Agenda

2025 Maryland Clean Energy Summit Agenda

This year’s event will feature two full days of programming covering topics from investing in infrastructure to reducing costs for consumers and more! View the full schedule of events to see what is in store for the 2025 Maryland Clean Energy Summit.

9:30am – 11:00am

Location: Conference Center Lobby

Event Check-in & Networking

Check-in and connect with industry leaders and legislators.

11:00am – 12:30pm

Location: General Vessey Ballroom

Summit Kickoff: Welcome, Guest Speaker, Tech Showcase

Join us for the official kickoff of the 2025 Maryland Clean Energy Summit! Hear welcoming remarks from Maryland Clean Energy Center Executive Director Kathy Magruder and a special guest, Maryland Public Service Commission Chairman Fred Hoover. Afterward, get an exclusive look at the future of clean energy with short presentations from Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator startups.

Speakers:

U.S. House of Representatives (MD-02)

Congressman Johnny “Johnny O” Olszewski, Jr. proudly represents Maryland’s 2nd District, which includes major portions of Baltimore County, Carroll County, and parts of Baltimore City.

A lifelong Marylander who believes in the power of public service, Olszewski is a former public-school teacher, has prior service in the Maryland House of Delegates, and was twice elected as Baltimore County Executive, where he led the state’s third-largest jurisdiction and managed a $5 billion government enterprise.

In the state legislature, Olszewski became the youngest person ever elected Chairman of the Baltimore County House Delegation. A staunch advocate for working families, Olszewski led efforts to provide earned sick leave, raise the minimum wage, and served as a defining vote to secure marriage equality in the State of Maryland.
As County Executive, Olszewski worked to build a better Baltimore County, committing record funding for public education and providing near-universal free community college for county residents. Olszewski made open, transparent, and accountable government a signature of his administration, creating the county’s first public campaign finance system, establishing the county’s first Office of the Inspector General, and launching a signature series of annual Budget Town Hall meetings.

During his tenure, he also led the charge that lead to enactment of bipartisan police reform; passage of bipartisan gun safety legislation; the establishment of the County’s first dedicated Department of Housing and Community Development; the launching of Baltimore County’s first free, fixed-route public transportation service; all the while making record investments in public parks and open space. Olszewski also led widely-praised local government responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

A product of public schools and a first-generation college graduate, Olszewski holds a bachelor’s degree from Goucher College, a master’s degree from George Washington University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland Baltimore County.

Olszewski lives in eastern Baltimore County with his wife, Marisa, his daughter, Daria, and their rescue dog, Yachty.

Chair, Maryland Public Service Commission

Frederick H. Hoover was appointed Chair of the Maryland Public Service Commission by Governor Wes Moore for a five-year term beginning on July 1, 2023.

He most recently served as Assistant People’s Counsel in the Maryland Office of People’s Counsel, representing residential consumers of public utilities, retail energy suppliers and other entities before the Maryland Public Service Commission, courts and federal agencies.

Chair Hoover served for more than seven years as director of the Maryland Energy Administration, responsible for coordinating energy policy for the state of Maryland. He subsequently held positions as director of both MEA’s Division of Energy Programs and Division of Renewable Energy. He is a former senior director of the National Association of State Energy Officials, where he directed the electricity policy program including the fuel and grid aspects of both transmission and distribution networks including modernization, renewable energy, and energy efficiency.

Chair Hoover was a founding board member of the Maryland League of Conservation Voters, an organization dedicated to holding elected officials at the legislative and executive level accountable for environmental issues. He was a member of the Maryland Cybersecurity Council.

He serves on the Board of Directors for the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and is a member of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Committee on Consumers and the Public Interest and the Committee on Electricity. He was recently appointed to NARUC’s Washington Actions Program, the group that represents NARUC’s interests before federal executive and legislative entities.

A resident of Annapolis, Maryland, Chair Hoover earned his law degree from the University of Baltimore, and a bachelor’s degree from Mount Saint Mary’s University. He also completed Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government Executive Education Program in Economics and Environment.

Executive Director, Maryland Clean Energy Center

Throughout her career Ms. Magruder has been focused on the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development.

