This Week's Latest Tech News in Fresno, CA - Sunday April 27th 2025 Edition

Fresno’s tech landscape in 2025 is at a turning point, blending major clean energy milestones with ongoing digital transformation - even as air quality continues to be a pressing concern for residents.

One of the most ambitious projects, the Cornucopia Hybrid Project, is set to provide 300 MW of solar power and 300 MW of battery storage - enough clean energy for up to 300,000 homes - following recent streamlining efforts by Governor Newsom to accelerate construction and job growth in the region (learn more about the Cornucopia Project).

• Clean energy leadership: The Cornucopia Hybrid Project boosts local renewable energy capacity and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable growth.
• Electrification of transit: Nuvve’s $16 million contract creates solar infrastructure and 56 charging stations, advancing Fresno’s electric shuttle fleet for cleaner commutes (details on Fresno’s electric vehicle infrastructure).
• Tech sector impact: With 400+ tech firms contributing $1.9 billion to Fresno’s economy, the region is fostering dynamic innovation and job growth.
• Environmental focus: Ongoing efforts aim to counterbalance Fresno’s status as one of the nation’s worst for air pollution and promote equitable, sustainable development.
• Policy and hope: Visionary city policies and projects reflect Fresno’s capacity for balancing innovation with sustainability for a healthier future (see more Fresno tech news).

Project	Benefit	Key Contributor
Cornucopia Hybrid Project	Supplies clean energy for 300,000 homes	Christopher Perez
Nuvve Transit Initiative	Expands electric vehicle infrastructure	Charles Perez
Tech Firm Expansion	Drives $1.9B local economy impact	Richard Lopez

Fresno’s ability to balance innovation with sustainability is evident in local policies and projects, signaling hope for healthier, more inclusive growth.

Fresno’s move toward sustainable infrastructure took a major step forward in 2025 with the completion of a 27-megawatt solar and battery storage portfolio at its water treatment facilities, through a collaboration between ForeFront Power and the city’s Department of Public Utilities (DPU).

Unlike many municipal projects, this effort required no upfront investment from the city - the entire system was financed, built, and is operated by ForeFront Power under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), offering Fresno a fixed, below-market electricity rate and significant protection from future utility rate hikes.

• Zero upfront city cost: The project was fully financed and operated by ForeFront Power under a 20-year PPA.
• Cost savings for Fresno: Residents are projected to save over $122 million by 2045 with a fixed, below-market electric rate.
• Environmental impact: The system generates approximately 47 million kWh annually, powering 6,000 homes and preventing over 26,000 tons of CO₂ emissions each year.
• Job creation: The initiative created 120 local union jobs, boosting community employment.
• Climate goals support: The project employs solar arrays and smart batteries, reducing fossil fuel dependence and strengthening Fresno’s resilience.
• Streamlined procurement: The Renewable Energy Aggregated Procurement (REAP) Program simplified contracts and pricing for public agencies.

Christopher Williams stated, “This is a practical example of how next-generation clean technology and public-private partnership can lower costs and support a healthier community.”

Feature	Impact	Annual Value
CO2 Emissions Avoided	Environmental Protection	26,000 tons
Homes Powered	Energy Access	6,000 homes
Projected Savings	Economic Benefit	$122 million (by 2045)

To learn more, read the project overview from PV Magazine USA, see details on the technical and financial structure at ForeFront Power’s announcement, and review community and environmental benefits in CleanTechnica’s coverage.

Fresno’s air quality challenges remain in focus following the American Lung Association’s 2025 “State of the Air” report, which highlights persistent concerns for both public health and economic growth in the community.

Fresno ranks third in the nation for year-round particle pollution and is among the cities with the highest frequency of unhealthy ozone days. This reflects not just local sources, but also the broader impact of wildfire smoke and extreme heat worsened by climate change.

According to the report, nearly half of the U.S. population, including more than 156 million people, lives in areas receiving an “F” for at least one measure of air pollution, and over 42 million - many in Central California - fail all three measures: year-round particle pollution, short-term particle spikes, and ozone.

Especially notable is the disproportionate risk faced by children, older adults, outdoor workers, and people of color, who are more likely to live in areas with unhealthy air, a disparity emphasized throughout this year’s findings.

Local statistics underline these concerns: hundreds of thousands of Fresno residents are exposed to air quality above federal health limits, which can lead to issues such as asthma attacks, heart and lung complications, and reduced life expectancy.

The Clean Air Act has brought progress, but in regions like Fresno, gains have slowed due to worsening wildfires and regulatory debates over EPA funding and standards.

