zone (UREZ) Task Force is made up of twenty members, appointed by Governor Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., representing utilities; renewable energy generation developers; environmental organizations; federal, state and local government representatives; and energy advocate representatives. This task force recognizes the Governor’s commitment to renewable energy resources as a component of Utah’s energy portfolio and clean energy policy. Dr. Dianne R. Nielson, Energy Advisor, and Dr. Rick Allis, Director of Utah Geological Survey, co-chair the UREZ Task Force. Utah is one of twelve states participating in the National Governors’ Association Center for Best Practices Securing a Clean Energy Future initiative, which is providing funding for the UREZ Task Force project. Purpose: To promote the development of renewable energy resources to meet the goal of 20% of Utah’s electricity by 2025. Specific objectives of the UREZ Task Force: Phase I * Identify Renewable Energy Zones (REZ). * Identify information or procedures to recognize areas with cumulative potential for larger
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amounts of renewable energy production. * Generate information to identify renewable energy resource areas within and outside REZ. * Support renewable energy development. Phase II * Identify policies or market mechanisms that would facilitate transmission planning and permitting for renewable energy projects. * Quantify cost-effective generation potential. * Identify necessary transmission to bring resources to market. In 2007, approximately 733,000 kWh of the more than 45 billion kWh of energy generated in this state was generated by renewable energy resources. The bulk of the renewable generation came from hydroelectric sources. With recent studies and surveys, the renewable resources in Utah could generate more power that the state is currently generating with nonrenewable sources.
SOLAR POWER RESOURCES - The “Renewable Energy Atlas of the West” estimated that Utah could generate 69 billion kWh in estimated solar electricity generation. The majority of property with the most suitable solar power generation or the ability to deliver 6,000 to 7,500 Whr/sq. per day is in the SGEC. With an average of 310 clear days per year and a high elevation with plentiful flat land, the SGEC has multiple benefits for those looking to set up either Concentrated Solar or Photovoltaics power methods. Recently, St. George, Utah installed a small solar farm and allowed local homeowners to have access to their own personal panel in that farm for $6,000 each. Those who buy into this project can receive tax credits from the state for their use of this power. There are three main resource-related criteria and one business-related criterion that make the area beneficial for solar power generation. The three main criteria are that the land has numerous clear days, the elevation is at the optimal height for quality generation and the land is, for the most part, very level. The business mode criterion that sets this area apart is that the main transmission line to Southern California runs right through the middle of this property and your location dictates where you will be able to load to when delivering your property. There is a substation set up for this purpose in Millard County where access can be negotiated, an eighty-eight mile transmission line is being strung in Beaver County and there are several groups looking at other methods to connect to the transmission line.
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Utah Solar Resource Map
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Solar Equipment Production - Another incredible opportunity in this corridor is the production of equipment for solar power generating companies. Port 15 Utah in Cedar City is a brand new, rail-served business industrial park that has been designed to handle the specific needs of companies that produce equipment for the solar industry. Currently it has the infrastructure in place to handle power, water, sewer, natural gas, fiber-optic lines and rail service. With a regional airport only a few miles away, all of your transportation needs can be fulfilled. However, the most important aspect of relocating or expanding to our area is realized when a company actually establishes its facility in this area. Besides the initial one time incentives from the local or state governments, there is an annual savings that is generated through lower cost of living, lower taxes, lower workman’s compensation costs, lower power costs and other lower costs. Most companies that have located to this area have seen a savings from 10% to 50% in long term benefits when daily operating costs are compared with neighboring states. Incentives, work force and other issues are discussed later in this document.
GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES - Currently there are three Geothermal Plants operating within the SGEC. In June 2006, a report by the Geothermal Energy Association for the U.S. Department of Energy stated this about our area’s geothermal existing resources: Utah is seeing a resurgence in development of its geothermal resources. Utah’s power production from geothermal energy is expected to triple by the end of 2007. PacifiCorp is planning to expand the 26 MW Blundell geothermal facility at Roosevelt Hot Springs by 11 MW and Amp Resources is developing a new power plant in the Cove FortSulphurdale KGRA with an anticipated capacity of 36.6 MW. In addition, a space heating project was recently completed at the Utah State Prison. It now supplies direct heat to 332,665 square feet of the facility.
