AUSTIN – Experts representing varying interests and perspectives have gathered on The University of Texas at Austin campus to kick off UT Energy Week, an annual conference designed to explore vital energy issues facing society.
The conference provides a platform for experts from academia, industry, government and regulatory agencies, and nonprofit organizations to share insights on the latest trends and technologies, said Thomas F. Edgar, director of the Energy Institute, a co-host of the event.
“The program for this year’s conference covers a wide range of energy sources, reflecting the need to have a balanced energy portfolio,” Edgar said.
UT Energy Week is free for students, faculty members and staffers at UT Austin, but registration is required. Complimentary admission is available for credentialed news media. Use the comp code UTEW-18-press.
On Tuesday, Jan. 30, experts will examine challenges facing the integration of ridesharing, self-driving cars and vehicle electrification into existing transportation infrastructure. Another panel will discuss the market dynamics behind a tipping point for mass adoption of electric vehicles.
On Wednesday, Jan. 31, panelists will examine natural gas’ future as a global commodity, innovation in the oil and gas industry, and evolving energy geopolitics.
For more, read the full conference program or register.
In addition to the Energy Institute, UT Energy week is hosted by the KBH Center for Energy, Law & Business, and two student-run organizations – the Longhorn Energy Club and the Texas Journal of Oil, Gas, and Energy Law – along with support from schools and colleges across the UT Austin campus engaged in energy-related research.
“UT Energy Week gives students an opportunity to learn from the real-world experiences of true energy experts,” said John Adamo, president of the Longhorn Energy Club. “It also allows students to showcase their research and obtain valuable feedback on their work.”
The conference, now in its fourth year, is held in the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center at 2110 San Jacinto Blvd., across the street from Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium.
UT Energy Week is free for students, faculty members and staffers at UT Austin, but registration is required.
UT Energy Week also features a student research poster contest and several affiliated events, including two competitions aimed at young energy entrepreneurs hosted by Energy Olympiad.