As Executive Director of the Maryland Clean Energy Center, since 2009, Ms. Magruder manages the statewide green bank working to advance the commercialization and adoption of clean energy products, services, and technologies in Maryland. She collaborates with multiple state and federal agencies, along with utility and private sector partners, to implement climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives. In this role she operates financing programs, administers grants, engages in business development initiatives, oversees outreach, and monitors associated public policy activity.

Previously, as Chief of Staff at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute, Ms. Magruder was responsible for strategic planning, staff management and external relations. During appointment as the Director of Resource Based Industries at the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (Commerce), she focused on sustaining the agriculture, forestry, mining, fisheries and maritime industry sectors. Working in key positions with various municipalities, Ms. Magruder led local and regional agribusiness, cultural preservation, and ecotourism initiatives to benefit communities on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Kathy is a member of the American Green Bank Coalition and currently serves as co-chair of the Association for University Research Parks Climate Technology & Building Caucus. She holds seats on the Maryland Power Plant Research Program Advisory Committee, the Maryland Industrial Partnerships Advisory Board , the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Climate, Energy & Environment Policy Committee and is appointed to the Governor’s Economic Competitiveness Sub-cabinet for Maryland.

12:30pm – 1:45pm

Location: Chesapeake Ballroom

Buffet Luncheon

Enjoy a buffet luncheon featuring locally sourced dishes cultivated through sustainable practices.

Speakers:

1:30pm – 4:00pm

Location: Room 2110

MEIA Climate Tech Exchange

Join the Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator (MEIA) on October 14 for the 2025 Climate Tech Exchange. This event, part of the summit’s day-one programming, brings together climate tech leaders, innovators, and financiers to explore current MEIA startups and the state of climate tech in Maryland. The event will be followed by a networking reception.

Speakers:

Director of Economic Development Special Projects, Office of the Montgomery County Executive

As Director of Economic Development Special Projects, Judy Costello works for Montgomery County, Maryland’s County Executive on a variety of business growth, retention, international and domestic attraction activities. This includes working with businesses of varied sizes and industry sectors to funding, facility space, promotion, technical advice and referrals, and other support. Before joining Montgomery County, she worked for BioHealth Innovation (BHI), a Washington, DC area nonprofit focused on growing the biohealth industry in the region, as Managing Director of Economic Development. Prior to joining BHI, she served as Director of the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of BioHealth and Life Sciences and as Deputy Director of the department’s BioMaryland Center. In these positions, she worked to grow the state’s biohealth cluster by supporting industry recruitment and retention, commercialization, workforce, non-dilutive and dilutive fundraising, international soft landing, partnership, and promotion activities.

Judy previously managed the nonprofit Business Alliance for Innovation and Entrepreneurship organizing venture pitch forums, entrepreneur bootcamps, technology transfer showcases, educational seminars, and other programs connecting entrepreneurs, faculty innovators, students, and industry leaders in Maryland, DC and Virginia with each other and with those providing funding and other resources to young companies. Before serving as Executive Director of the Business Alliance, Costello held positions in financial services marketing, economic development, and university public relations in New York City, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Judy is a graduate of Georgetown University, and holds a MBA from Loyola University in Maryland. Born in Washington, DC, she grew up on a farm in Western Pennsylvania, and has lived in Montgomery County, Maryland supporting entrepreneurs and other growing companies in the region since the mid-1980s.

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Location: Room 2116

Roundtable I: Balancing Energy & Economic Development

As Maryland experiences increasing energy demand, how do we ensure reliable power while attracting and retaining businesses in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and data centers that power it? AI may be powering a new era of innovation — from climate modeling to carbon capturing — but it comes with a steep environmental price. Join industry leaders as they explore strategies for balancing economic growth with energy infrastructure needs.

Speakers:

Executive Director, MD Economic Development Corp.

J. Thomas Sadowski Jr. was appointed as the vice chancellor for economic development by Chancellor Emeritus Robert L. Caret in 2016. Sadowski is the first person to serve in this role, which was created to enable the system to focus its expertise, programs, and resources even more sharply and strategically on the state’s economic development priorities.