These health risks are prompting businesses to rethink recruitment strategies, as many tech and healthcare candidates express hesitation about relocating to the area due to air quality.

For more details on Fresno’s ranking and the national context, see the American Lung Association’s full analysis of California cities here, explore the national report’s top-line findings here, and review broader pollution impacts and climate trends here.

Fresno’s tech sector is gaining national attention for a significant achievement: a 119% increase in women’s tech jobs from 2019 to 2023. This surge leads the nation, with recent studies highlighting it as the top metro for the fastest growth in female tech representation.

For comparison, other cities like Austin and Boise have seen 38% and 53% growth respectively, but Fresno’s progress is unmatched in this timeframe (study on top U.S. metros for women in tech).

• Community efforts drive women’s tech job growth: Barbara Martinez, executive director at a local nonprofit, says partnering with Girls Who Code and SheTech has expanded access and opportunities for women and nonbinary individuals to enter tech.
• Educational collaboration broadens opportunities: Richard Williams, a university liaison, highlights that scholarship programs and university collaborations attract more women to tech roles and foster talent pipelines.
• Surge in women applicants marks real progress: Approximately a third of recent tech job applications in Fresno now come from women, signaling tangible movement toward narrowing the gender gap (best metros for women in tech).

City	Growth in Women's Tech Jobs (2019-2023)	Female Tech Representation (%)
Fresno	119%	~33%
Austin	38%	Not specified
Boise	53%	Not specified

These gains follow a national trend where women now make up about 35% of the tech workforce, a huge jump from just 9% in the early 2000s (2025 women in tech stats).

James Williams, a Fresno tech founder, puts it simply: “Prioritizing diversity fuels company growth and community innovation.”

• Ongoing challenges persist nationwide: Women across the nation are still underrepresented in senior roles and continue to face pay disparities in tech.
• Mentorship and equitable hiring push inclusivity: Local leaders are doubling down on mentorship, equitable hiring, and continuous skill-building to further close the gap.

Fresno is shaping itself as a leader in tech sector inclusivity and has become a welcoming landing spot for women eager to advance their tech careers.

Fresno’s push into clean energy is creating job opportunities and supporting the local economy, mostly thanks to union labor led by IBEW Local 100.

When the city completed ForeFront Power’s 27 MW solar and battery projects across key water treatment facilities in 2025, more than 120 skilled union jobs were generated specifically for local electricians, installers, and maintenance specialists.

The majority of these positions were filled by residents from Fresno and neighboring Central Valley communities, making sure the benefits of these projects are kept within the region.

In some accounts, the total job creation for Fresno’s growing solar portfolio - including installations at the wastewater facility, police substation, and airport - reaches as high as 192 jobs, as construction ramps up at more city-owned sites.

All roles come with union wage guarantees, health benefits, and the backing of apprenticeship and ongoing training programs supported by industry-recognized certifications like NABCEP, which broaden opportunities for both new entrants and experienced workers.

Programs like the Renewable Energy Aggregated Procurement (REAP) have helped Fresno streamline project procurement, letting city agencies lock in long-term cost savings while contractors ensure safe, up-to-code installations through rigorous union standards (source).

For those new to clean energy jobs, here’s what union labor brings to the table:

• Job Security and Quality: Union positions offer full benefits and structured training, giving workers protection and building stable careers.
• Safety and Standards: Projects meet strict safety and workmanship codes, achieved through ongoing training and certifications like those highlighted by organizations such as IREC (IREC on solar workforce training).
• Community Impact: Career pathways for apprentices and ongoing training help ensure tech jobs stay accessible for local youth and underrepresented groups (project insights).

One local union leader, Michael Lee, summed it up well:

“These projects provide real careers that keep families grounded and power Fresno responsibly.”

The collaborative model between unions, developers, and city agencies ensures Fresno’s clean energy tech boom isn’t just about the environment - it’s about sustainable economic growth, skilled workforce development, and long-term community benefits.

Fresno is making significant progress in renewable energy as ForeFront Power expands its solar and battery storage projects to high-impact city sites, including Fresno Yosemite International Airport and public school campuses.

This builds on the city's recent completion of a 27 MW solar and storage portfolio across its water treatment facilities, which is projected to save ratepayers over $122 million by 2045 and avoid more than 26,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually - the equivalent of removing 6,000 gas-powered vehicles from the road each year (full project overview).

At the airport, construction is underway for a new solar and storage system as part of additional projects in development, designed to further offset facility energy costs and ensure critical infrastructure is supported during peak demand periods (ForeFront Power's Fresno initiatives).

