The Economics of Energy Transitions (I-WEST)

The Intermountain West Energy Sustainability & Transitions (I-WEST) project is focused on
delivering a regionally relevant technology roadmap to transition six U.S. states to a carbon neutral energy economy. I-WEST encompasses Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. The project is taking a place-based approach, which prioritizes the geographical attributes, economic landscape, and societal readiness of the region. Learn more online at www.iwest.org.

Why join this workshop?
The economics of energy transition is a critical factor for states within the Intermountain West. While there is potential for economic growth, depending on the state and its portfolio of energy transition projects, there will likely be tradeoffs. The magnitude of those tradeoffs and their potential impacts on communities will play a major role in whether or not an energy transition project moves forward. Understanding the economic aspects of a technology pathway, and energy transition overall, is key to developing a regional energy transition strategy.

This workshop will present perspectives from individuals working at state and local levels to
help communities adapt to the economic changes brought about by energy transition. The primary goal of the workshop will be to discuss how energy transition will affect economies in the Intermountain West states over the next 5, 10, and 15 years. Participants will provide their insights on the expected economic gains and tradeoffs of carbon neutrality, as well as possible mitigation strategies to address concerns. Specifically, the workshop will address:

• Economics of state-level and Sovereign Nation energy transitions
• Realized, potential, and anticipated impacts on communities and their concerns
• Economic advantages and disadvantages of cross-state/community collaborations
• Economic barriers to energy transition and potential mitigation strategies

The I-WEST team solicits input on these topics from a cross-section of regional stakeholders
with hands-on experience and working knowledge of the economics and economic impacts associated with energy transition. Input received will inform the I-WEST technology roadmap.

Workshop format
This workshop will kick off with a brief overview of the Intermountain West region, followed by panel discussions led by thought leaders actively involved in addressing economic issues related to energy transition. Active participation will be strongly encouraged!