In the Midwest, many cities and states are debating and passing new targets for clean energy and decarbonization. In order to reduce energy consumption and subsequent emissions, we need to have an honest conversation about how to reach these goals, key issues to consider and potential programs and policies that address them. No matter your perspective on decarbonization, the reality is we can only achieve reductions with energy efficiency as a key component of any plan. In this MEEA members-only workshop series, we will discuss existing buildings, industrial and manufacturing and transportation sectors – three segments with the largest energy consumption and carbon intensity. The goal of each session is to identify current hurdles and discuss potential policies and programs that can achieve longstanding change while considering equity and climate within the Midwest.
We want to hear from our members on what considerations are needed as we work towards decarbonization goals. These meetings will be active and audience-driven, and so, to manage meeting size, we are asking MEEA members to have one staff member present for all four meetings, with one additional staff member brought in for each sector-specific conversation.
Past Events: Workshop 1
Current Status of Energy Consumption in Midwest – Regional Data for Future Conversations
Thursday, August 12, 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Discussion Lead: Stacey Paradis, MEEA Executive Director
In this first meeting, MEEA will provide background on the Midwest energy landscape to establish a baseline for the workshop series. This information, including metrics, current policies and considerations, is key to the following three conversations.
If you were unable to join this first session and would like to learn more, please email membership@mwalliance.org.
Workshop 2
Buildings
Thursday, August 26, 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Discussion Lead: Chris Burgess, MEEA Buildings Director
In this workshop, we will look at the landscape of existing buildings in the Midwest as well as the impact of new building policies and then discuss challenges and opportunities that lie within this sector. We will have an active discussion with the audience, presenting barriers, opportunities or areas where deeper consideration is needed.
If you were unable to join the second session and would like to learn more, please email membership@mwalliance.org.
Workshop 3
Industrial/Commercial
Tuesday, September 21, 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Discussion Lead: Nick Dreher, MEEA Policy Director
In this workshop, attendees will discuss the impact of industrial and manufacturing sectors throughout the region. Through an engaging conversation and real-time feedback, we will work through challenges and identify opportunities to reduce consumption.
If you were unable to join the third session and would like to learn more, please email membership@mwalliance.org.
Workshop 4
Transportation
Thursday, October 21, 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Discussion Lead: Molly Graham, MEEA Programs Director
For our final workshop, we will focus on the transportation sector. MEEA members will discuss the current impact of various modes of transportation, existing challenges and areas of potential energy savings in the future.
If you were unable to join the fourth session and would like to learn more, please email membership@mwalliance.org.