Tech for a Cleaner Future

“One of the most significant takeaways from my trip is the significant number of jobs that will be created by the transitions to clean energy and transportation electrification,” says Alessandra Carreon. (PradeepGaurs/Shutterstock.com)

Alessandra Carreon, a licensed chemical engineer and entrepreneur, feels fortunate to have collaborated with organizations that share her passion for advancing clean energy transitions and ensuring the equitable adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).

As a commissioner on the Michigan Public Service Commission, she advocates for a circular battery economy, where used batteries are collected, treated, and repurposed rather than discarded when they lose efficiency.

As part of the U.S. Speaker Program by the Department of State, Carreon recently visited Chennai, Kolkata and New Delhi, where she engaged with students, researchers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, activists, government representatives and journalists. Her discussions encompassed clean energy and electric transportation, women in STEM and the role of science and technology in addressing human health, climate change and clean energy.

Excerpts from an interview.

What sparked your interest in climate change and sustainability?

I have had a lifelong interest in environmental topics and sustainability. This interest began when I observed the impact of development on the environment in my parents’ home countries, the Philippines and Italy. Living in the United States further deepened my awareness of sustainability, recycling and environmental protection through my school curriculum.

As a commissioner for the Michigan Public Service Commission, what are your top priorities?

At the Public Service Commission, our mission is to ensure safe, reliable and affordable energy and telecommunications services for the people of Michigan. Michigan’s new clean energy laws set goals for the future: by 2030, the state will generate 50 percent of its energy from renewable sources and 60 percent by 2035. By 2040, all of Michigan’s energy will come from clean sources. It is our responsibility to ensure this transition, focusing on public well-being while delivering the climate benefits intended by the law.

What strategies have you found most effective in promoting affordable and accessible electric vehicle adoption and charging?

There are several effective strategies and policies in the United States, both at the national and state levels. Many incentives, credits and rebates make electric vehicles more affordable. There is also a strong effort to ensure the availability of chargers across the country, along national highway corridors and within local communities. Additionally, as an alternative to personal car ownership, excellent EV ride-sharing options are available for shared mobility, similar to those I saw here in India.

Alessandra Carreon (center), a licensed chemical engineer and entrepreneur, at the American Center in Kolkata as part of the U.S. Speaker Program by the Department of State. (Photograph by Avijit Bhattacharya)

In your opinion, what policies are essential for accelerating the global transition to a circular battery economy?

To promote a circular battery economy, we need critical policies that ensure the safe and environmentally sound handling of high-voltage EV batteries throughout their life cycle. This approach will prevent these batteries from becoming public safety hazards. Policies should also address the extraction of minerals and battery production to mitigate negative environmental or social impacts while building value for regional and local economies. By considering the full battery value chain, we can ensure safe and environmentally sound battery management and production.

What is your perspective on the current status and future prospects of the clean energy transition and electric vehicle adoption in India?

During my trip to India, I observed that both India and the United States are on the verge of scaling up their transitions to clean energy and transportation electrification. However, there are some differences between the two countries, particularly in electric vehicle adoption. For instance, the United States doesn’t have the two- and three-wheeler market that is common and predominant in India.

There are many ways to approach these transitions that are market- and geography-specific. Despite these differences, both countries share similarities, such as the need to develop the workforce and prioritize pollution elimination and sustainability.

How do you see the role of women in STEM, particularly in the field of social entrepreneurship?

We need to encourage more women to participate in STEM fields, not only in educational programs but also in their careers. As we transition to clean energy and transportation electrification, new business models are necessary to ensure that these technologies benefit everyone, not just companies or private interests. By involving more women in STEM and changing business models to serve society, we can make the transition to clean energy and EVs more effective and sustainable.

What were your key takeaways from your engagements in India?

One of the most significant takeaways from my trip is the significant number of jobs that will be created by the transitions to clean energy and transportation electrification. This presents a promising opportunity to cultivate leaders for a new paradigm for energy and transportation, both in India and in the United States. By collaborating, we can learn from the past and support future generations.

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