After the above mentioned study was compiled, Raser Technologies of Provo, Utah, has built an additional geothermal facility in Beaver County. This facility was brought on line at the first of 2009 and is currently producing 64 MW for the city of Anaheim, Calfifornia. Working with the Department of Energy, the State of Utah determined that there were nine prime geothermal resources in the state. The top four areas are all located in the SGEC Corridor, and these four of these areas cover the largest geographic area with the most potential for energy production. Besides power production, many large greenhouses are producing flowers and vegetables for the commercial markets. Also, many residents in this community take advantage of ground source heat/cooling pumps to warm and cool their homes. The new Canyon View High School saves thousands of dollars a year by the use of ground source heating and cooling.
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Current Information on the geothermal uses as compiled by the Utah Geothermal Working Group - April 2005 Iron County Beryl Latitude: 37.8390 Longitude: 113.6870 Population: 75 Resource Temperature: 149°C (300.2°F) Number of Wells: 2 Typical Depth: 3748 m (12297 ft) Flow: 3785.3 L/min (1000 gpm) TDS: 4000 mg/L Current Use: N/A HDD: 6248°F Design Temperature: -2°F Remarks: IR-16 and IR-17. 2 wells. Located within 4 miles of Beryl. Newcastle Latitude: 37.6595 Longitude: 113.5628 Population: 200 Resource Temperature: 97.2°C (207°F) Number of Wells: 3 Typical Depth: 152 m (498.7 ft) Flow: 5700 L/min (1506 gpm) TDS: 1236 mg/L Current Use: Used for greenhouses. HDD: 6248°F Design Temperature: -2°F Remarks: IR-27, IR-26, and IR-24. 3 wells. Located within 0.5 miles of Newcastle. Recommended for future study. It has an estimated reservoir volume (km^3) = 6.1 and an estimated reservoir energy (10^18J) = 1.9. Reservoir temperature 140-170°C. Millard County Cove Fort / Sulphurdale Latitude: 38.5685 Longitude: 112.5668 Population: Rural Resource Temperature: 178°C (352.4°F) Number of Wells: 3
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Typical Depth: 1195 m (3920.6 ft) Flow: N/A TDS: 9405 mg/L Current Use: Used for electric power. HDD: 6743°F Design Temperature: 0°F Remarks: BE-02, MI-97, and MI-96. 3 wells. Located within 0.5 miles of Cove Fort. It is the second largest known geothermal system in Utah. It has an estimated reservoir volume(km^3) = 39 and an estimated reservoir energy (10^18J) = 16. Reservoir temperature 180-225°C. Meadow / Hatton Latitude: 38.8500 Longitude: 112.4900 Population: 250 Resource Temperature: 67°C (152.6°F) Number of Wells: 2 Typical Depth: 27 m (88.6 ft) Flow: 14.4 L/min (4 gpm) TDS: 4848 mg/L Current Use: N/A HDD: 6431°F Design Temperature: -2°F Remarks: MI-84 and MI-83. 1 spring and 1 well. Recommended for future study. Located within 1.5 miles of Meadow and 9 miles of Fillmore. Reservoir temperature 70-120°C. The above provided information has a some very interesting statements that have been proven by new technologies and make this area even more appropriate for alternative energy production. If you ask people who have spent years working with geothermal resources in the U.S., they will probably tell you that Utah has among the greatest potential for new development. According to the latest report from the Geothermal Task Force of Western Governor’s Association (WGA), it is estimated that Utah can economically develop 10 times its current capacity by 2015 – an additional 230 MW6 . If 230 MW were added in addition to the existing Blundell Plant, Utah could generate enough electricity to power over a quarter of amillion homes. Beyond 2015, the potential is far greater. Researchers and developers see opportunities far beyond electrons on the electric grid. They believe that small power units can provide distributed generation for emerging industries, such as alternative fuel production. They believe that direct heat from low-temperature resources could have widespread applicability for numerous businesses and communities in the state.
