Runh

Henry Fernandez, Chairman and CEO of MSCI Inc., shared compelling insights at a recent event hosted by the China Institute in America, emphasizing the critical role of U.S.-China cooperation in addressing global challenges, particularly climate change. Drawing from decades of engagement with China, his reflections underscored the mutual benefits and complexities of this relationship. He highlighted that collaboration between the world’s two largest emitters is essential for tackling climate change. With global efforts falling short of the Paris Agreement’s ambition to limit temperature rise to 1.5°C, the urgency for action has never been greater. Current commitments would only reduce emissions by 10%, far below the 42% scientists say is needed by 2030. Henry stressed that achieving meaningful progress requires sustained dialogue and coordinated efforts between the U.S. and China, whose combined influence shapes global climate strategies. Henry also highlighted the broader implications of U.S.-China engagement. Despite rising tensions and calls for economic decoupling, trade and investment between the nations remain deeply interconnected. Severing these ties, he warned, could have significant global consequences, affecting economies and efforts to address climate challenges. In a world facing complex geopolitical dynamics, his reflections emphasize the shared responsibility of the U.S. and China to prioritize cooperation, ensuring progress toward a sustainable and stable future. #USChinaRelations #ClimateChange #GlobalCooperation #Sustainability #EnergyTransition #ClimateAction #BilateralEngagement #Runh

The event at the China Institute in America?offered a timely and insightful discussion on the evolving relationship between the United States and China, particularly in the energy sector. Ambassador Robert Hormats, Managing Director of Tiedemann Advisors, shared his reflections on the transformative power of energy collaboration to address pressing global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development. Energy has long been a point of mutual interest, with China leading in renewable energy deployment and the U.S. excelling in innovation and technology. By combining these strengths, both nations have an unparalleled opportunity to advance clean energy technologies, improve energy efficiency, and modernize infrastructure. Joint initiatives in these areas are not only beneficial for the U.S. and China but also crucial for global progress toward a sustainable energy future. What stood out in the discussion was the emphasis on building trust through practical, impactful cooperation. While national policies often take center stage, partnerships at the regional and local levels—between cities, provinces, companies, and research institutions—can serve as powerful catalysts for progress. For instance, increasing exchanges in clean energy technology, scaling renewable infrastructure, and addressing grid challenges together can create pathways for deeper collaboration. The energy transition is not just about technology or economics; it is a shared responsibility that calls for mutual respect and understanding. #EnergyCollaboration #USChinaRelations #SustainableEnergy #GlobalPartnerships #ClimateAction #Runh

Energy is a cornerstone of U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific, as highlighted in a discussion with Wendy R. Sherman (Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State), Stephen E. Biegun (Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State), and Danny Russel (Vice President, International Security and Diplomacy at Asia Society Policy Institute). Their perspectives explored the intersection of energy security, diplomacy, and technological innovation in the region. Wendy emphasized the importance of resilient energy infrastructure in addressing climate challenges, particularly for Pacific Island nations. She highlighted U.S. initiatives like the Quad and AUKUS, which aim to foster clean energy transitions and build regional stability through enhanced collaboration. Stephen discussed the need for strategic investment in energy innovation and supply chain security for critical materials. He noted that energy partnerships play a crucial role in strengthening alliances and fostering trust, while also addressing global challenges like climate change. Daniel pointed to the growing demand among Southeast Asian nations to engage in renewable energy advancements. Many see U.S. leadership in energy technology as key to driving their economic growth and enhancing regional resilience. The discussion underscored that addressing energy security and climate challenges will require both domestic innovation and multilateral cooperation to ensure a sustainable future for the Indo-Pacific region. #EnergyTransition #ClimateAction #IndoPacific #RenewableEnergy #USLeadership #GlobalPartnerships #Runh

