In its State of Climate Tech 2021 report, PwC noted that investment in climate technologies is accelerating at a breakneck pace – 210% growth year on year from 2013 through June 30, 2021, culminating in almost $84 billion of climate tech investment worldwide during the 12-month period ending June 30, 2021, with 67% of that investment coming from the United States. Innovation Is the Key to a Net-Zero CO2 Future But ultimately, innovation will be the key to the transformation to a net-zero CO2 energy system. It will take leadership from both the public and private sectors. Implementing the roadmap outlined in the IPCC report will not be easy or happen overnight.
The enormous cost and human toll of global warning can no longer be denied or should no longer be accepted. Despite – or perhaps because of – this urgency, I am optimistic about our ability to combat climate change. More than ever, we see the urgency to end fossil fuel use as the temperatures continue to increase upwards, weather patterns become more extreme, and wildfires become bigger and more severe. Each renewable megawatt I help permit, and more importantly, help get built, feels like a step in the right direction.
I have been working in the renewable energy industry for a decade and a half, helping developers build wind, solar, and battery storage projects and helping investors invest in these projects. As a climate advocate, Elaine uses her skills and experience as a lawyer to work toward a carbon neutral future. As a permitting lawyer, Elaine helps developers and investors permit and build renewable energy projects. Elaine Albrich is a Partner in Davis Wright Tremaine's Portland office.