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Production of Geothermal Equipment or Study of Geothermal Science - Similar to the opportunities talked about for solar equipment, Port 15 Utah in Cedar City is a brand new, rail-served business industrial park that has been designed to handle the specific needs of companies that produce equipment for the alternative energy industries. Those companies that are involved in designing of geothermal systems, producing equipment for geothermal power generation or are involved in the research and development of geothermal production, will find similar incentives and opportunities tot relocate or expand their presence to the SGEC. As stated earlier, the real benefit of doing businesses in our communities is derived more from the inexpensive cost of doing business combined with the one-time incentives. Incentives, work force and other issues are discussed later in this document.
WIND POWER RESOURCES - In a document produced by the U.S. Department of Energy, the following statement is made, Wind Powering America indicates that Utah has wind resources consistent with utility-scaled production. “The larger contiguous areas of good to excellent resource are located in western Utah, especially near the Raft River Mountains near the Idaho border, and in the area near Milford.” Jasen Lee of the Deseret News wrote this in his Nov. 14, 2008 article: “First Wind LLC, based in Newton, Mass., formerly known as UPC Wind, is breaking ground on the Milford Wind Corridor, a planned 300 megawatt wind-energy facility that will eventually include 159 turbines rising 262 feet high across 40 square miles of public and private land, according to a company news release. The electricity generated by the facility, located 10 miles northeast of Milford in Beaver and Millard Counties, will be sold to the Southern California Power Authority, said Paul Gaynor, First Wind president and chief executive officer.
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The Milford Wind Corridor received approval in October from the Bureau of Land Management, and the first phase of the project will have 97 turbines generating about 200 megawatts of power, serving approximately 50,000 households, he said. The second phase would move ahead after the company secured commitments for the remaining 100 megawatts of proposed power generation. "We are now in the process of marketing subsequent phases of the project within Utah and other parts of the West," Gaynor said in an interview.” The Renewable Energy Atlas of the West indicates that there are approximately 23 billion kWh’s of power to be generated by Utah’s wind corridor. The Milford Corridor has Class 3 annual average wind power, which is found in the valley corridor in the vicinity. Strong southwesterly winds frequently occur over this area, especially during the spring when the wind resource averages Class 4. Utah Wind Map - The Department of Energy's Wind Program and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) published a new wind resource map for the State of Utah. This resource map shows wind speed estimates at 50 meters above the ground and depicts the resource that could be used for utility-scale wind development. Future plans are to provide wind speed estimates at 30 meters, which are useful for identifying small wind turbine opportunities. As a renewable resource, wind is classified according to wind power classes, which are based on typical wind speeds. These classes range from Class 1 (the lowest) to Class 7 (the highest). In general, at 50 meters, wind power Class 4 or higher can be useful for generating wind power with large turbines. Class 4 and above are considered good resources. Particular locations in the Class 3 areas could have higher wind power class values at 80 meters than shown on the 50 meter map because of possible high wind shear. Given the advances in technology, a number of locations in the Class 3 areas may be suitable for utility-scaled wind development. This map indicates that Utah has wind resources consistent with utility-scale production. The larger contiguous areas of good-to-excellent resources are located in western Utah, especially near the Raft River Mountains near the Idaho border, and in the area near Milford. Other good-to-excellent wind resource areas are located on the higher ridge crests throughout the state.
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BIOMASS RESOURCES - If you are looking for a large amount of material for biomass supply, Utah has been recognized as only possessing a small quantity of materials suitable for biomass. However, that assessment comes from a group looking at the supply of feedstock and this assumption is only looking at utilizing feedstock or food supply materials for biomass projects. Biomass has expanded to look at various material supplies, various uses and continue to look for coordinated efforts with communities and institutions of higher learning. In March of 2006, the United States Government Accountability Office released a report on woody biomass user’s. This report was written for areas, like the SGEC, to work with natural and renewable resources more common to our area. Here are some of the results: “The primary factors facilitating woody biomass use among users we reviewed were financial incentives or benefits associated with its use, either in the form of financial assistance for using the material or in energy cost savings. Other factors included the availability of an affordable supply of woody biomass and users’ interest in environmental benefits associated with its use. Four of the 13 users in our review received financial assistance to begin using woody biomass, including state and federal grants and tax-exempt bonds. Three users also were given ongoing support as a result of their use of woody biomass, including grant funds for expanding their wood storage facilities and payments for producing renewable energy. Moreover, six users reported energy cost savings from using woody biomass in place of fossil fuels such as natural gas. For example, two small school districts individually reported about $50,000 and $60,000 in annual fuel cost savings, while two large pulp and paper mills reported several million dollars in such savings. Several of the 13 users also cited the availability of an affordable supply of the material as important in their use of woody biomass—particularly in cases where it was already being removed as a byproduct of other activities, such as commercial logging or private land clearing. Finally, three users told us that their use of woody biomass was due in part to anticipated environmental benefits associated with using the material, including improved forest health and reduced emissions.”
