In an era where sustainability is no longer just a trend but a necessity, the construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditional energy sources, such as fossil fuels, have long been the backbone of industrial growth, but their environmental impact is undeniable. The construction sector is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for nearly 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions.

As we face increasing climate challenges, the shift toward renewable energy sources - like solar, wind, and bioenergy - has become essential for reducing our carbon footprint and promoting a sustainable future. This transition not only mitigates the effects of climate change but also fosters innovation, drives economic growth, and creates job opportunities in emerging sectors.

To explore this pressing topic in depth, we had the privilege of interviewing Stacy Milheiser, an industry expert in energy, industrial, and environmental construction.

 

About Stacy Milheiser

Stacy has over 27 years of extensive experience in energy, industrial, and environmental construction, beginning her career with Foster-Wheeler Constructors, followed by 19 years with Duke Energy, and now with Lochmueller Group as the Client Relations Manager for the Energy & Industrial sector.

Her years working large-scale industrial projects have honed her skills and expertise in a multitude of roles, from project management processes and life-cycle specialties to project data and information management, public and customer relations, project coordination, and purchasing and contract administration. She is skilled in asset management, construction safety compliance, and QA/QC requirement audits.

Passionate about the quality of life within her communities, she carved out her path in Corporate Sustainability Strategic Planning to help her clients achieve their sustainability and clean energy goals.

 

What inspired you to focus on sustainability in the energy and industrial construction sectors?

“I spent nearly 20 years with a major utility in the Fossil/Coal industry, building new power plants and upgrading existing ones for more effective and efficient operations. It has been very good to me and my communities. However, I knew we had to start focusing on the long-term effects of resource use and management, and that we needed to start taking responsibility for the part we play in our climate changes and the events that were happening.”

“In looking to sustainable practices, I realized that it was more than just what was sustainable for our planet… It was also about having good business practices to take care of people, giving a sense of purpose, helping them know that their organizations were doing good things physically and ethically. It was about knowing where our products came from and who was making them. It was understanding that the more we show care for our people and our clients, the better the revenue streams to support a higher quality of life. It’s truly all connected, and it’s our responsibility to guide our work for a better world. What’s the point if we aren’t doing good things together?”

 

How do you see the role of clean fuels and alternative energy sources evolving in the construction industry?

“We must stop thinking that the only ‘clean fuel’ application line is connected to EV’s, or the only ‘alternative energy’ sources to non-coal. We need to stop putting a political spin on it to use as a platform. Instead, I’m energy & fuel agnostic, and we need a healthy mix of ALL sources to meet the needs of our populations.”

“‘Clean Fuels’ will never be completely clean, but they will be better over time with new technology. Just like anything, it is never perfect in the beginning stages of development… as we define our needs, tweak our processes, and help integrate the normalcy of a good mix into our resource planning, it will become more acceptable as we see the culture change in its outlook.”

 

What challenges do you encounter when promoting renewable energy initiatives within traditional energy frameworks?

“The biggest issues I am always confronting are fear of job loss, funding opportunity changes, and the negativity towards renewables that has developed due to our current political environment. I connect with many of my former team members and past co-workers, so I feel their pain when they worry about the job market after a coal-fired plant is decommissioned or converted to another power generation source.”

“Because we are an earlier generation, it’s difficult to be comfortable learning something new, so navigating those conversations is a challenge. When folks have worked in their respective fields within our industry for 20-30 years, but not yet to retirement age, there is a fear of job loss, of not feeling valuable. I also am constantly trying to answer questions in a way that helps people understand that we don’t have to be afraid of change, that we still need fossil fuels to stay resilient, and that their communities should benefit from the wave ahead rather than fight against it and see it go elsewhere.”

 

What are some key trends you currently observe in the renewable energy market?

“Funding and project support is struggling now… Semantics play a big part… rather than using terms that are polarizing, we are working to help people be more comfortable, supportive, and understand that it’s a positive for ALL involved. ‘Clean Energy’ might now be ‘Alternative Energy Sources’… ‘Clean’ fuels may now be referred to as ‘Cleaner Fuels’ or ‘Alternative American Fuels’.”

“I’m also seeing our efforts to solve problems that, in the past, had put up a wall with the public for successful development. For example, solar arrays that at one time took up farmland are now being developed in the earliest stages with multi-uses in mind through Agrivoltaics, not just through livestock grazing, but agricultural partnerships that help the land continue to produce in other ways. Different types of contracts and agreements are helping communities have more say and control of their resources.”

“We are also seeing earlier BESS development and implementation for reliability, and a LOT more educational efforts by developers to help the public understand all the different ways they can benefit through multiple renewable energy sources.”

 

In your opinion, how can cities and communities effectively collaborate to achieve sustainability goals?

“This question is my favorite! The most straight-forward and effective step to take is to develop a CAP – (Climate Action Plan) – There are always items to address through a good plan, and actionable steps that can be taken by a community that shows real improvement, collaboration, and support by its residents.”

“Never underestimate the power of a good team that is represented by several different local industry leaders to bring pain-points to light, and carry an actionable path to improved air quality, water quality, and quality of life. With all of that happening, it’s a magnet for new business and industry to call it ‘home’ and the economy will thrive! It’s a WIN-WIN-WIN when we empower our residents to have input and work together!”

 

In conclusion, the construction industry stands at a pivotal crossroads, where the urgency of sustainability cannot be overstated. Stacy Milheiser’s insights highlight the intricate connections between traditional energy practices and the necessary shift toward renewable sources. She underscores that embracing a diverse array of clean fuels is essential for meeting the evolving needs of our communities while mitigating climate change.

Stacy also points out the critical challenges of fear and resistance that arise when transitioning from established practices, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and education. By fostering collaboration through Climate Action Plans, communities can not only address these challenges but also enhance their quality of life and economic resilience.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Stacy for her invaluable contributions to this conversation. Her passion for sustainability and commitment to improving community well-being serve as a guiding light for the construction industry's future.

 

Connect with Stacy on LinkedIn.

 

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At Chicago Build, we are dedicated to sustainability, and our speakers and panel discussions reflect that commitment. With over 400 industry leaders sharing their insights across various stages, including a dedicated sustainability track, we aim to inspire and educate our 30,000+ attendees on the importance of eco-friendly practices in construction. 

Join Stacy in shaping a greener future by participating in our Sustainability in Construction Ambassador Program, where you can collaborate with like-minded professionals and contribute to meaningful change in the industry. Join the Ambassador Community today!