Sadowski mobilizes the USM’s support for developing key Maryland industry and workforce clusters, and serves as the USM’s senior representative on university-industry-government collaborations statewide. He is the system’s primary liaison to the state in support of recruiting companies and retaining and growing existing companies. His role at USM is focused on venture creation, tech commercialization, industry and government partnerships, and workforce development.

Prior to joining the USM, Sadowski served as the president and CEO of the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore (2008 – 2016), where he conducted strategic marketing and sales missions to major U.S. markets, focused on growing and attracting companies to the region, and used federal and state grant dollars to create programs supporting innovation, commercialization, and entrepreneurship. He also served as EAGB’s executive vice president from 2006 to 2008.

Sadowski also served as executive director of the Harford County Office of Economic Development (1999 – 2006) and as the business development director for the Baltimore County Department of Economic Development (1989 to 1999).

Sadowski is very active in the community, serving on the Baltimore Metropolitan Council Board of Directors, BioHealth Innovation Board of Directors, Cyber Maryland Advisory Board, and UMBC’s Public Policy Advisory Board. He is also past president of the Maryland Economic Development Association.

He has received several honors, including the 2014 “William Donald Schaefer Industrialist of the Year” award from the Baltimore Museum of Industry, and being recognized by The Daily Record as a “Most Admired CEO” in 2015, and an “Influential Marylander” in 2011.

Sadowski earned his bachelor’s degree in political science, with a certificate in public administration and policy, from UMBC in 1989.

CEO, Apexx Adams

Dr. Masica D. Jordan Alston is a nationally recognized leader in clean energy, workforce development, and social justice. Her ability to design innovative solutions for removing systemic barriers has positioned her as a trailblazer in creating equitable opportunities for underserved communities, particularly justice-impacted individuals and those in recovery.

In 2018, Dr. Jordan Alston provided expert testimony to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) on removing barriers for individuals recovering from substance use disorders to access employment and build sustainable futures. Her insights influenced national discussions on workforce inclusion for people in recovery. In 2020, SAMHSA recognized her as one of the top 10% of innovators in recovery in America for developing programs and products that empower people in recovery to reenter the workforce.

Dr. Jordan Alston is also the co-founder of Black Wall Street AVL, a nationally acclaimed initiative that supports minority entrepreneurs, including justice-impacted individuals. In 2022, she received a national award from the Truist Foundation for her transformative work, which included leading a Black Wall Street cohort of returning citizens who collectively earned over $1 million in revenue within one year. By combining entrepreneurship training with mentorship, she has helped hundreds of underserved individuals achieve sustainable success, driving economic growth in marginalized communities.

As CEO of Apexx Adams Transportation and Clean Energy, LLC, she expanded these principles into the clean energy sector, developing a nationally recognized EV Franchising Model. Her programs provide BIPOC entrepreneurs with the tools and opportunities to thrive in a sector where women and people of color represent less than 3% of the workforce.

Dr. Jordan Alston’s Clean Energy Workforce Navigator Program has trained nearly 1,000 individuals, focusing on underrepresented communities, justice-impacted populations and those in recovery, equipping them with skills to succeed in clean energy entrepreneurship. Her leadership has influenced major initiatives and she launched Maryland’s first Cybersecurity in Clean Energy Registered Apprenticeship Program to increase diversity in energy-related technology careers.

Her impact extends to key advisory roles, including the Maryland Clean Energy Center Advisory Council, the Climate Equity Action Team, and the D.C. Public Service Commission’s Equity Advisory Working Group, where she advocates for equitable clean energy policies and workforce inclusion.

Dr. Jordan Alston’s work has been featured in Forbes, Time Magazine, The Washington Informer, CNN, Roland Martin’s platform, and FOX Media. A 2024 TEDx Speaker, she inspires audiences with her vision for clean energy as a tool for economic and social transformation.

Through her innovative programs, entrepreneurial expertise, and commitment to equity, Dr. Jordan Alston bridges recovery, workforce development, and clean energy, empowering marginalized communities to build sustainable futures.

