This is a guest opinion column.

America’s economic future hinges on energy—its reliability, affordability, and availability. Nowhere is that future being written more decisively than in Alabama.

While much of the country debates how to adapt to growing energy demands, Alabama is acting. With foresight and purpose, our state is building a foundation of energy strength that is not only fueling our own growth but offering a model for the nation. We’re not following trends—we’re setting them.

Earlier this year, Alabama took a historic leap forward with the passage of the Powering Growth legislative package, which is on its way to Governor Kay Ivey’s desk. This landmark initiative positions our state to compete and win in the global race for high-quality jobs, advanced manufacturing, and next-generation industry.

At the heart of Powering Growth is a simple, powerful idea: economic strength begins with energy strength. That’s why we’re investing in the infrastructure that powers everything—from rural development to robotics, from advanced manufacturing to domestic reshoring.

What makes Alabama stand out with Powering Growth:

Proactive planning: We didn’t wait for crisis or grid strain to act. Working with the Alabama Department of Commerce and the Alabama Growth Alliance as well as our energy providers, we commissioned a top-tier, independent study to guide our steps. The result is a strategic, data-backed energy blueprint tailored for long-term success.

Private-sector focused: There are no massive government bureaucracies or tax hikes hiding in this plan. Alabama is harnessing market forces and private investment to drive results—especially in rural communities that other states often overlook.

Real infrastructure, real jobs: Through the creation of the Alabama Energy Infrastructure Bank (AEIB), we now have a fiscally conservative financing tool to accelerate the buildout of power systems that serve industrial sites. This means faster permitting, fewer bottlenecks, and shovel-ready opportunities for American companies looking to grow.

Conservative values in action: Alabama’s approach doesn’t just make economic sense—it reflects our core principles: smaller government, smarter investment, energy independence, and national security. It’s an “America First” strategy built for the 21st century.

Other states have made big moves in energy infrastructure. But Alabama is matching that momentum with smart, agile legislation—and winning attention from industry leaders who see the value in our business climate and energy readiness.

This is not just about lights staying on—it’s about keeping America on. From Huntsville’s aerospace hubs to auto manufacturers across rural Alabama to our thriving ports in the Southern part of the state, Alabama’s economy is evolving, and we’re making sure our power grid is evolving with it.

We’ve seen what happens when infrastructure is neglected—whether it’s blackouts abroad or costly slowdowns at home that halts job creation in its tracks. Alabama isn’t waiting for a crisis. We’re preparing for a future of growth, resilience, and global competitiveness.

The Powering Growth package is a promise to the people of our state that Alabama will lead with vision, act with discipline, and compete with confidence. Our message to the rest of the world is clear: if you want to see how energy and economic policy can work hand in hand, look no further than Sweet Home Alabama.

We’re not just powering Alabama—we’re powering what’s next.

Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter is from Rainsville. Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger is from Cullman. Sen. Arthur Orr is from Decatur.

Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Young business owners will set up shop across Gulf Shores and Orange Beach this Saturday. Elementary school students have spent months learning about running a business. Now, they are ready to sell their products to the public. The Coastal Alabama Business Chamber organized the program to teach kids about entrepreneurship.

The 2nd Annual Coastal Alabama Kid Entrepreneurs (C.A.K.E) Day will take place tomorrow, Saturday, May 10th. Local mayors Robert Craft and Tony Kennon issued special proclamations allowing the students to operate their businesses for the day. The young entrepreneurs will be stationed at various locations throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Students have attended workshops to learn important business skills. These workshops covered branding, marketing, finance, and how to build a stand. Many students have gone beyond the basics by designing logos and creating websites for their businesses.

“The creativity these students have shown towards the program is incredible,” said Ale Lewis, Education and Programs Coordinator for the Chamber. “Many have gone the extra mile by designing logos, starting websites, and submitting full business plans.”

The businesses offer a wide range of products and services. Some students will sell homemade food items like cupcakes, pickles, and fruit kabobs. Others will offer crafts such as beaded bracelets, birdhouses, and artwork. A few young entrepreneurs have created unique services like baseball glove breaking-in and airbrush tattoos.

Business locations include Orange Beach Elementary School, The Wharf shopping center, and various local businesses. Hours vary by location, with most stands operating between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. A full list of locations is available at:
Gulf Coast Chamber – Cake Day.

Several sponsors have helped make C.A.K.E. Day possible. These include Columbia Southern University, Gulf Coast Rental Co, OWA, Riviera Utilities, and Volkert. The Chamber encourages community members to support these young entrepreneurs this Saturday.