Creating a Crowd-Investing Platform for Clean Energy Project Financing
Crowd-investing is now legal, both at the U.S. federal level and in at least 30 states. That means non-accredited investors can pool their funds to support local and state-wide clean energy projects. My personal focus is on Michigan first, because that is where I live, but the exact same principles apply to almost every state that has already passed laws that provide for intrastate exemptions from federal securities laws, thus enabling instate investors to support in-state projects. At present, there is a small group of interested people in Michigan, and we are seeking additional support for developing these concepts and beginning implementation for the first several projects.
Please read more below . . .
The Problem this Project Addresses
Energy project financing on a shared-savings, performance-contracting basis is already a multi-billion dollar per year activity in the U.S., but there is a major gap in financing for smaller projects (on the order of $10,000 to $1,000,000. Plus, small investors are usually hard-pressed to find opportunities that provide the qualities of low-risks and high-returns, like smart clean energy projects. And, opportunities for clean energy projects in millions of buildings remain undone, because of issues involving consumer trust and quality assurance. There are well known solutions to all of these issues, but start-up funding is needed to launch sustainable platforms for building these markets in all 50 states. This project will prove the concept in one state at a time, while carefully documenting all of the necessary features so that the project can be easily replicated in multiple jurisdictions.
Region or Country Benefited by this Project
Michigan is a first target, but actions can begin in any jurisdiction.
Where Will the Student or Volunteer Work?
Virtual work is readily accepted. Specific geographic targets will be identified once the project gets underway.
The Person or Team at Your Organization Heading this Project
Tom Stanton, Principal Researcher National Regulatory Research Institute Affiliation is presented for information purposes only. This project is separate from my work for NRRI.
Academic Field, Expertise, Academic Level, and/or Experience Desired
We welcome support from any and all academic disciplines. We particularly need the support of students and faculty in business, financial, and legal departments.
Start Date
January 2019 or thereafter.
Commitment Duration
Minimum commitment of 40 hours. Specific tasks will be assigned depending on volunteer interests and previous experience.
Commitment Hours per Week
Open to any level at present.
Language Skills Required
Excellent English communications skills required.
Compensation
Position is presently voluntary, but once grant or project funding is identified, then compensation will be considered, commensurate with previous education and experience.
How to Apply
Please contact Mr. Stanton at stantontom1 [at] gmail [d0t] com
Thank you for your interest. We look forward to hearing from you.