The University of Hawaiʻi Better Tomorrow Speaker Series is hosting a public conversation to examine the future of clean energy in Hawaiʻi and California. The free event, “Pacific Rising: How California and Hawaiʻi Can Lead the Clean Energy Revolution,” will feature David Hochschild, chair of the California Energy Commission and is set for Thursday, August 7, at 6:30 p.m., in the Bishop Ballroom at AC Hotel Honolulu.
“We are so pleased to welcome David Hochschild to Oʻahu. UH is deeply involved in climate and energy research, from alternative fuels to grid integration to storage, and we look forward to strengthening our partnerships with institutions in California,” said Chip Fletcher, dean of UH Mānoa’s School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology.
Two states, one goal
As federal support for clean energy initiatives faces uncertainty under the current administration, state leadership has become increasingly vital. Hawaiʻi made history as the first state to set a 100% renewable energy target, while California is now making unprecedented investments toward achieving the same goal.
“We look forward to discussing with Chair Hochschild how our states can work together to sustain the clean energy revolution, even as the feds shift into reverse,” said Chris Benjamin, chair and co-founder of Climate Hawaiʻi, a co-sponsor of the event.
Energy expertise
Hochschild leads the California Energy Commission, an $8.5 billion agency responsible for energy planning and policy in the world’s fourth-largest economy. With more than 20 years of experience in energy transformation, he brings extensive expertise to the clean energy transition.
His leadership has earned numerous accolades, including the Sierra Club’s Trailblazer Award, the American Lung Association’s Clean Air Hero Award, and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Million Solar Roof True Champion Award. In 2024, he was named the American Energy Society’s Person of the Year.
Climate Hawaiʻi serves as the lead event sponsor, with co-sponsorship from the Hawaiʻi State Energy Office, Scholars Strategy Network and AC Hotel Honolulu.
The Better Tomorrow Speaker Series is a collaborative initiative of UH Mānoa, the Learning Coalition, and the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation, bringing together thought leaders to address pressing issues facing our communities.