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Other biomass research that involves waste products, algae and other methods are also being seriously looked at in our region.
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR ALTERNATIVE ENERGY COMPANIES Labor Availability - A question was raised recently about the availability of labor force in Cedar City, Utah. Though the unemployment rate is low compared to national trends, that number better reflects the desire for people in this community to work, not the true number of people looking to make a transition in employment. In our community, our people have a strong desire to work and they want to stay here. The number of people that are working at lower wages is astounding. They work under these conditions, because our citizenry will do what it takes to stay in this community. Presently, there are a good number of Cedar City residents that commute 45 minutes to Hurricane in order to work at the Wal-Mart Distribution Center. If similar work was provided just five minutes from the center of town, many of those individuals would definitely seek employment with alternative energy companies. Also, there are a large number of people who are underemployed. They are working in the fast food business, retail and other lower paying sectors because they want to live in Cedar City. These individuals are qualified to work in manufacturing, distribution or other sectors, but those opportunities are presently not available. This underemployment phenomenon can be verified by Charlotte Pipe’s recent hiring experience.
(Charlotte Pipe)...... had received more than 300 applications and were overwhelmed with the quality of the applicants.
Charlotte Pipe’s building was recently completed in Port 15 Utah. After just seven (7) months from design to completion, Charlotte Pipe advertised in the paper for 40 positions. Not long after they started taking applications, Bob Cranford, a senior manager at Workforce Services, received a phone call from Charlotte Pipe’s Plant Manager asking him to cut off their advertising. They had received more than 300 applications and were overwhelmed with the quality of the applicants. They found most the employees that they needed in their first two days of interviews. There is a misconception that you cannot find quality employees in the western United States. Cedar City has always met the needs of the local employers. Those who have chosen to take care of their employees have been rewarded with a fierce loyalty. We have also developed several methods of getting the word out for Port 15 Utah companies. WITH TODAY’S ECONOMY,
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There really isn’t a problem finding employees; the problem is still finding quality employees. Our area has always provided a quality workforce. We constantly hear stories on the quality of our workforce, their willingness to work and their dedication to these companies. Alternative energy companies will find those same traits in employees from this area that want to work for their companies. It is a community that will pull together whatever resources are necessary to make things work. And we want to do this for your company.
Employment, Workforce & Population 30 Miles
60 Miles
Employed Population
15,790
58,321
Unemployed Population
8,758
32,741
44,631 204,238 Source: Commerce CRG 6/24/2008
Total Population 16+
# # # #
Recent Hiring Process for new company had 350 applications for 40 jobs. Southernutahhelpwanted.com has 10,871 registered users looking for work or looking to upgrade their current employment status. 76,331 Skilled Workers in Southwestern Utah (within 40 Minute Drive) Southern Utah (within 40-Minute Drive) 203,499
Iron County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44,813 Kane County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,440 Garfield County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,872 Beaver County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,466 Interstate 15 Corridor Clark County, Nevada (2 Hours South).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,874,837 Wasatch Front (3.5 hours North). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Million
Employment Events 2008-09 Employment Event Charlotte Pipe ResumeQ Local Internet Resume Site
Positions
Resumes
60
More than 300
Takes Apps
324
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Employment Event
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Positions
Resumes
Takes Apps
10,871 Registered Users & 692 Resumes
Southern Utah University Students
NA
7,214 (934 registered looking for work)
Chili’s
32
117
Graduating Seniors 2007-08
476
Department of Workforce Services
NA
1,012 Registered Job Hunters
Big Lots Department Store
70
712
SouthernUtahHelpWanted.com
Iron County School District
As we have stated before, wages are the most important aspect of recruiting quality help in our area. The local citizenry is productive and there is a plethora lower paying jobs in the area. But for those companies that are interested in low turnover, paying an attractive wage will allow them to hire some outstanding employees.
