Clean energy sector job creation and economic development in rural communities presents an opportunity and a challenge for policymakers in the United States and India alike. With lower population density and access to infrastructure, program, and job opportunities, rural communities need strategic and targeted outreach to suit their priorities and economies. In this workshop, join U.S. thought leaders and State Energy Officials in unpacking the policy, program, and stakeholder engagement strategies that guide efforts to promote clean energy access and job creation in rural and remote areas. The discussion will highlight lessons learned and best practices that may inform India’s ongoing clean energy transition.

This workshop is being organized as part of a partnership among the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the Association of Renewable Energy Agencies of States (AREAS), and NASEO, with the goal of promoting knowledge exchange among U.S. and Indian subnational energy policymakers. It is supported by the SED Fund. The intended audience for this workshop includes members of AREAS, India’s State Nodal Agencies, and members of NASEO, the governor-designated State and Territory Energy Offices in the United States. To register, please click here. 

AGENDA

1. Setting the Scene 
   Moderator: Neelima Jain, Deputy Director and Senior Fellow, Wadhwani Chair, Center for Strategic and International Studies
   Opening Remarks: Sh. Jeevan Kumar Jethani, Executive Director, Association of Renewable Energy Agencies of States
   U.S National Perspectives: The State of Play in Rural Energy Access in the United States: Mary Shoemaker, State Policy Manager, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy 
    
2. Framing the Discussion
   Moderator: Sandy Fazeli, Senior Managing Director, National Association of State Energy Officials
   U.S. State Case Studies: Mississippi and Minnesota 
   Dr. Sumesh Arora, Director, Energy and Natural Resources Division, Mississippi Development Authority
   John Vaughn, Executive Director, Rural Renewable Energy Alliance
    
3. Questions, Discussion, and Wrap-Up