State Director, Land and Liberty Coalition

Adam Dubitsky is a state and local government relations and policy communications professional with over 25 years’ experience enabling clients to communicate effectively, influence decision-makers, and expand markets. He’s worked with a wide range of clients including trade associations, global law firms, Fortune 50’s, start-ups, and candidates. Before returning to the private sector in 2019, Adam served as Communications Director and Spokesman for Larry Hogan’s 2014 gubernatorial campaign, then as the Governor’s Policy Director.

Adam’s current work includes serving as State Director of the Maryland Land & Liberty Coalition, a project of the 501c3 Conservative Energy Network. The Land & Liberty Coalition advocates for renewable energy generation, storage and transmission from a conservative perspective that resonates with the center-right decision-makers, stakeholders, and influencers in the mostly rural jurisdictions ideal for these projects.
They emphasize local economic opportunity, property rights, preserving rural areas, safeguarding electric power, conservation, and promoting American energy independence.

Through testimony before state regulators and county commissions, engagement with local officials, and through traditional and social media, the Coalition overcomes opposition, counters misinformation, and communicates the benefits of renewable energy.

Adam lives in Annapolis where he enjoys avoiding political conservations with just about everyone.

Adam’s current work includes serving as State Director of the Land & Liberty Coalition of Maryland, a project of the 501c3 Conservative Energy Network. The Land & Liberty Coalition advocates for renewable energy generation, storage and transmission from a conservative perspective that resonates with the center-right decision-makers, stakeholders, and influencers in the mostly rural jurisdictions ideal for these projects.
They emphasize local economic opportunity, property rights, preserving rural areas, safeguarding electric power, conservation, and promoting American energy independence.

Adam lives in Annapolis where he enjoys avoiding political conversations with just about everyone.

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Location: Room 2101/2102

Roundtable II: Investing in Energy Infrastructure

This discussion will highlight resource adequacy, Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and investments in resilient infrastructure can ensure reliability and capacity to meet the energy needs in Maryland. The energy future in Maryland depends on strategic investments in generation capacity. This session will explore grid modernization opportunities including renewable energy, energy storage, and other emerging technologies to ensure long-term reliability and safety; as well as plans for transmission and distribution to achieve the right balance of supply, demand, and sustainability.

Speakers:

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Location: Room 2115

Roundtable III: Addressing the Affordability Challenge for Consumers

With rising energy costs, how can consumers access affordable and sustainable energy solutions? Experts will explore conservation strategies, energy efficiency programs, virtual power plants, demand response technologies, and the future of the EMPOWER program.

Speakers:

Commissioner, Maryland Public Service Commission

Odogwu Obi Linton was appointed to the Maryland Public Service Commission in 2017, reappointed in 2022, and again in 2025 by Governor Wes Moore. He brings over two decades of leadership experience in energy policy, utility regulation, consumer protection, and regulatory law, with a strong focus on ensuring reliable, affordable, and equitable utility service for Maryland residents.

Commissioner Linton has served in multiple capacities at the Commission, including Director of the Consumer Affairs Division, where he led the development of comprehensive consumer protection regulations for Maryland’s competitive energy markets and managed the state’s Supplier Diversity Program to expand participation in utility supply chains. He previously served as Deputy Staff Counsel for the Commission, handling complex regulatory matters involving rate design, market oversight, and service quality standards.

Commissioner Linton was appointed by Governor Moore as the Commission’s representative on the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Commission (WMATC). Nationally, Commissioner Linton has held leadership roles with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), including Chair of the Consumers and the Public Interest Committee, member of the Emergency Preparedness Task Force, and founding Chair of the Supplier and Workforce Diversity Staff Subcommittee. Throughout his career, he has moderated or participated in more than one hundred national and regional panel discussions, addressing a broad range of topics including ratepayer protections, energy affordability, climate policy, and small business market access.

Prior to his public service roles, Commissioner Linton practiced regulatory and energy law representing consumers, small businesses, and competitive suppliers. Earlier in his career, he served as regulatory counsel for Baltimore Gas and Electric Company and as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Evelyn Omega Cannon of the Circuit Court for Baltimore City.

