A Voice in Our Region’s Economic Future
PV Squared Joins Congressional Roundtable on Franklin County’s Economic Future
Local business leaders gathered in Deerfield to discuss regional challenges, opportunities, and the importance of collaboration in strengthening Western Massachusetts.
On October 28, PV Squared Solar General Manager Geoff Medeiros joined fellow Franklin County business leaders for an economic development roundtable at Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory in Deerfield, Massachusetts.
The discussion, co-hosted by Congressman Jim McGovern, Magic Wings’ Victoria Tubbs, and Lora Wondolowski, brought together local business representatives to share their experiences, identify common challenges, and explore opportunities to strengthen the region’s economic future.
Geoff attended on behalf of both PV Squared Solar and the Greenfield Business Association, reflecting the cooperative’s commitment to participating in conversations that shape the communities where we live and work.
Local Voices, Shared Challenges
Franklin County’s economy is shaped by a diverse network of independently owned businesses, cooperatives, farms, nonprofits, and community institutions. While their industries may differ, many face similar challenges.
Throughout the roundtable, participants discussed issues including housing shortages, rising operating costs, and the pressures facing local businesses.
“One of the most valuable things about bringing local business leaders together is recognizing how interconnected our challenges really are,” said Geoff Medeiros, General Manager of PV Squared Solar.
“Whether we’re talking about housing, workforce development, or the rising cost of doing business, these issues affect our entire regional economy. As a worker-owned cooperative rooted in Franklin County, we believe that local businesses have an important role to play in shaping solutions. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to that conversation and help advocate for a stronger, more resilient region.”
In a follow-up message to attendees, Wondolowski reflected on the common ground that emerged:
“There was so much overlap between all of you from housing shortages to higher costs of everything. I took a lot of notes. I look forward to partnering you all and the Congressman to lift up this region.”
These conversations create an opportunity for local experiences to inform broader economic development priorities and future policy discussions.
Building a More Resilient Regional Economy
As a 100% worker-owned cooperative headquartered in Greenfield since 2002, PV Squared understands that a thriving clean-energy industry depends on a thriving local economy.
Affordable housing, workforce development, sustainable infrastructure, and the long-term success of locally owned businesses are interconnected. Investments in one area can strengthen the others.
For nearly 25 years, PV Squared has worked to support that interconnected future through local employment, renewable-energy infrastructure, professional training, and community partnerships.
Participation in regional economic discussions is another expression of that commitment.
We’re grateful to Congressman McGovern, Victoria Tubbs and the Magic Wings team, and Lora Wondolowski for creating space for Franklin County’s business community to be heard.
A stronger Franklin County is built through cooperation, local leadership, and a shared commitment to the people who call this region home.
Built by owners. Built to last.