The University of Pennsylvania is set to host its sixth annual Energy Week from February 23 to February 27, offering a platform for discussions and activities focused on climate and energy innovations.
Organized by the Kleinman Center for Energy Policy and the Vagelos Institute for Energy Science and Technology since 2019, this event features a series of workshops, tours, panels, and discussions. This year’s theme emphasizes the impact of artificial intelligence and data centers on the energy sector.
Cornelia Colijn, Executive Director of the Kleinman Center, noted that this year’s program is designed to “build on momentum from past years” by addressing timely topics. Colijn highlighted the increasing faculty research on energy transition and growing student interest, acknowledging the “urgent” nature of this transition.
The event will involve various partnerships across disciplines, including engineering, law, and arts, reflecting the interdisciplinary approach needed for energy solutions.
Nadine Gruhn, Managing Director of the Vagelos Institute, emphasized the inclusivity of Energy Week, which is designed for both energy-focused students and those new to the subject. “We all understand that energy is very tied to climate and sustainability,” Gruhn explained, highlighting the broader perspective the week provides on the Penn community’s role in the energy transition.
This year’s program includes unique additions, such as a film screening of “King Coal” and a “Science Café” focused on critical minerals. The latter will feature insights from Vagelos Professor Karen Goldberg and Chemistry Professor Eric Schelter.
On Wednesday, Heather Boushey, a Kleinman Center professor and Former Chief Economist to President Joe Biden’s Investing in America Cabinet, will lead a seminar on the economics of climate change.
Participants can also look forward to a Thursday tour of the new platinum LEED-certified Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology, showcasing “energy-efficient systems” in Penn’s new buildings.
The week concludes with Friday’s events, which include a tour at Penn Museum, a panel on Pennsylvania’s clean energy transition, and an open studio session at Fisher Fine Arts Library.
Monday’s events were postponed due to the University’s suspension of operations on February 23 because of winter weather.
Gruhn hopes participants will understand how energy solutions contribute to sustainability and climate mitigation. “If you look at the news, so much of what’s going on in geopolitics has some connection to energy,” Gruhn remarked, emphasizing Penn’s commitment to finding solutions.
Original Story at www.thedp.com