Research, ideas, and leadership for a more secure, peaceful world
A discussion on the democratic opportunities in renewable energies from a transnational perspective.
The Ash Center and the Environment and Natural Resources Center cordially invite you to join a discussion on the democratic opportunities in renewable energies from a transnational perspective, moderated by Muriel Rouyer, Professor of Political Science at the University of Nantes (France) and Adjunct Professor of Public Policy at HKS. Welcome remarks will be given by French Ambassador, Gerard Araud, from 4:00-4:30pm, followed by a panel discussion. Panelists include Karine Dognin-Sauze, Vice-President of Greater Lyon, who will present HIKARI, an innovative project on “positive energy building,” developed jointly by France and Japan; Jeremy McDiarmid, Senior Director for Innovation and Industry Support at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (“MassCEC”); and Shaun Chapman, Vice President, Policy & Electric Markets at SolarCity. With special video presentation by Bill McKibben, author, environmentalist, activist, and co-founder of 350.org.
Background:
Climate change is an urgent matter, yet the conversation seems to be contained in international negotiations or in the highly technical energy sector, both inaccessible to most people. Renewable energies are at the epicenter of a green revolution heralded by innovative local governments in conjunction with parts of the corporate and technology sectors. Renewable energies not only represent an immense opportunity for both the Global North and South to cut emissions, but they also have the potential to mobilize a wide range of actors interested in clean energy: every-day citizens who want to pay less and consume wisely; businesses that anticipate the benefits of investing in expanding renewable energy markets; and cities dedicated to “smart government” initiatives creating innovative green solutions to carbon producing economic activities. This panel aims to bring the renewable energy conversation to the people by addressing a number of important questions: What renewable energy policies and practices already exist? Why have some been successful, while others have failed? Who are the primary actors of change? And what opportunities exist for citizens to participate in climate action?