Counties can play a major role in increasing American energy independence by increasing the supply of renewable energy and decreasing the demand for energy through energy efficiency improvements. Over time, local investments can also help lower the cost of energy for small businesses and agricultural producers. Counties in the West have a geographical edge when it comes to the burgeoning energy field – and stand to attract long-term, high-paying jobs if they act on their natural advantage. This session will address best practice examples of strategies currently being implemented in rural areas across the West, where smaller counties are boosting their local economies by improving and streamlining their local energy policies and processes.