Monthly Gathering—October 2007
Overcoming “Fuelishness”
The 20th century was marked by rapid growth and an increase in prosperity throughout the world. But the past pales in comparison to the pace at which the 21st century is advancing. While populations are increasing, economies are developing and the world is consuming energy faster, one thing is clear: the era of easy oil is over. By 2020, some experts predict the world’s energy consumption will be 40% higher than today. Efficiency, improvements and conservation are part of the solution, but will not alone meet the need for more energy. As the price of energy continues to rise, the United States will be increasingly competing in the global market for limited energy resources. A viable solution is needed to ensure reliability and to stabilize prices.
For a few possible suggestions, join us this month with Jim Croce, CEO of the NextEnergy Center, a nonprofit corporation founded to enable the commercialization of energy technologies that positively contribute to economic competitiveness, energy security and the environment. Croce also serves on Wayne State University’s Engineering College Board of Visitors and its Electrical Engineering Industrial Advisory Council. He was inducted into the WSU Engineering Hall of Fame (2004) and received the TechTown Developer of the Year award (2005). A co-founder and a member of the board of directors of the Michigan Sustainable Energy Coalition, Croce received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering with honors from Wayne State University.
Page last updated: Sunday, February 15, 2009