Jigar Shah, Director of Loan Programs Office | U.S. Department of Energy; Neil Chatterjee, Former Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; Eric Wesoff and Julian Spector of Canary Media Inc. led a compelling discussion on the future of the energy transition, tackling key themes like distributed energy resources (DERs), AI-driven electricity demand, and U.S. leadership in clean energy deployment. Jigar highlighted how virtual power plants and distributed technologies can unlock grid efficiency, reducing costs while meeting surging demand from AI, data centers, and electrification. He also emphasized the cultural shift required within utilities to embrace growth and innovation—a shift catalyzed by rising energy burdens and mounting pressure from stakeholders. Neil discussed the transformative impact of FERC Order 2222, which enables DERs like rooftop solar and EVs to compete in wholesale markets, reshaping how Americans generate and consume power while advancing decarbonization. Eric reflected on the unprecedented $1 trillion investment from the IRA, framing it as a chance for the U.S. to dominate clean energy manufacturing and export expertise globally. This conversation was a powerful reminder that collaboration across policy, innovation, and execution is key to solving the challenges of the energy transition. #EnergyTransition #DERs #VPPs #CleanEnergy #InflationReductionAct #FERC #GridModernization #ClimateWeekNYC #Runh

Tom Dillon, Senior Vice President & Head of Environment at The Pew Charitable Trusts, hosted a discussion with John Kerry, 68th Secretary of State, on addressing climate change. Secretary Kerry outlined the need to accelerate the deployment of existing technologies to meet the target of reducing emissions by 50% by 2030. He highlighted renewable energy, enhanced energy storage, geothermal advancements, and innovations in fusion and battery technologies as essential components of this effort. He emphasized that the pace of implementation must increase to keep up with the urgency of the climate crisis. Kerry stressed the importance of accountability in political leadership and public policy to drive meaningful progress. He highlighted Germany’s rapid renewable energy deployment, which includes achieving over 50% renewable energy in its energy mix through significant investments in wind and solar, particularly offshore wind in the North Sea, as a model and stressed the importance of international cooperation. Key barriers include permitting delays and the need for private sector investment, with $4.5 trillion annually required to reach net zero by 2050. Kerry called for streamlined processes and collaboration across sectors. Despite the challenges, Kerry expressed optimism, citing the resilience and creativity of people to drive progress and innovation. He underscored the urgent need for action to transition to a sustainable energy future. #GlobalPartnerships #Sustainability #ClimateChange #PrivateSectorInvestment #ClimateWeekNYC #Runh

Julian Spector of Canary Media Inc.?introduced a dynamic panel on equity-centered climate solutions that prioritize community benefits. Moderated by?Maria Gallucci, the discussion brought together Dr.?Cecilia Martinez, Chief of Environmental and Climate Justice at the Bezos Earth Fund; Dana Clare Redden, Founder of Solar Stewards; and Alex Honnold, Founder of the Honnold Foundation. Cecilia?emphasized the need to address historical harms while ensuring climate initiatives genuinely reflect and serve community values. She highlighted how integrating equity into climate solutions can drive systemic change and repair past injustices.?Dana?shared how Solar Stewards connects corporations with community solar projects through social renewable energy credits, funding initiatives like workforce training, mental health services, and STEM education in underserved communities. She emphasized the role of economic inclusion in creating generational wealth and uplifting marginalized groups.?Alex?described the grassroots approach of the Honnold Foundation, which trusts communities to lead and execute impactful solar projects. He stressed the importance of unrestricted funding and acting with urgency to expand energy access and meet local needs. The panel highlighted the urgency of equitable climate action, showcasing how partnerships that empower communities can address systemic barriers and create lasting change. Their discussion underscored the transformative potential of community-led solutions in tackling climate challenges while delivering real benefits to those most affected. #EnergyTransition #ClimateJustice #CommunitySolar #Philanthropy #RenewableEnergy #ClimateWeekNYC #Runh

Woochong Um, CEO of The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), recently spoke with Foreign Policy’s Andrew Sollinger at the FP Energy Forum, sharing a profound perspective on mobilizing capital to support a sustainable, resilient transition to net zero. Reflecting on his transition from development finance at the Asian Development Bank to the Global Energy Alliance, Woochong discussed how essential private capital is to global climate efforts. While multilateral development banks and philanthropies play pivotal roles, private sector funding remains largely concentrated in developed markets, leaving significant investment gaps in developing regions where energy access is most urgently needed. Woochong illustrated the risks: without access to renewable solutions, millions of people—particularly in Africa, where 300-600 million remain without electricity—might turn to fossil fuels, endangering global climate progress. Highlighting efforts to bridge this gap, Woochong described several strategic projects the Alliance is championing. In India, for instance, they’ve navigated complex regulatory challenges to secure approval for energy storage integration, opening up new opportunities for battery storage deployment. Meanwhile, they’re working with the ADB and the Indonesian government to accelerate the early retirement of coal plants, aligning these transitions with long-term sustainability goals. Woochong expressed cautious optimism, noting the private sector’s growing focus on solutions rather than problems. #ClimateAction #EnergyTransition #SustainableDevelopment #PrivateCapital #Mission300 #ClimateWeekNYC #Runh

