Roundtable Event Explores Opportunities in Energy Innovation
Logan, Utah - On Tuesday, May 30, 2023, the Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, and Air, in collaboration with Utah Clean Energy and Congressman Blake Moore, hosted a "Opportunities in Energy Innovation" roundtable at the Utah State University Logan Campus. The event brought together 38 energy leaders from various sectors, including industry, government, academia, and non-profit organizations, to discuss pressing issues and potential solutions in the field of energy innovation.
The roundtable discussion covered a wide range of topics, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the energy sector. Participants discussed barriers to entry, the importance of engagement in hydrogen, the need for growth in society, the significance of energy efficiency, and the critical role of interconnection and transmission. They also addressed the urgency of clean energy permitting, the need for a comprehensive strategy, and the potential of nuclear energy in the future.
“We’re typically accustomed to talking about the ‘what,’ yet we haven’t articulated the ‘how,’” said Brian Steed, executive director of USU’s Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, and Air. “How do we get there? How do we articulate that into a feasible plan? We need to know about the resources that we have.”
Congressman Blake Moore expressed his commitment to advancing energy issues and emphasized the importance of continuous progress. He highlighted the need to dispel the sentiment of complacency and the significance of keeping energy innovation at the forefront of legislative discussions.
“Energy issues are becoming some of the largest ideas in the word bubble,” said Moore. “When ideas become omnipresent for legislators, there’s beginning to be movement. The challenge now is dealing with the sentiment of ‘Oh, we’ve settled that; now we’re done.’ We have to keep up the push.”
Throughout the event, participants stressed the need for collaboration and a coordinated approach to energy development. They emphasized the unique advantages of Utah, such as its topography, geology, and weather, and discussed the potential for wind, geothermal capacity, and partnerships with power companies and nuclear development. Additionally, participants recognized the importance of municipal power and conservation strategies, acknowledging the interconnected nature of energy systems.
“We’re at a point of agreement across party and economic lines that we need to build stuff,” said Josh Craft, government and corporate relations manager for Utah Clean Energy. “There’s a tremendous opportunity to take advantage of federal resources available. There are also legal changes to overcome. Whatever path we choose, we need begin with embracing energy efficiency.”
"Every barrier to entry is bounded in 'that's not the way we've always done it.' Once we get past that, then we can make progress," said Matt Hirst, president and CEO of CRS Engineers.
"It can take up to 10 years to get clean energy permitted,” said Theresa Foxley, chief of staff of rPlus Energies. “Interconnection is also a critical issue. Getting those projects onto the system can be really challenging. Congress could help with transmission."
Joel Ferry, executive director of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, emphasized the need to leverage Utah's topography, geology, and weather to explore various energy sources, including wind, geothermal capacity, salt domes, and partnerships with nuclear development.
The roundtable participants also explored the role of different energy sources, including natural gas, clean energy, and low-carbon solutions. They discussed the importance of taking a lifecycle approach to energy evaluation and the potential of technologies such as carbon capture and char products.
“The idea of clean energy (versus low-carbon energy) takes a lifecycle approach, with all externalities and impact of a product,” said Riki Hrenko-Browning, president of the Utah Petroleum Association. “That includes waste disposal, supply chain, hazardous waste. When we compare energy opportunities, we need to have clear glasses. It’s not just about carbon.”
“The largest energy source out there is conservation,” said Paul Rogers, USU professors and member of the Logan City Renewable Energy and Sustainability Advisory Board. “We could excel in that direction and come together in the ‘Utah way.’”
The event concluded with a commitment from Congressman Blake Moore to support energy projects through letters of support and legislative opportunities. He emphasized the need for evidence-based decision making, data-driven policies, and the acknowledgment of the benefits of conservation.
“This roundtable event provided a platform for insightful discussions and the exchange of ideas among key energy leaders,” said Steed. “It highlighted the pressing challenges and potential solutions in the energy sector, paving the way for future collaborations and advancements in energy innovation.”
About the USU Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, and Air: The Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, and Air guides Utah land, water, and air policy by connecting decision makers with high-quality research.
About Utah Clean Energy: Utah Clean Energy is a non-profit organization committed to advancing clean energy solutions in Utah and the broader region. Through collaboration, policy advocacy, and community engagement, Utah Clean Energy works to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
About Congressman Blake Moore: Congressman Blake Moore represents Utah's 1st Congressional District and is dedicated to serving the needs and interests of his constituents. He is actively involved in energy and environmental issues, advocating for innovative solutions and sustainable development.