Energy 2.0: The Unconference

UNCONFERENCE THEMES

TECHNOLOGY & CAPITAL: FUEL FOR CHANGE

The Technology & Capital theme of the conference delves into the advancements powering this renaissance. Breakthrough technologies, smart grids, and battery storage are rapidly altering the energy paradigm, decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels. At the same time, capital investment strategies and financial models are evolving to support the growth of sustainable energy projects. This fusion of technology and capital accelerates the transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

POLICY: PAVING THE WAY FOR CHANGE

Policy is the cornerstone of sustainable energy progress. This year, our focus on Policy will highlight how regulatory frameworks and legislation can both catalyze and sustain the Energy Renaissance. Discussions will explore the intersection of climate goals and regulatory measures, the role of international cooperation, and the potential of green policies to drive economic growth and social equity in the energy sector.

PEOPLE: THE HEART OF THE RENAISSANCE

Finally, the People theme speaks to the diverse and dynamic community at the heart of this paradigm shift. Understanding that energy transformation is both technological and deeply human, this segment will emphasize the role of societal engagement, education, and workforce development. It will also explore how inclusivity and equity within the energy sector can be the catalyst for enduring, systemic change.

SCHEDULE 

Download the detailed agenda here.
Registration opens at 7:30 AM.  All full-day participants will enjoy complimentary valet parking, full breakfast, and lunch. 

8:00 AM CUP OF JOEY - NETWORKING & THE POWER OF WHY 
Kick off your day with our energizing breakfast event, highlighted by motivator Joey Sanchez, discussing the "Power of Why". It's a unique chance to engage in impactful conversations, seek motivation, and sharpen your goals both personally and professionally. Leverage this moment to infuse your morning with purpose and connect with energy innovators, leaders, policy and technology geeks and more. 

Joey Sanchez, Founder of Cup of Joey 
Lt. Colonel Lisa Jaster, Managing Consultant, ALLY Energy 

8:45 AM EMBRACING THE ENERGY RENAISSANCE 
Bill Shireman is a social entrepreneur, environmental policy innovator, and rare San Francisco Republican. He brings together people from all sides of the political spectrum including capitalists, activists, conservatives, and progressives, among others. Professor Shireman is a prolific author. His latest book, “In This Together: How Republicans, Democrats, Capitalists, and Activists are uniting to tackle climate change. 

Bill Shireman, Chief Executive Officer, Future 500, and Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, In This Together America 
Katie Mehnert, Chief Executive Officer of ALLY Energy, and Chairman of the Board, Allies in Energy 

9:30 AM POLICY, CAPITAL AND AI IN A LOWER-CARBON FUTURE 
Experts in AI, climate finance, and policy converge at the UN Conference to debate how innovation and investment can foster a more sustainable future. Learn about the synergies, opportunities, and challenges. 

Katherine Culbert, Democratic Candidate for Texas Railroad Commission & CEO of K&K Process 
Aruna Viswanathan, Chief Operating Officer, Alphax Decision Sciences 
Juliana Garaizar, Chief Development & Investment Officer, Malaika Ventures, Co-Founder of Energy Tech Nexus 

10:15 AM BREAK 

10:30 AM FIXING AMERICA & CLIMATE: AN ENGINEER & CONSERVATIONIST SOLUTION 
Get ready for a no-holds-barred session where the gloves come off.  Inspired by two edgy new books, this fireside chat will cut through the noise to tackle the intersection of climate change, energy, and American politics. 

Benji Backer, Founder and Executive Chairman,  American Conservation Coalition and author,  The Conservative Environmentalist 
William Taggart, Chief Executive Officer, Cavern Energy Storage, and author, Fixing America: An Engineer's Solution to our Social Cultural and Political Problems 

11:30 AM WORKING LUNCH - CREATING A BIGGER TENT FOR AMERICA: HOUSTON CLIMATE & ENERGY WEEK 
Learn more about Houston's first Energy & Climate Week.  Join in the planning and be a part of the conversation. 

Katie Mehnert, Chief Executive Officer of ALLY Energy, and Chairman of the Board, Allies in Energy 
Joey Sanchez, Founder of Cup of Joey 
Lt. Colonel Lisa Jaster, Managing Consultant, ALLY Energy 

1:00 PM  DOING HARD THINGS: INNOVATION & FRONTIERS IN ENERGY TECHNOLOGY & DEPLOYMENT 
This session is dedicated to uncovering the underlying motivations that drive individuals, companies, and governments toward sustainability and innovation. Our panel of distinguished guests from various sectors to discuss the significance of questioning and understanding the 'why' behind our actions and decisions. This discourse aims to shed light on how a clear purpose can lead to more impactful innovations, a stronger commitment to sustainability, and a deeper connection with consumers and citizens. 

Trevor Best, Chief Executive Officer, Syzygy Plasmonics 
John Hall, Chief Executive Officer, Houston Advanced Research Center 
Cheryl Ginyard Jones, Managing Director, Americas,  Ramboll 

1:45 PM CLOSING