Dr. Paolo Farah chairs the 2nd Energy Transition Conference, the April 28, 2022 session "Toward A Renewable Energy Transition in Appalachia" was organized in partnership with the West Virginia University (WVU), John D. Rockefeller IV School, Dept. of Public Administration, WVU Center for Resilient Communities, WVU Eberly College of Interdisciplinary Research Collaborative on Global Challenges and Local Responses Initiative, WVU Eberly College Interdisciplinary Research Collaborative on Climate, American Society of International Law and gLAWcal.
Chairs and Speakers: Paolo Farah, Chair of the 2nd Energy Transition Colloquium & Associate Professor, WVU Eberly College, Public Administration, Bradley Wilson, Director of the Center for Resilient Communities & Associate Professor, WVU Eberly College, Geography, Adrian Anderson, Senior Director - Renewable Energy Microsoft, Thomson Gross
GIS Analyst - Urban Grid Solar, Autumn Long, Project Manager - Appalachian Solar Finance Fund
The online conversation Toward a Renewable Energy Transition in Appalachia, part of the 2nd Energy Transition Colloquium, will explore ways to leverage on renewables to facilitate the energy transition in Appalachia.
The objective of this conference is twofold. The first, is to analyze from the perspectives of humanities and social sciences the impact that science and technology have on the society, the ethical and social concerns with particular consideration on the community impact of exploration and exploitation of energy, water and other natural resources and how to balance these concerns with such relevant important issues like economic development. The second is to look at how to increase inclusive public engagement in drafting energy and environmental policy and to focus on community development.
The speakers will answer the following crucial questions for the future of our energy system:
- What are the key obstacles and opportunities right now in advancing renewable energy transition (in Appalachia or in general)
- How or why is renewable energy transition a social and environmental justice issue?
- What kinds of research do we need to advance a just renewable energy transition? How can we more effectively increase public participation in research / science / policy for renewable energy transition?