Why the North San Diego Business Chamber Became a Power100 Champion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: 
Chris Thorne 
CEO, North San Diego Business Chamber 
Email: chris@sdbusinesschamber.com 
Phone: (858) 217- 8970 

When Sustainability Makes Good Business Sense: Why the North San Diego Business Chamber Became a Power100 Champion 

San Diego, CA — The North San Diego Business Chamber is making a clear statement: sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for business. 

For many organizations, sustainability still comes with a lingering misconception—that making environmentally responsible choices is expensive or complicated. According to North San Diego Business Chamber CEO Chris Thorne, there’s often a “perceived tension” between sustainability and smart business decisions. The Chamber is working to change that narrative by putting sustainability into practice, not just talking about it. 

“We can demonstrate as a business organization that sustainability absolutely belongs in the business conversation,” said Thorne. “It just makes good business sense.” 

Founded nearly 50 years ago, the North San Diego Business Chamber represents more than 800 businesses across the region, with approximately 65% classified as small businesses. With that reach comes responsibility. 

“When you have the privilege of having a voice in the community, it’s important to be thoughtful about how you use it,” Thorne said. “As a chamber, we have influence within the business community, and using that voice responsibly matters to us.” 

That responsibility extends beyond Chamber members to the broader community. From workforce development initiatives to programs supporting military members and first responders, the Chamber is committed to creating long-term value for the region it serves—including a continued focus on sustainability. 

One of the ways this commitment takes shape is through the Chamber’s Sustainability Advisory Council. Meeting monthly, the council brings together business leaders and community stakeholders to explore environmental stewardship, sustainable infrastructure, and green business development. The group also serves as a forum for sharing best practices that balance sustainability goals with real-world business needs. 

Leading by example is central to the Chamber’s approach. That’s why the North San Diego Business Chamber recently partnered with San Diego Community Power to become a Power100 Champion, choosing 100% renewable energy for its operations. 

Power100 Champions are organizations that enroll in Community Power’s Power 100 service plan, which delivers 100% renewable energy for an additional $0.01 per kilowatt-hour above the standard service plan. For many businesses, it’s a simple step that can help support Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) or Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals—without disrupting daily operations. 

“It’s the ultimate no-brainer,” Thorne said. “When you can do good and be business-smart at the same time, the decision becomes easy. And when that smart decision is also simple to implement, it’s even easier to say yes.” 

In addition to environmental benefits, Power100 Champions gain access to networking opportunities with fellow participants and community leaders. For the North San Diego Business Chamber, these connections open new doors to collaborate with like-minded organizations and learn how sustainability is being integrated into everyday business practices across industries. 

“Here in San Diego, sustainability is part of who we are as a community,” Thorne said. “This is where we should be advancing it, modeling it, and creating opportunities for others to see what’s possible.” 

By becoming a Power100 Champion, the North San Diego Business Chamber is reinforcing its belief that sustainability and business success are not opposing forces—but powerful partners. 

About the North San Diego Business Chamber 
The North San Diego Business Chamber has served the region’s business community for nearly 50 years, advocating for economic vitality, workforce development, and responsible leadership. Representing more than 800 businesses, the Chamber connects leaders, supports growth, and champions initiatives that strengthen both business and community.