Ken Alex, senior advisor to Gov. Jerry Brown and director of the Office of a Planning and Research, will deliver the morning keynote address for the “Unlocking Renewables: A Valley Summit,” Wednesday, Aug. 12 at Fresno State.

In his talk, Alex will examine the potential challenges and opportunities for the San Joaquin Valley’s future in the clean energy economy.

The free, public summit will be held from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in the North Gym, Room 118. (Commercial organizations may also participate by contacting organizers below for door fee details). 

A lunchtime chat will feature Sen. Anthony Cannella (21st District), Assemblyman Adam Gray (21st District) and Alexander Sherriffs, M.D., California Air Resources Board and San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District board member.

The event will bring together San Joaquin Valley legislators, state and local agencies and community stakeholders to convene with renewable energy companies and environmentalists to for the discussion.

The report “Unlocking Renewables: Exploring the Clean Energy Potential in the San Joaquin Valley,” will be released at the summit. The report examines the economic and development potential of a range of clean energy technologies in the San Joaquin Valley.

The summit also will feature discussions on the Valley’s clean energy potential, its electric transmission infrastructure needs and the outlook for bioenergy and renewable gas as a major resource for the region. Breakout sessions include a clean energy and incentives workshop for businesses and residents, and a workforce development workshop for those interested in a career in clean energy.

Agency leaders, regulators, utilities, colleges and university program officers, labor union representatives, rebate providers, Valley residents, local elected officials, environmental groups and clean energy technology professionals will participate in the discussions and answer questions. Attendees will learn about solar, wind, batteries, flywheels, energy efficiency and other clean energy solutions and programs that provide incentives for their development.

The summit is co-hosted by Fresno State and presented by CEERT, UPLIFT San Joaquin Valley, Environment California, and the Large Solar Association.

Additional details about the summit including registration information can be found at www.RenewablesInTheValley.org.

For more information, contact Rhonda Mills at 323.578.2912 or Rey Leon at 559.269.9563.