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UTAH BUSINESS INCENTIVES If a company meets certain criteria set up by the State of Utah, the following incentives are available to those companies wishing to relocate to Port 15 Utah.
STATE OF UTAH INCENTIVES Businesses relocating to or expanding in Utah may be eligible for incentives from the state and/or local municipality. The following is a summary of these programs. The Board of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development meets on the third Friday of each month to review and approve applications for state incentives. Applications submitted by the last Friday of the preceding month will be considered. For more information on these incentives, please contact Brent at (435) 865-0050. EDTIF (Economic Development Tax Increment Financing) / HB 11 Approved in 2005, EDTIF is the state’s most popular incentive. It is a post performance rebate of "new state revenue" generated by a new project, including the payroll tax of the new employees, corporate income tax and sales tax. Incentives granted are based on the potential number of jobs created, wage levels of the new jobs, capital investment in the project, purchases from local suppliers, location of the project and the type of industry. Preference is given to targeted economic clusters of Aviation & Aerospace, Defense & Homeland Security, Life Sciences, Outdoor Products & Recreation, Energy & Natural Resources, Financial Services, and Composite Materials. A local incentive and creation of an Economic Development Zone at the project site are requirements of this incentive program. Qualifying companies must create new jobs paying at least 125% of the county median wage in urban areas, and 100% of the county median wage in rural areas. Employees within the client company moving from other parts of the state will not be eligible. The maximum allowable rebate is 30% of new state revenues over 20 years. Typically incentives range from 10% to 20% tax rebates over five to ten years. IAF (Industrial Assistance Fund) Companies expanding or relocating in Utah may apply for incentive grants from the IAF (Industrial Assistance Fund). The IAF is a discretionary fund allocated by the state legislature to help encourage job growth in Utah. Incentives are paid on a post performance basis after jobs are created in yearly increments. Jobs must then be retained over the life of the project.
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The length of the grant is typically five years with an incentive range of $1,000 to $3,000 per new job. There are five types of IAF grants available to companies that meet the following qualifications: Urban Locating in Salt Lake, Utah, Weber, Washington, Iron or Davis County. Creating at least 50 new jobs that pay at least 125% of the county median wage.
Corporate Headquarters Relocating to Utah from out of state. Utah is competing with other states for the company’s business. 1 Source: Governor’s Office of Economic Development. Economic Opportunities Relocating or expanding into the state of Utah. Company must demonstrate ability to expend funds with employees, contractors, vendors and other businesses proportional to amount of funding received each year. Funding ratio of 2:1 must be maintained for at least five years from time funding is granted. Company must demonstrate ability to repay funding through economic activity and in-state growth. Eligible companies may receive up to $500,000 for their project. Custom Fit Training The Custom Fit program provides specialized training for companies to train their employees. Custom Fit training is administered through Utah College of Applied Technology centers and state colleges and universities. Training may be conducted at Salt Lake Community College campuses, Applied Technology Center, or the business location. Instructors may be educators from Utah institutions, private sector consultants, or industry
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specialists. For companies with salaried in-house instructors, Custom Fit training dollars may be used for materials and facility rentals. This incentive subsidizes up to $250 per trainee for professional training. Research Tax Credits Companies doing qualified research in Utah are eligible for income tax credits of up to 6% of qualified research expenses. Qualified research expenses include: The purchase price of machinery and equipment primarily used for conducting qualified research in Utah (provided the equipment is not exempt from sales or use taxes). Wages paid to employees engaging in qualified research. Computers, computer equipment, and software. Sales Tax Exemption for Manufacturing Equipment Manufacturers (SIC 2000-3999) are exempt from sales tax on the purchase of new equipment for Utah plant start-up. Replacement manufacturing equipment purchases are also exempt from sales tax.
IRB (Industrial Revenue Bonds) Industrial revenue bonds are available and issued through local government entities. There is a $10 million cap per issue and a $150 million total annual state allocation cap. Recycling Zones More than twenty Utah communities have been designated by the State of Utah as Recycling Market Development Zones. Businesses that collect, process, distribute, or use recycled materials in their manufacturing process can earn economic incentives by locating in these zones or by applying for the creation of a new zone. Incentives may include: 5% state tax credit on machinery and equipment. 20% state tax credit of up to $2,000 on eligible operating expenses. Technical assistance from state recycling economic development professionals. Various local incentives including zoning assistance, discounted business license fees, etc.