Chanaka Wickramasuriya, Chief of Party of the USAID-funded Sri Lanka Energy Program, joined Foreign Policy’s Allison Carlson to discuss critical challenges and strategies for facilitating the energy transition in low and middle-income countries. Key insights emerged on the role of capital, the need for grid stability, and the impact of global policies on developing nations. Chanaka emphasized that while these countries contribute less to global emissions, many still face high carbon-intensity in their grids, a problem exacerbated by rising energy demand and anticipated growth in electric vehicle adoption. The conversation highlighted the dual necessity of decarbonizing these grids and ensuring these nations aren’t left vulnerable to economic instability from carbon tariffs and trade restrictions. For countries like Sri Lanka, policies like tariff reform and legislative changes to secure the sector’s financial viability are crucial in reducing investor risk. Additionally, enhancing local technical expertise can help these countries manage increasingly complex grids more effectively. He emphasized partnerships with multilateral organizations like USAID, ADB, and the World Bank as essential for creating sustainable, cost-effective energy solutions. Recent political shifts in Sri Lanka show promise, with a renewed focus on good governance, energy security, and openness to international capital. #EnergyTransition #RenewableEnergy #DevelopingMarkets #Investment #SustainableGrowth #USAID #SriLanka #ClimateWeekNYC #Runh

At the Foreign Policy Energy Forum during UNGA79, Maggie Lake led an in-depth discussion with John Kotek from Nuclear Energy Institute, Eric Haxthausen from U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), and Ontario’s Energy and Electrification | énergie et de l’électrification Minister Stephen Lecce on aligning financing with the rapid growth in energy demand and infrastructure needs. John highlighted the U.S. demand for new generation capacity, driven by sectors like AI and transportation. Nuclear energy is essential to meet these needs, but “first-of-a-kind” challenges mean scalable financing and strong federal and state support are critical. Eric outlined USTDA’s work in emerging economies, funding groundwork for clean energy projects like SMRs in Romania and Indonesia. By supporting environmental and social assessments, USTDA is preparing these projects to secure investment and succeed. Minister Lecce shared Ontario’s approach, emphasizing regulatory agility and community engagement to keep projects on track and within budget. Ontario’s transition from coal to nuclear and renewables underscores the importance of aligning policy with financing for sustainable growth. The forum emphasized the importance of cohesive policy, investment readiness, and community-centered approaches for a resilient, secure energy future. #UNGA79 #EnergyTransition #NuclearEnergy #CleanEnergy #InfrastructureFinance #OntarioEnergy #USTDA #ClimateWeekNYC #Runh

At the Foreign Policy Energy Forum @ UNGA79, Jason Grumet, CEO of the American Clean Power Association (ACP), joined veteran journalist Maggie Lake to discuss the urgent need to modernize the U.S. power grid. As recent hurricanes expose vulnerabilities, Jason pointed to a fragmented grid structure across ten regions, which hampers power sharing, threatens national security, and slows clean energy progress. New bipartisan legislation from Senators Barrasso and Manchin marks a significant step toward enhancing energy infrastructure. Jason underscored that while the Inflation Reduction Act has spurred rapid growth—leading to a record 78% of new U.S. power capacity from renewables last year—the nation must at least triple the deployment rate to meet climate targets effectively. Jason also addressed the role of international cooperation, particularly with China, in achieving these goals. Over the past two decades, China has become a global leader in renewable manufacturing by leveraging innovations from other countries, including the U.S. The current push for U.S.-based clean energy manufacturing comes with a need to strategically balance independence with necessary partnerships. As the clean energy transition continues, Jason emphasized the importance of fostering both clean and traditional energy resources to ensure a stable and sustainable shift. In a world increasingly defined by environmental imperatives, the builders of the energy future—across all sectors—are poised to lead this transformation. #UNGA79 #CleanEnergyTransition #ClimateAction #EnergyInfrastructure #AmericanCleanPower #ClimateWeekNYC #Runh