Commissioner Linton holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, where he served as Founding Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Health Care Law and Policy. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Administration of Justice and Africana Studies from Rutgers University.

Commissioner Linton resides with his family in Catonsville, Maryland.

President & CEO, Green & Healthy Homes Initiative

Ruth Ann Norton is President & CEO of the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to advancing racial and health equity and opportunity through healthy housing. A national expert and advocate on green and healthy homes, she directs GHHI’s groundbreaking work across the United States where 65 cities, counties and states are using housing as a platform for improved health and social outcomes. Through the implementation of the GHHI comprehensive housing intervention model and its best practices Toolbox that she helped develop, cities are improving the ability of children to arrive in the classroom healthy and ready to learn and to stay in school through reduced asthma related absences.

The architect of the State of Maryland’s 99% reduction in childhood lead poisoning, Ms. Norton has developed over 45 pieces of successful healthy housing legislation that focus on reducing health disparities. Through its current feasibility and development work with healthcare partners and jurisdictions nationally, she heads a GHHI technical assistance team that is creating sustainable models for Medicaid reimbursement for preventive asthma and household injury services.

Ms. Norton serves as a member of the: EPA Children’s Health Protection Advisory Committee, National Leadership Academy for the Public’s Health (NLAPH), National Council of State Housing Agencies’ National Advisory Group, Ohio Asthma Council, and Maryland Lead Poisoning Prevention Commission, and was previously a federally appointed liaison to the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention. A founding member of the NEWHAB Advisory Board, she provides a leading voice to articulate the significant health and social benefits of weatherization investments through her advisory role with Energy Efficiency for All (EEFA) and has authored research publications on the non-energy benefits of energy efficiency.

Ms. Norton is a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Community Health Leader, a Weinberg Foundation Fellow, a WE ACT Environmental and Social Justice awardee, and received the Tony Woods Award for Excellence from the Building Performance Industry in 2016 for her efforts to integrate energy efficiency upgrades with healthy homes interventions on a national scale. Under her leadership, GHHI has been awarded the HUD Secretary’s Award for Healthy Homes and the EPA’s National Environmental Leadership Award in Asthma Management for its innovative programs.

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Location: Room 2104

Roundtable IV: Tipping the Scales on Sustainable Transportation

Electric vehicles, public transit, and sustainable fuels are reshaping transportation. This session will examine planning, funding, and financing strategies to support the transition to a cleaner, more efficient transportation system in Maryland.

Speakers:

President, Sustainable Energy Strategies

Jill Hamilton is the Founder and President of Sustainable Energy Strategies, Inc. (SESI), bringing over 35 years of experience in consulting for the alternative fuels sector. She is recognized as a subject matter expert with extensive knowledge in:

• Advanced alternative fuel technologies and the development of domestic clean energy infrastructure.
• Business development strategies for the biofuels and clean energy sectors, encompassing policy analysis, market research, fleet evaluations, equipment assessments, and collaborations with retailers and fleet operators.
• A deep understanding of government programs, staff, and related grant opportunities. – Management of non-profit organizations and foundations.
• Supporting Clean Cities coalitions effectively.

Ms. Hamilton’s journey in the alternative fuels arena commenced in 1988 when she joined the U.S. Department of Energy’s Biofuels Division. Between 1992 and 1997, she founded and co-managed the Alternative Fuels Hotline for Information Resources, Inc. (IRI) while overseeing its alternative fuels division. In 1997, she established Sustainable Energy Strategies, Inc. Over the past two decades, SESI has been instrumental in providing grant management and fundraising support to Clean Fuels Alliance America (formerly the National Biodiesel Board), its Foundation, and members, helping industry stakeholders secure over a billion dollars and maximize additional funding. For nearly ten years, she has served as chair of the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition and held positions on various boards. Ms. Hamilton earned her BS degree in Environmental Studies from Principia College in Elsah, Illinois.

