The Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council is a membership-driven organization. As a value to our members, we highlight their efforts and impact on the state’s advanced energy economy. Today, we’re highlighting TAEBC Member Ben Colgrove, Principal of Catbird Consulting. 

Why are you a part of TAEBC?

I am part of TAEBC because of the impressive connecting power of the organization, bringing together diverse partners for innovative energy technologies, demonstrations, and projects across our region. I see it as a place to partner for dreaming up big ideas, launching new innovations and implementing unique projects that advance energy solutions across our region, even lead the nation.

What value does TAEBC provide to your organization?

TAEBC is outstanding for fostering regional relationships that support the creation of collaborative projects that tackle multi-stakeholder, world-changing energy initiatives. Our region offers world class universities and national labs, cutting-edge private and non-profit organizations, and an amazing entrepreneurial spirit; we have all the right parts to lead the advanced energy transition and tackle the big challenges.

A Recent Win:

Catbird Consulting’s recent success is partnering with The National Institute for Hometown Security (a Kentucky non-profit), The City of Ripley, Tennessee (population < 8,000), and  Resilient Energy and Infrastructure (a Nashville company) to deploy a first-of-a-kind portable solar microgrid to power city buildings.  The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Connected Communities program is funding the project, recognizing the value of community-based, advanced energy demonstration projects aimed at improving infrastructure resiliency. This unique project and partnership are due in part to connections made at TAEBC’s events.