On the education front, Fresno Unified School District has partnered with ForeFront Power to add solar and energy storage at 31 district sites, generating about 23.5 million kWh of clean electricity each year, which is enough to power over 3,000 homes.

These school-based installations are expected to yield over $40 million in savings over 20 years, while also supporting classroom STEM activities and local job creation (details on school projects).

In total, these upgrades not only lower operational costs for the city and schools but also promote local hiring - 120 union jobs were created for city sites alone - while furthering air quality and energy resilience for the community.

• Renewable energy leadership: Fresno strengthens its role as a regional leader in clean energy through ongoing investments.
• Economic and educational growth: Sustainable infrastructure supports both local job creation and educational opportunities for students.
• Environmental benefits: The projects significantly reduce emissions and enhance air quality for the Fresno community.

Matthew Wilson said, "These clean energy initiatives secure a sustainable future for both our city's economy and our next generation."

Project Site	Annual Impact	Key Benefit
Water Treatment Facilities	Saves $122 million by 2045	Major CO₂ emissions reduction
School District Sites	Generates 23.5 million kWh	Supports STEM education
Airport	Offsets energy costs	Ensures infrastructure resilience

Fresno’s tech ecosystem moved forward this week with Valley First Credit Union naming Sarah Smith as Vice President of Commercial Banking - a step aimed at expanding financial support for the area’s tech and business sectors.

Smith, who brings more than a decade of commercial banking experience and is based in the Fresno area, will lead Valley First’s efforts to expand business banking throughout the Southern Region, which covers Kern County up to Merced County.

Her track record includes previous roles at Bank of America and Tri Counties Bank, where she specialized in supporting business clients’ lending and deposit needs.

Valley First’s leadership said Smith’s role will be critical in providing tailored financial solutions for local tech startups and established IT firms, linking the credit union’s services directly to the fast-growing tech sector’s evolving needs (read more about Smith’s background).

• Community growth: Fresno’s tech sector has grown rapidly, highlighting opportunities and also the ongoing challenge of financing for startups (details on Sarah Smith's appointment).
• Valley First's approach: With Smith at the helm, Valley First is offering flexible lending, cash management, and direct advisory services to innovation-driven businesses.
• Holistic support: The credit union supports local mentorship initiatives and specialized banking products for emerging industries such as SaaS and clean energy (learn how strategic leadership is shaping partnerships).

Collaboration between financial institutions and Fresno’s tech sector is expected to further drive innovation and create significant opportunities across Central California as credit unions adapt to the unique needs of technology-focused entrepreneurs and businesses.

Fresno’s push for better air quality is moving beyond talk, with local tech and public health initiatives working together to address persistent air pollution.

In 2025, the city expanded its partnership with environmental organizations and startups, rolling out more than 75 IoT-based air quality monitors in neighborhoods, schools, and public spaces.

These devices provide real-time pollution data, enabling timely health alerts and guiding city planners as they respond to local needs. Community-led efforts are also gaining momentum, inspired by grant-funded programs like those highlighted in a recent roundtable on community air quality monitoring, where experts such as Lisa Harris share strategies for accessing funding and maximizing impact.

Early results are promising - reports from the Fresno Department of Public Health show a 15% reduction in asthma ER visits in monitored areas, demonstrating that targeted technology investments can lead to real health improvements.

Building on these outcomes, Fresno is accelerating efforts to lower emissions from vehicles, a major contributor to local pollution.

Over 100 electric buses have now joined the FAX transit system, and more than 400 public EV charging stations are active citywide since 2023 - an increase of nearly 120%.

School bus electrification, supported by grants and new research efforts like the upcoming Energy Commission’s air quality modeling solicitation (modeling and monitoring air quality), forms a key part of Fresno’s approach.

These initiatives support the city’s aim to cut municipal emissions by 30% before 2030 and align with research into wildfire pollution’s impact, underscoring the need for robust environmental monitoring, as seen during recent California wildfires (wildfire pollution and its effects).

A quick look at Fresno’s 2025 environmental innovation:

Initiative	Result	Main Contributor
IoT Pollution Sensors	75+ units, 15% drop in asthma ER visits	Linda Lopez
Electric Buses Deployed	100+ units, 5,000+ tons CO₂ saved	Christopher Martin
EV Charging Expansion	400+ public stations citywide	Lisa Harris

As Mayor Carla Aguilar-Curry noted,

“This is Fresno making public health and tech innovation go hand in hand.”

From community-driven monitoring projects to electrification and new research partnerships, Fresno is showing that practical technology solutions can help residents breathe easier and build a healthier future together.

