As we race toward a low-carbon future, there’s growing concern that the transition may exacerbate existing inequities, whether it’s energy affordability, access to EVs and solar, or job dislocation in fossil-dependent communities. This panel will focus on how to ensure a just and inclusive energy transition, especially for marginalized communities.

Capital is at the center of the energy transition, shaping how quickly new technologies scale. This panel will explore the expanding role of green bonds and sustainable finance instruments, the balance between private and public capital in driving investment, and how corporates are structuring finance to decarbonize while delivering shareholder value.

Shoshannah Lenski is the inaugural Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU). She brings nearly 20 years of leadership in sustainability, strategy and utility operations — most recently as Associate Director of the Center for Sustainable Systems at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability. Earlier, she held executive roles at DTE Energy (including Director of Gas Strategy and Infrastructure Renewal Operations) and worked as a consultant at the Boston Consulting Group.

Lenski holds a B.A. summa cum laude from Cornell University, where she wrote her honors thesis on “Corporate Environmental Strategy and Financial Performance.” She earned an M.S. in Sustainable Systems from the University of Michigan in 2011.

Deeply rooted in the Ann Arbor community, she served six years on the city’s Ann Arbor Energy Commission, including as chair. Under her leadership, the SEU will advance the city’s vision for a resilient, 100 % renewable-powered local energy system.

Served outside Blau Colloquium.

With EV adoption, heat pump installations, and AI-driven load growth all accelerating, the U.S. electric grid is under unprecedented stress. This panel will explore how the grid must evolve, from infrastructure upgrades and distributed energy resources to virtual power plants and real-time demand response, to meet this moment.

Curious about energy internships, interviews, or the industry? Come ask our panelists about their experiences! (Panelists TBA)

The evolution going on in energy has changed the landscape and thus the job opportunities for today’s students. We will cover the latest developments in various aspects of the energy transition, including winners and losers, and the impacts of shifting winds within the sector.

Please join David Pruner to hear his thoughts on the Future of the Energy Transition.