Keynote Speakers

  • Modernizing the grid is a core component in energy transition, and battery storage could play a major role to ensure stability and reliability. The panel will dig into the potential challenges of rejuvenating the grid as well as the promising future of battery storage. 

  • The global debate on investments in nuclear energy has been present for a few years, between the hopes of a carbon free method of producing energy and the challenges of nuclear waste management. We will explore both the current role of power fission in decarbonization efforts, as well as the promises of fusion energy.

Dr. Kathryn (Katy) Huff

Associate Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and Former Department of Energy Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy

  • For the Global South, the energy transition is not only a question of decarbonization but also one of equity and development. This panel will explore the distinct challenges of achieving sustainable energy in regions where access, affordability, and infrastructure often lag. We'll discuss pathways to clean energy that support both economic growth and climate goals, examining the roles of policy, innovation, and international cooperation in ensuring an inclusive and resilient transition. 

Hong Zhang Durandal

Associate Director at Zelestra, Co-Founder of Energy Hunters, and Co-Founder of RioNadi Energy

  • This session will explore emerging financing strategies, policy incentives, and private-sector opportunities to accelerate the energy transition and drive sustainable energy projects forward. We’ll discuss the roles of government support, impact investing, and risk mitigation, exploring how these approaches can unlock the capital needed to build a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

  • The shift to clean energy depends on critical minerals and robust supply chains, but sourcing challenges are significant. This panel addresses supply chain resilience, resource sustainability, and the geopolitical factors shaping this essential sector. We’ll explore strategies for supply chain diversification and the role of innovation in ensuring a steady, ethical, and environmentally sound supply of the minerals essential for a low-carbon future.

  • This panel will explore the transformative potential of green hydrogen in driving a sustainable energy transition. Panelists will discuss the latest advancements in hydrogen production technologies, strategies for scaling infrastructure, and the role of policy frameworks in fostering a global hydrogen economy.

  • With buildings accounting for a large share of global emissions, decarbonizing the built environment is crucial for a sustainable future. This panel will investigate the policies, innovative technologies, and financial incentives that support sustainable building practices and energy-efficient retrofits. From urban high-rises to rural homes, we’ll look at how design, materials, and energy solutions can reduce emissions across diverse building types and regions.

  • Decarbonizing transportation is essential to achieving climate goals, encompassing not just road vehicles but also aviation, marine transport, and rail. This panel will explore a range of solutions, from electric vehicle infrastructure to sustainable aviation fuels and cleaner maritime technologies. We’ll examine the innovations, policies, and partnerships needed across these sectors to reduce emissions, as well as the unique challenges each mode faces in transitioning to a low-carbon future.

Kate Ringness

Senior Advisor to the Secretary at the Department of Energy

Dr. Evan Carver

Assistant Instructional Professor at the University of Chicago

Dr. Elizabeth A. Kocs

Chief Equity Officer at MachH2

Veronica Hume

Project M&A Senior Manager at RWE Clean Energy, WRISE Chicago President