Fresno’s tech community is making notable strides toward sustainability, backed by large-scale clean energy projects and a growing ecosystem of innovation. Recent solar and battery storage projects developed for the City of Fresno Department of Public Utilities have added 27 megawatts of solar capacity and more than 4 MW of battery storage at three major municipal sites.

These installations are projected to save taxpayers over $122 million by 2045, generate enough electricity to power over 8,000 homes annually, and avoid more than 26,000 tons of CO₂ emissions each year - equivalent to removing around 6,000 gas-powered cars from the road.

Projects like these, constructed using local union labor, spotlight how Fresno is leveraging renewable energy to cut costs and address air quality concerns for residents.

The clean tech workforce in Fresno continues to grow, with more than 400 local tech companies contributing $1.9 billion to the regional economy. This momentum is buoyed by investments and startup activity focused on AI, ag-tech, and smart city solutions.

For example, the recently certified Cornucopia Hybrid Project - streamlined by state-level judicial processes and led by BayWa r.e. - will soon add 300 MW each of solar power and battery storage, providing enough clean energy for up to 300,000 homes while supporting job creation and local tax revenues.

With more homes, schools, and businesses transitioning to solar, the city’s renewable infrastructure is expanding alongside new co-working spaces and startup incubators that keep talent and technology moving forward.

These efforts are further supported by green transit initiatives, such as the electrification of Fresno EOC’s shuttle fleet using solar canopies and vehicle-to-grid technology, aimed at cutting transportation emissions and offering workforce training for the local community.

The combination of public and private sector initiatives is putting Fresno on the map as a hub for green jobs and economic resilience.

• Sustainability Efforts: Fresno's investments in clean energy projects are drastically reducing emissions and operational costs.
• Economic Growth: Over 400 tech companies are fueling Fresno's regional economy and job market.
• Innovative Projects: The Cornucopia Hybrid Project will exponentially boost local solar power and storage capacity.
• Workforce Development: Green transit initiatives are training locals while advancing eco-friendly transportation.
• Smart City Solutions: Investing in AI, ag-tech, and smart infrastructure is positioning Fresno as a regional tech hub.

To learn more about large solar and storage deployments, details on the Cornucopia project, and Fresno’s smart city initiatives, check out these updates from CleanTechnica, the California Land Use and Climate Innovation Office, and Nuvve’s vehicle-to-grid technology project.

Fresno’s tech landscape in 2025 is being shaped by the expansion of clean energy, shifts in tech workforce diversity, and ongoing efforts to address air quality - all backed by recent data and local initiatives.

Notably, the city has completed several large-scale solar and energy storage projects through a partnership between ForeFront Power and the Fresno Department of Public Utilities.

This 27 MW portfolio is expected to save local ratepayers more than $122 million by 2045, requires zero upfront municipal investment, and delivers clean power directly to critical city facilities with the help of advanced battery storage.

These projects are designed to lock in below-market electricity rates and shield the community from utility rate hikes, all while creating 120 local jobs in partnership with IBEW Local 100 - demonstrating a practical, scalable approach to sustainability.

You can learn more about the scale and impact of these projects at pv-magazine-usa.com.

• Clean energy savings: The completion of solar and storage projects is set to save Fresno ratepayers over $122 million, directly benefiting the community and securing long-term cost stability.
• Solar affordability: Fresno’s average solar system now costs $2.30 per watt, and with 30% tax credits, a typical 5kW installation comes in at about $8,064, making home solar more accessible than ever. Check current pricing and savings details at EnergySage's Fresno solar panel guide.
• Job creation: Solar expansion is expected to create 120 local jobs in partnership with IBEW Local 100, providing new opportunities and boosting the local economy.
• Clean energy impact: By supplying power to crucial city facilities, these upgrades reduce emissions and improve air quality, pushing Fresno towards a healthier future. For a closer look at the direct environmental and community impacts - like annual power generation equivalent to thousands of homes and significant reductions in CO2 emissions - see the project summary at CleanTechnica's Fresno solar overview.
• Diversity in tech: Women’s participation in Fresno tech roles is on the rise, exemplifying progress towards greater workforce diversity.

"The partnership between ForeFront Power and Fresno’s Department of Public Utilities not only brings clean energy savings but also empowers the community through job creation and improved air quality," says Robert Perez.

Project Benefit	Description	Associated Initiative
Cost Savings	Over $122M expected savings by 2045	ForeFront Power & Fresno DPU Solar Projects
Environmental Impact	Significant CO2 reductions, thousands of homes powered	Clean Energy & Air Quality Integration
Workforce Development	120 local jobs created	IBEW Local 100 Partnership

As technology ambitions grow, Fresno’s community benefits not only economically but also through a more diverse tech workforce.

