Tech Sector Speaker Series | Renewable + Alternative Energy to Power the Future
As the region inches closer to becoming a major tech hub, it’s important that Arizona embraces renewable energy technologies that have a lower environmental impact and also provide energy security for businesses and tech startups, increase energy independence and help drive economic development.
The Arizona Technology Council’s June 2020 Tech Sector Speaker Series event featured a distinguished panel of sustainability experts who shared their insight and expertise on how renewable energy technologies are driving economic development in Arizona and beyond.
“As a statewide organization focused on science and technology with offices in Phoenix and Tucson, the Arizona Technology Council has had a long-time relationship with the Arizona Energy Consortium,” said Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council. “Renewable energy is a huge focus area for the Council and its public policy and advocacy efforts.”
“Basically, energy touches all of our lives,” said Michelle De Blasi, Environmental, Natural Resources & Energy Attorney. “Arizona does have a renewable energy standard, but it’s one of the lowest in the country right now.”
The panelists also discussed what impact the ease of access to renewable energy has on the ability of states to drive economic development.
“Having access to renewables has really driven economic development,” said Karla Moran, economic development manager at Arizona utility Salt River Project (SRP). “Some companies don’t want to go through the process of being the first ones to adopt renewable energy, as that process can be cumbersome as they navigate through the regulatory issues. But once a company successfully embraces renewable energy, other companies tend to follow.”
“Renewable energy is a powerful solution to restoring economic security at a time when Arizonans need it most,” said Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council. “Instead of sinking money into a polluting and shrinking sector like fossil fuels, we should be investing in an industry that has a vibrant future. The time to invest in renewables is now, especially when our economy needs solutions so badly.”
“Companies looking to re-locate or launch new locations are now making renewable energy options a part of their site-selection criteria,” said Ron Vokoun, project director at Fluor, a global engineering and construction company.
Moran added, “Its great that SRP is now seen as more of a partner in renewable energy. Especially after Apple recently located to the Phoenix market, SRP definitely received a lot more attention on the side of large-scale renewables, which in turn prompted other companies to follow suit. It really opens the door for other companies to get on board with renewable energy.”
Moderated by Michelle De Blasi, Environmental, Natural Resources & Energy Attorney, it was a fantastic discussion and well worth a listen.
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REX STEPP
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RON VOKOUN |
KARLA MORAN |
JOHN HOLTZ
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INNOVATION SPONSOR
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PRESENTING SPONSOR
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BRONZE SPONSOR
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COCKTAIL SPONSOR
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About the Tech Sector Speaker Series
Join the Arizona Technology Council for its new 2020 AZ Tech Sector Speaker Series that brings together tech titans, outstanding CTOs, advocates, innovators and industry champions of existing and emerging sectors who are reshaping Arizona’s tech ecosystem. This expert panel forum advances Arizona’s tech evolution and growing designation as a tech hub. With a diverse range of experience and technology backgrounds, these tech titans are leading the way and making a positive and lasting impact on the local technology industry. Interested in becoming a panelist, moderator or sponsor? VISIT HERE to learn more about this exciting new event series and to see the topics that we’ll be covering in Phoenix.
Become an event sponsor!
Increase your company’s visibility in Arizona’s growing technology industry sector by becoming an event sponsor.
Contact [email protected] to learn about the various levels of sponsorship to suit your organization.