Spring 2024 AAG Energy and Environment Specialty Group Speaker Series

[Tom Ptak]

Empowering Equity: Navigating the Geographical Landscape of Energy Justice 

Dr. Tony Reames (University of Michigan)

Thursday, February 8, 3PM ET

Click here to register

 

Abstract: 

This talk explores the intricate intersection of place and energy justice, shedding light on the geographical disparities that exist in access to and distribution of energy resources. Reames will discuss how diverse factors, including socio-economic conditions, policy landscapes, and environmental characteristics contribute to energy inequities. The talk underscores the importance of addressing and understanding place in the pursuit of energy justice, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies that empower marginalized communities and promote energy justice on a spatial scale.

Dr. Tony Reames is the Tishman Professor of Environmental Justice and Associate Professor of Environment and Sustainability at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability. He is the Director of the University's Sustainability Clinic in Detroit. At the University of Michigan he founded the Urban Energy Justice Lab and Energy Equity Project. Reames' research investigates fair and equitable access to affordable, reliable, clean energy, and explores the production and persistence of energy disparities across race, class, and place.  Reames was a presidential appointee in the Biden-Harris Administration serving at the U.S. Department of Energy as the Deputy Director for Energy Justice. He established the first-ever Office of Energy Justice Policy and Analysis and led development and implementation of the President's Justice40 Initiative. Reames was also Principal Deputy Director for State and Community Energy Programs managing and deploying $16B in clean energy program funding to state, local, and tribal governments and community based organizations. Reames holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration from University of Kansas, a Master of Engineering Management from Kansas State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University.

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 Questions? Contact Elena Louder at elo...@arizona.edu