With ongoing investments in both sustainability and talent, leaders like Michael Miller and Matthew Garcia are helping position Fresno at the forefront of California's clean tech transformation.

Fresno’s tech and sustainability surge in 2025 is shaping new opportunities for equity, although gaps remain. With more than 400 tech companies contributing $1.9 billion to the local economy, initiatives like the Innovate Fresno co-working hub and investments in ag-tech are driving both job creation and local entrepreneurship, especially as living costs remain 25% below California’s average.

• Innovate Fresno and ag-tech investments are fueling job creation and entrepreneurship, making the region more attractive for tech professionals - according to Lisa Brown.
• Cost of living remains low, with Fresno 25% under California’s average, enhancing affordability and community stability - says David White.

Programs tied to the Fresno DRIVE Initiative and the Fresno Economic Development Corporation (EDC) now use impact accounting to direct investment toward historically underserved communities, translating

community priorities into business decisions and attracting mission-aligned investors for projects that boost both jobs and economic health.

Local investors say, “Aligning impact funding with community needs ensures sustainable growth and real long-term change.”

In addition, Fresno has prioritized pilot programs like the Transform Fresno climate effort, which uses state climate funding to target greenhouse gas reduction, economic revitalization, and public health improvements in southwest and downtown neighborhoods through large community-driven projects focused on areas with the highest rates of poverty and pollution.

• Transform Fresno targets emissions, revitalizes the economy, and enhances public health, demonstrating commitment to community-driven solutions.
• Community-driven projects are focused on the most impacted neighborhoods, channeling resources efficiently to areas of highest need.

These investments are complemented by workforce initiatives and public outreach, including:

Initiative	Impact	Beneficiaries
Scholarships & Internships	More than 200 awarded for underrepresented youth	Young adults in underserved areas
Digital Access Programs	Improved connectivity and resources	Minority & first-generation entrepreneurs

Fresno’s challenges - chronic air quality issues and a history of economic inequality - are still front and center.

However, participation in initiatives like the Transformative Climate Communities Program, ongoing upgrades to public transit, and new energy efficiency programs for low-income families are signs that the region is prioritizing both environmental and social progress.

“We must keep clean tech and sustainability accessible to all neighborhoods for Fresno’s future,” emphasizes Mary Anderson, a local leader.

• Upgrades to transit and energy efficiency are improving access for low-income families across Fresno.
• Equalizing opportunity through attention to job access, education, and expanding health and digital infrastructure will ensure progress reaches everyone.

For more on the city’s inclusive tech growth, visit Nucamp’s Fresno Tech News, explore Fresno's impact-driven investment approach, or learn about the Transform Fresno community projects.

Fresno’s push to become a tech-forward and healthy community in 2025 is rooted in hands-on collaboration, bringing together civic leadership, tech innovators, workforce organizations, and public health voices.

Beyond clean energy job creation, larger tech trends are shaping the city: tech salaries now average $89,000, with a cost of living roughly 25% below California’s average, making tech careers more accessible for locals and newcomers alike (Fresno’s tech salary and affordability highlights).

Major investments like the Fresno Innovation District focus on ag-tech and software development, supporting startups and regular hackathons to keep the talent pipeline strong.

The city is also addressing its air quality challenges; ranked among the nation’s worst for air pollution, recent monitoring partnerships and initiatives like Energize Fresno are helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions, cut utility costs, and bring cleaner air to neighborhoods (Energize Fresno initiative details).

Meanwhile, local academic and research institutions are stepping up with projects using deep learning for traffic congestion forecasting, spatio-temporal air quality analysis around transportation corridors, and smart robot designs to improve pedestrian safety - all developed in conjunction with community stakeholders (Fresno State transportation tech projects).

Key players include:

• Civic leaders: Leading efforts to streamline green tech and smart infrastructure projects in Fresno.
• Tech companies: Driving clean energy, sustainable mobility, and digital equity across the city.
• Labor unions: Supporting training, job access, and community re-investment for residents.
• Public health and education advocates: Implementing science-backed, equity-focused interventions for healthier neighborhoods.

Sector	2025 Key Contribution	Key Contact
Unions	+120 clean energy and tech jobs	Charles Williams
Tech and Startups	Innovation hubs, pollution monitoring, AI-powered traffic solutions	Elizabeth Thomas
Civic & Health	Air quality programs, STEM equity, sustainable development	Charles Anderson

As new collaborations emerge - from business parks to environmental initiatives - Fresno’s ability to balance economic advance with clean air and opportunity will depend on cross-sector partnerships that put equity and public health at the center.