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Why Here?
Top 10 Reasons why the Inland Empire is the Ideal Spot for a Green Valley
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Unprecedented growth
More than 2 million new residents will arrive in the Inland Empire within the next 15 years. As a result, the IE will maintain its role as the fastest growing region in the state in terms of job and population expansion.
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Wealth of Land Availability
The Inland Empire region has the capacity to build more than 30 million square feet of Class A office space and according to the 2007 Inland Empire Regional Outlook Conference the area has 361million square feet of industrial space, of which approximately 310 million (85.8%) is warehouse and distribution.
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Sophisticated Infrastructure
The Inland Empire boasts five local and international airports, four major railroad systems and 10 interstates and highways with access to the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. This positions the region as a critical player in the goods-movement infrastructure.
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Unparalled Educational Resources
The region has over 40 colleges, universities, private training schools and institutes. Many of these institutions maintain strong focus in the applied sciences, engineering, business and entrepreneurial studies and medicine. More than 400,000 degreed workers presently live in the region with an additional 222,000 expected by 2020.
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Concern for Conservation
Residents of the Inland Empire are motivated to conserve. Nine out of ten recycle and one-third actively conserve water. There is a prevailing sentiment that government should take the lead in providing incentives for businesses to adopt environmentally-friendly technology.
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Established Industries
Several leading-high tech companies are located within the region including Kramer Junction's solar farms in Barstow, Heliostate's thermal electric farm, Palm Spring's wind farms, Phoenix Motorcars' electric car company and many more.
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International Interest in Green Technologies
According to the December 2007 poll by the National Venture Capital Association, over 80 percent of venture capitalists believe that in 2008 firms involved in CleanTech will attract a greater share of VC funds, both domestically and internationally.
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Ideal Climate
The Inland Empire's climate is well suited for renewable energy production with over 270 days of sunshine and consistent wind patterns.
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Built-in Market Demand
Residents of the Inland Empire are willing to support businesses working to be environmentally-friendly. In a recent regional survey, 90 percent of respondents indicated being more inclined to purchase from companies that had an environmentally supportive vision. They also indicated willingness to pay a premium price to support these businesses.
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Overwhelming Environmental Need
Inland Empire residents face some of the longest commute times in the country adding to the region's air quality concerns. This indicates a clear need for professional and skilled-labor positions within the region. According to the American Lung Association, the Inland Empire is at the top of list of most air polluted regions.
