AABE exists to serve as a resource for policy discussion of the economic, social and political impact of environmental and energy policies on African Americans and other minorities.

The 2024 AABE Midwest Summit programming includes:

Panel 1: Executive Fireside

In this panel, senior executives will discuss the impact of the energy transition on their organizations and the strategies they are implementing for a clean transition. Additionally, we will explore the unique aspects of the energy transition in the Midwest and identify model paths for others to follow. 

Panel 2: Midwest Energy Policy

This panel will examine the implementation of federal energy policy at state and local levels. It will also explore how Midwestern states have leveraged opportunities from the IIJA, IRA, and CHIPS and Science Act. Additionally, with elections around the corner, what will be the state of energy policy with a republican or democratic administration?

Panel 3: Energy Justice and Workforce Development

Reports indicate that the U.S. energy workforce must grow significantly to meet future demands. This panel will address equity and justice in the Midwest workforce, job creation for disinvested communities, and the readiness of the current culture to welcome a more diverse workforce.  

Panel 4: The Transition and Technology

This panel will discuss the various technologies that are crucial to energy transition, how they’re being implemented in the Midwest, and their impact on customers. Technologies such as AI, distributed energy resources, battery storage, Inverter Based Resources, Solar, Hydro, small modular reactor nuclear technology, and electric vehicle charging to name a few.