Director of Strategic Partnerships, ezVOLTz

Laura Everngam-Price is the Director of Strategic Partnerships at ezVOLTz. An accomplished elected official and entrepreneur, Laura brings strong analytical, communication and leadership skills to ezVOLTz. In 2022, she served as the President of the Executive Board of Directors of the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo). Additionally, Laura was a member of MACo’s board and Talbot County’s legislative liaison for eight years.

Holding local elected office and leading a statewide organization provided Laura a firm foundation in all things Government. She led collaborative discussions with both local and State elected officials, on proposed legislation, identifying and minimizing potential impacts to the counties in addition to formulating positions on key legislation. As President of a non-partisan organization, Laura was devoted to strengthening the relationships amongst the counties, both urban and rural alike, and cultivating conversations with the Maryland General Assembly.

Always laser-focused on understanding the needs of constituents, Laura expanded her abilities in implementing and articulating public policy. One way she accomplished that goal was by writing a series of “Reports from Annapolis”. These weekly reports were published during the 2019-22 Legislative sessions. They appeared in the Star Democrat, Talbot Spy, The Daily Record, Capital Gazette and Maryland Matters among others.

For 20 years, Laura owned and operated a small business. She managed daily business operations, financial planning, payroll administration, publication designs and the business marketing plan. Being a determined entrepreneur, Laura identified and enacted new efficiencies and additional services to better serve her customers, which led to increased profitability for the business.

Laura’s years of experience in all these roles brings a rare perspective, that ezVOLTz believes will be valuable for all involved.

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Location: Room 0101

Roundtable V: The Future of Building Energy Performance & Resilience

Improving building performance is key to energy efficiency and resilience. Learn how policies like Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS), virtual power plants, energy storage, and security initiatives are driving progress in the built environment.

Speakers:

Market Transformation and Development, South Regional Director, USGBC

Ryan Snow is a recognized leader in sustainability, with over two decades of experience driving market transformation in the green building industry. As Regional Director of U.S. Market Transformation & Development at the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), he leads the implementation of strategies to advance sustainability, health, resilience, and equity in buildings and communities in the U.S. South. Ryan leads a regional team, shaping local engagement, delivering impactful programming, and fostering strategic partnerships to accelerate green building adoption.
Previously, Ryan served as Chief Community Developer at USGBC, where he cultivated partnerships, expanded industry participation, and championed equitable access to sustainability resources. He played a pivotal role in merging over 70 independent chapters into a unified national network, strengthening local impact. His leadership has driven landmark summits engaging thousands at the intersection of sustainability, resilience, and social equity. He also launched USGBC’s education partner program, trained 100+ USGBC Faculty and produced hundreds of hours of educational content for global audiences.

Ryan’s sustainability expertise spans market development, policy, consulting, and education, including his tenure at the Green Building Alliance (GBA) in Pittsburgh, where he advised on affordable housing grants with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and consulted on the Pittsburgh Green Building Loan Fund and high-performance building projects. He helped establish the NAIOP Sustainable Development Awards, led the first summit on greening historic properties in conjunction with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, and created a platform for real estate executives to explore the business case for sustainability.

Beyond his professional roles, Ryan has contributed to numerous organizations, including Urban Land Institute, Interfaith Power & Light, Pittsburgh Community Foodbank, American Institute of Constructors, and others. He currently serves as co-chair for ULI Washington’s Net Zero Initiative Technical Advisory Panel committee. As an adjunct faculty member at Chatham University, he developed and taught sustainability curricula and chaired thesis committees in the Master of Landscape Architecture program.

Ryan holds an M.S. in Sustainable Systems from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania and a B.S. in Science and Technology Studies from Michigan State University’s Lyman Briggs School. He has pursued graduate-level coursework in real estate development at Drexel University and has been LEED AP BD+C certified since 2003.

Co-Founder & Principal, Passive to POSITIVE

Michael Hindle is the founder and principal of Passive to POSITIVE, a Building Enclosure and Energy Efficiency consulting firm specializing in PASSIVE HOUSE, Zero Energy, Low Carbon, and Resilient Design. He is also co-founder and principal of Common Ecology, a regenerative and permaculture-based design company, focused on regenerative community redevelopment projects.

