The road to renewable energy is actually a race. Organizations and corporations are eager to provide support and funding for energy sources – like new solar arrays – to help add more “green” energy to power grids throughout the U.S.

Corning is among those corporations. Its sustainability goals and with the greater good in mind, the company is preparing to act fast when opportunity strikes.

Corning’s Global Energy Management (GEM) team devised a new approvals process for expediting renewable energy projects. The GEM team worked closely with Finance and Global Supply Management to identify and  address any roadblocks to approving projects.

The effort earned recognition from ENERGY STAR, taking home a 2021 Top Project Award.

“At Corning, we’re proud to contribute to progress in renewable energy,” said Ed Schlesinger, senior vice president and corporate controller, and project sponsor. “This process sets up Corning to approach opportunities with speed and intention, doing our part to green the grid.”

One key element is education. The GEM team is taking time to proactively inform project approvers within Finance of the scope, benefit, and even risks associated with this type of investment. Arming approvers with context should help them be ready to make educated decisions when time is of the essence.

As important is standardization. A consistent form and toolset ensure all critical details are provided for approvers to make an informed decision.

The Corning team is ready to share its adaptable process and learnings with its ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year peer companies in 2022.