Energy Transitions Panel: Navigating the Future of Clean Tech & Energy

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with experts in energy transitions. This panel explores the complexities, challenges, and innovations driving the shift towards cleaner energy sources. Hear from historians, industry leaders, and policy experts as they share their perspectives on the past, present, and future of energy transitions.
Panel Highlights:
Introduction by MC:
Opening Remarks:
Jason sets the stage by introducing the panelists and highlighting the importance of energy transitions in achieving sustainability goals. Clark Miller leads this thought-provoking panel discussion.
Panelist Introductions:
Chris Jones:
Associate Professor of History at ASU, specializing in the history of energy transitions.
Focuses on how Americans have adopted fossil fuel energy and the social changes around coal, oil, and electricity. Explores the lessons from past energy transitions to inform current and future efforts.
Hunter Bork:
CEO of a local Arizona energy company focused on commercializing and deploying clean fusion energy. Explains the concept of fusion energy and its potential to provide clean, distributed electricity. Emphasizes the importance of decentralizing energy to enhance grid reliability and reduce costs.
Lauren Keeler:
Assistant Professor at the School for the Future of Innovation in Society at ASU and Director of the Just Energy Transition Center. Works on integrating diverse voices into the conversation about energy transitions and supporting communities impacted by energy system changes.
Focuses on creating inclusive and just energy futures through community engagement and policy support.
Key Topics Discussed:
Climate Action Plan for Arizona:
Lauren Keeler:
Discusses the development of Arizona's first climate action plan in 17 years.
Highlights the importance of detailed greenhouse gas inventories and measures to reduce emissions. Emphasizes community engagement and addressing local needs, such as grid connectivity and infrastructure improvements.
Fusion Energy and Decentralization:
Hunter Bork:
Advocates for decentralized energy systems to enhance grid resilience and lower costs.
Explains the potential of fusion energy to provide clean, continuous power.
Stresses the need for a dynamic set of solutions, including solar, wind, and other renewable sources.
Historical Perspectives on Energy Transitions:
Chris Jones:
Explores the history of energy transitions, noting that past shifts have taken decades and involved complex social changes. Highlights the need to phase out fossil fuels while scaling up renewable energy. Emphasizes the importance of regional and state-level efforts in driving faster transitions.
Affordability and Ownership of Energy Assets:
Panel Discussion:
Explores the relationship between energy affordability and the decentralization of ownership.
Discusses the historical role of large corporations in driving up energy prices and the potential for new models to reduce costs. Highlights the importance of policy and regulatory frameworks in supporting affordable, clean energy.
Community Impacts and Just Transitions:
Lauren Keeler:
Addresses the challenges faced by coal-dependent communities during energy transitions.
Emphasizes the need for transition funds and support for communities losing jobs and revenue from coal plant closures. Advocates for inclusive and equitable approaches to energy transitions.
Audience Q&A:
Role of Federal Subsidies:
Discussion on the impact of federal subsidies for fossil fuels and the importance of addressing these to support clean energy. Emphasizes the need for policy reforms and creative solutions to drive the energy transition.
Making Energy Transitions Appealing:
Panelists discuss the importance of making clean energy options attractive and accessible to the public. Highlights the role of storytelling and marketing in promoting new energy systems.
Closing Remarks:
Encouraging Youth Involvement:
Panelists share advice for young people looking to enter the energy sector and make a difference.
Emphasizes the importance of long-term commitment and understanding the complexity of energy systems.
Call to Action:
Encourages attendees to think creatively about how to support and accelerate the energy transition in their communities.
Takeaways:
Energy transitions require a multifaceted approach, integrating technology, policy, and community engagement. Decentralized energy systems can enhance grid resilience and lower costs.
Historical lessons can inform current efforts, highlighting the need for patience and persistence.
Inclusive and just transitions are crucial for supporting communities affected by energy system changes.
For more insights and detailed discussions, watch the full video and join us in our journey towards a sustainable energy future.
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