Michael was trained formally as an artist and was a practicing artist and educator at the college level for 12 years. He began his inquiry into sustainable architecture as a member of an Architecture Design Studio faculty at Miami University of Ohio in 2003. While teaching painting and drawing at Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, MD, he began working with Brennan + Company Architects in Baltimore, researching ways to deepen the firm’s commitment to environmental practice. He turned his attention to architecture full time in 2008, focused on sustainability and climate change impacts. Michael became one of the nation’s first Certified Passive House Consultants (CPHC) in late 2009. He has consulted on Passive House, zero-energy, and Living Building Challenge projects that include single-family and multi-family residential, mixed-use, and small commercial projects from Washington DC to New Hampshire. He has experience in both new construction and retrofits, and is committed to low toxicity, low Global Warming Potential, and carbon sequestering building methods.

In 2014, Michael founded Passive to POSITIVE. Since its founding in 2014, the company has achieved an impressive range of firsts and ground breaking projects: Weinberg Commons, in Washington DC, was the first Certified Passive House Retrofit apartment building in the country, and won the PHIUS 2017 Affordable Project of the year award; The Old Hopkins Rd. House in Clarksville, MD, won 2018 “Source-Energy Zero” project of the year from PHIUS; The Studio for High-Performance Design and Construction, in Newton, MA, is one of the first Passive House retrofit and positive energy office buildings in the country; and Gilford Village Knolls III, the first multi-family Passive House in New Hampshire, and the Dallas Street Passive House in Baltimore, has won numerous AIA design awards.

Michael is a former president of the Passive House Alliance and served on the Board of Directors of the Passive House Institute/US. He received his MFA from Indiana University, Bloomington, and his CPHC designation through the Passive House Institute/US (PHIUS), located in Chicago, Illinois.

He lives with his wife and business partner, Architect, Carri Beer, and 3 kids in a mid-century modern, deep energy retrofit, near net-zero home on a permaculture inspired lot in Catonsville, MD.

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Location: Room 1105

Roundtable VI: What’s the Plan? Creating a Comprehensive Energy Strategy for Maryland

Join us for a forward-looking discussion focused on shaping a comprehensive energy strategy for the state of Maryland. We’ll explore how to effectively align ambitious climate change goals with practical energy transition pathways. A key focus will address financing challenges and opportunities, examining strategies to fund both clean energy deployment and climate adaptation. We will specifically consider the implications and potential leverage of recent legislation, including the Renewable Energy Act and the Next Generation Energy, in achieving these goals.

Speakers:

Executive Director, Maryland Clean Energy Center

Throughout her career Ms. Magruder has been focused on the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development.

Chair, Maryland Public Service Commission

Frederick H. Hoover was appointed Chair of the Maryland Public Service Commission by Governor Wes Moore for a five-year term beginning on July 1, 2023.

2:50pm – 3:05pm

Location: Main Floor

Networking Break

Take a break, grab a cookie, and connect with your peers.

4:15pm – 5:15pm

Location: Front of Hotel – Fireplaces

Legislator/Public Service Commission Meet & Greet

This is your opportunity to catch the ear of Maryland decisionmakers. Secure brief windows with legislators and representatives from the Maryland Public Service Commission to discuss your most pressing energy issues.

Speakers:

Chair, Maryland Public Service Commission

Frederick H. Hoover was appointed Chair of the Maryland Public Service Commission by Governor Wes Moore for a five-year term beginning on July 1, 2023.

Commissioner, Maryland Public Service Commission

Commissioner Linton resides with his family in Catonsville, Maryland.

4:30pm – 6:00pm

Location: Hall of Distinction & Patio

Networking Reception

This popular happy hour offers a prime opportunity to connect with industry leaders and legislators.

6:00pm – 8:30pm

Location: Patuxent Ballroom

Partner Dinner (Additional Ticket Required)

This exclusive, ticketed dinner brings together key supporters of the Maryland Clean Energy Center for a plated meal and remarks from legislators, utility representatives, and industry experts. Space is limited; sponsor the event or purchase your ticket early to secure your place. Secure your event add-on when purchasing your full-conference or day-one ticket.

