BY JESSYCA SHEEHAN
Last week, I had the opportunity to attend New York’s Climate Week, where leaders across government, industry and the nonprofit sectors came together to discuss how we accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more resilient economy.
Executive Director of the GW Alliance for a Sustainable Future Frank Sesno (left) moderated a discussion among experts Deanne Millison (Ford), Cy McNeill (Data Center Coalition) and Cody Taylor (ABB) on how customer needs and policy shifts are shaping the future of power. Lucas Public Affairs hosted the conversation in partnership with PPHC and our sister agencies.
Several themes resonated across conversations and connections:
🌎 Climate is the economy. Climate solutions are no longer framed only as environmental imperatives — they are economic drivers. EV adoption is still growing globally, even if demand has cooled since the post-pandemic surge. Falling battery prices are lowering EV costs, while efficiency measures save businesses and households money.
⚡ Yes, and… The message was clear: we need renewables and more. Solar continues to lead the way as the cheapest energy source, but new gas build and nuclear will still play a role in meeting demand. The “yes, and” approach — building solar while also advancing other clean solutions — is the reality of today’s energy transition.
🔒 National security matters. We can’t trade one energy dependence for another. As the world moves away from oil, there is a clear push to avoid relying solely on China for clean energy technologies. Building out U.S. supply chains, manufacturing and infrastructure is essential for both market resilience and national security.
🏙️ Local leadership counts. From EV chargers on lamp posts to city-led programs, all politics are local. But a shared frustration remains: it takes too long to build. Permitting reform — for renewable energy, transmission lines, water projects and more — is seen as essential. California’s executive action to streamline renewable approvals was cited as a step forward, but more comprehensive reform is needed nationwide.
📊 Tell the story – but also listen. Messaging is evolving: it’s not enough to talk about policy — we need to connect it to real-world benefits. Data-backed and human interest stories about good-paying jobs, savings for families and community benefits resonate most. Stakeholder dialogue is also key — meeting people where they are, acknowledging concerns about affordability and engaging in conversations rather than talking past each other.
🤖 AI can also be a climate solution. While we spend a lot of time talking about how AI is increasing energy demand and making our emissions reduction goals more challenging, it can also be an ally in the energy transition. From making power grids smarter and more efficient, to reducing airline emissions by predicting and avoiding contrails, the power and potential is there.
Closing Thought
Despite the challenges, the tone of Climate Week was marked by optimism and determination. Companies are sticking with their sustainability strategies, investments are flowing and technology is driving solutions faster than ever.