Solar Development and Challenges for Communities in North Carolina

Curious about the hurdles facing solar energy in North Carolina? This event will dive into the complexities of solar development, including policy, community engagement, and technical challenges. Local experts will share their experiences in navigating these challenges, offering valuable insights into the future of solar energy in the region. Light refreshments will be provided.

This event is limited-capacity and in person only. Please register only if you can firmly commit to attending. If your plans change, please cancel your registration to allow others on the waitlist to attend.

This event is part of the ninth annual Energy Week at Duke (Nov. 11-15), organized by dozens of students from degree programs across Duke. Learn more about other Energy Week events that might interest you: energyweekatduke.org.

Featured Speakers:

Matt Abele is the executive director of NC Sustainable Energy Association where he helps to drive the internal and external strategies necessary to implement successful policy solutions designed to transform North Carolina’s energy market. He serves as the host and producer of the Squeaky Clean Energy Podcast – a production that has driven brand recognition and attention to the organization from across the country.  Prior to joining NCSEA, he worked with numerous national and regional clean energy non-profit organizations, helping to implement communications, marketing, and policy strategies. 

Jeff Hughes is the utilities commissioner for the North Carolina Utilities Commission. He graduated from Duke with a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering, going on to get his master of science in environmental engineering from UNC-Chapel Hill, studying water Resources economics and finance. He has worked as the public works director for Chatham County, an environmental finance specialist at RTI International, and as faculty at the UNC School of Government for 12 years. He is part of the National Association of Regulatory Commissioners, and is passionate about sustainability research, renewable energy finance, and community outreach. 

Host or Publisher Energy Week at Duke