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Our development group is prepared to set arrange a meeting with a State of Utah representative that will guide you through those processes for which your company qualifies. Contact us at (435) 865-0050.
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Local Incentive From Community & Port 15 Utah Developer The development group that manages Port 15 Utah is prepared to do the following for projects that meet job and investment criteria.
Type of Incentive Low Land Cost
Discounted Price of Land via W age & Investment
Training Money
Cedar City’s investment of infrastructure for manufacturing/office-headquarters
Entities Involved
Incentive Description
Port 15 Utah/Private Land Owners
Land prices for large alternative energy farms are very reasonable. Call for more information.
Port 15 Utah
Companies that wish to relocate main office facilities or production of materials can find land discounts that are tied into job creation factors.
Southwest ATC
Our local technical college has funds provided by the State of Utah to use for training. This is a first-come/first-serve program dependent on funding.
Port 15 Utah
Cedar City has already put a great amount of money into infrastructure for companies in Port 15 Utah to make sure that it is a real “plug and play” set up.
All of these incentives are negotiated with companies on an individual basis. Because incentives are considered an investment for our community as well as the business, they are tied to capital investment and quality jobs created. Contact us for more information on this criteria.
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Ability to Distribute to Multi State Locations
Other locations, do not offer distribution of energy through power and distribution of goods and services. Port 15 Utah and Cedar City, clearly have the best location for getting products to the West’s major markets. Interstates 15 and 70, can get your products directly to most of the West’s major markets. It is also just one day’s trucking trip from our market into the Los Angeles market. You get efficiency without the headaches caused by a location in the over regulated California market. In fact, many of Cedar City’s present companies relocated here from California and have been able to operate more profitably and still serve clients in that market.
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“True” Project Fast Track Permitting Every economic development group on this wonderful planet claims they have Fast Track Permitting. Our company has built throughout the Rocky Mountain region and has worked with numerous municipalities. So when we say, “no one has a True Fast Track Permitting process, like Cedar City’s program,” we are not just bragging we are stating a fact. Cedar City understands the pace that businesses need to operate at in order to compete in today’s world. They have made a process that allowed Charlotte Pipe to complete their 147,000 SF building in seven (7) months. Design, permitting, land development and occupancy certification were all completed in just seven months. They will even work with you to clear certain portions of your building so that equipment can be stored and set up before occupancy. Home Depot received their building permit in one week’s time. It is amazing how this community will work with you to get the job done, instead of getting in your way. These are examples of other Cedar City fast track projects and their time schedules. Project
Square Footage
Start to Finish
Charlotte Pipe & Foundry
147,000 SF
7 Months
Home Depot
124,000 SF
8 Months
Panda Express
6,000 SF
92 Days
Convergys
20,000 SF
96 Days
Iron County School District Office
20,000 SF
4 Months
Providence Center Retail #3
17,000 SF
3 Months
Cedar Middle School
150,000 SF
9 Months
Cedar City will allow certain phases of construction to happen while plans are being drawn up. You will be able to start your excavation work while developing plans.
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Just seven (7) months for design, permit, build and occupancy - True Fast Track
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Port 15 Utah Aerial View
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Southwest Green Industry Coalition - February 18, 2009
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In Conclusion...... Port 15 Utah is offering more than just short term benefits.
You get it all, low cost of operations, quality workforce, annual savings, true fast track, strategic location and a great price on land. Call us today and make one of the best business decisions for your expansion.
Southwestern Green Industry Coalition 288 North Westview Drive Cedar City, Utah 84720 (435) 865-0050 Phone (435) 865-0054 Fax email:
[email protected] or
[email protected] PLEASE VISIT WWW.PORT15UTAH.COM
WHAT DOES THIS ALL MEAN? - Simply put, the Southwest Green Energy Corridor is ready to work with your company. It is an area rich in energy resources, ready for production of materials for alternative energy companies and your group can realize the benefits today. Contact us at (435) 865-0050 and we will make arrangements for your company’s visit to Cedar City, Utah to tour the sites, communities, colleges and we will explain in detail all of the other important features of Port 15 Utah. Contact us today.