African-American leaders in the energy industry will discuss climate change and renewable energy today in Denver.
The American Association of Blacks in Energy, a 30-year-old organization that promotes African-American involvement in the energy industry, is holding a regional conference, Renewing Our Energy, through Friday.
Some of the topics addressed include, “Water: The Oil of the 21st Century” and “Energy Options for 21st Century.”
“If anyone needs to have stable and comprehensive energy policy in this country it’s African-Americans,” said Carolyn Green, first vice-chair of AABE board of directors.
African-American households at all income levels pay more for things like heating and lighting, she said.
“That disparity is even greater at the lowest end of the economic scale,” she said.
People in lower income brackets don’t have the money to spend on energy-efficient appliances or hybrid cars, said Frank Stewart, national president of AABE.
“You can’t take advantage of energy improvements,” he said, which means paying more for utilities.
While energy issues may seem broad, they have a direct effect on these communities, which is why it is important for African-Americans to be involved as well as informed, Green said.
One of the organization’s goals is to let African-American entrepreneurs know there is a place for them in the energy industry, Green said.
“While our focus is energy policy, we want to make sure that people making that policy represent the diversity of this country,” Green said. “We hope to show people that African-Americans can be a success in all aspects of the industry.”
The conference is being held at the Adam’s Mark Hotel in Denver, registration is $150 but scholarships are available. For more information call (303) 384-7576.
Staff writer Simona Gallegos can be reached at 303-954-1555 or at sgallegos@denverpost.com.