Speakers:

Executive Director, Maryland Clean Energy Center

Throughout her career Ms. Magruder has been focused on the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development.

8:00am – 9:00am

Location: Chesapeake Ballroom Foyer

Registration & Networking Breakfast

Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast while networking with fellow clean energy champions prior to the start of day-two programming.

9:00am – 9:15am

Location: Chesapeake Ballroom

Welcome: Opening Remarks

Day II begins with opening remarks from Maryland Clean Energy staff and guest speaker Paul Pisnky, Director of the Maryland Energy Administration.

Speakers:

Executive Director, Maryland Clean Energy Center

Throughout her career Ms. Magruder has been focused on the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development.

Director, Maryland Energy Administration

Paul Pinsky was appointed by Governor Moore to be the Director of the Maryland Energy Administration and he took office on January 18, 2023.

Prior to his appointment as director, he was elected to the Maryland state senate seven times. As a senator, he chaired the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee. He has also served on the Maryland Commision on Climate Change since its inception.

Pinsky has been a long-time champion in the fight to address climate change and clean up the Chesapeake Bay. He is the principal author of dozens of environmental laws that have helped shape most major state environmental policies in Maryland over the last two decades.

As senator, he sponsored the landmark Climate Solutions Now legislation, passed in 2022, which requires Maryland to slash emissions 60% by 2031 and to achieve net zero emissions by 2045. He was also the lead sponsor of: the watershed 2006 Healthy Air Act which included mandating Maryland’s membership in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI); legislation codifying the Climate Commission; and the 2009 and 2016 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Acts. He also co-sponsored the Clean Energy Jobs Act to require Maryland to obtain at least 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

Paul Pinsky served on the Commission on Innovation & Excellence in Education (the Kirwan Commission) and was a major architect of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future which aims to transform Maryland’s education system.

He is also a longtime advocate for social, economic and environmental justice.

Director Pinsky worked in the education field for over 40 years, teaching high school history, advocating for teachers and their working conditions and consulting and developing policy focused on improving teacher quality.

9:15am – 10:00am

Location: Chesapeake Ballroom

Plenary I: Roundtable Reports

This opening plenary features the pivotal highlights from the Roundtable sessions. Hear an overview of discussions with policy makers, key stakeholders, and industry leaders working to identity the core barriers and promising opportunities in shaping policies, regulations, and strategies to find the balance between energy supply, demand, and sustainability.

Speakers:

Executive Director, Maryland Clean Energy Center

Throughout her career Ms. Magruder has been focused on the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development.

10:00am – 10:15am

Location: Chesapeake Ballroom

Keynote Speaker

Sponsored by Constellation, the keynote address will be delivered by a representative from this clean-energy giant. Hear the perspective of an energy executive on the greatest challenges facing the clean energy landscape in Maryland.

Speakers:

10:30am – 11:15am

Location: Room 2101/2102

Breakout I – Track A: Storage at Scale (Resilience)

With the reduction of energy generation, increased demand, and the impact of AI data centers, it will become more difficult to protect against outages, weather-related grid disruptions, and predictable energy costs. This session delves into the critical role of scalable storage solutions to ensure safety, reliability, resiliency, and consistent power while advancing toward a zero-carbon tomorrow.

Speakers:

10:30am – 11:15am

Location: Room 2110/2111

Breakout I – Track B: Adopting DERs for Cost Savings (Cost Control & Reduction)

Discover how Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) – encompassing technologies beyond solar like energy storage, smart devices, and EVs – can significantly cut utility costs for residents, businesses, and municipalities. This session explores how these localized grid-connected solutions for power generation, storage, and services enable substantial savings through on-site use, optimized timing, and potential revenue from grid sales.

Speakers:

Sr. Account Executive, Ameresco

Brett Daniels is a Senior Account Executive whose career has been dedicated to implementing complex infrastructure improvement projects within the renewable energy and energy services industry. With over 20 years of experience, he brings deep expertise in business development, engineering, and project management. Mr. Daniels has supported hundreds of public-sector clients across the Mid-Atlantic, including K–12 school districts, universities, community colleges, municipalities, correctional facilities, and streetlighting authorities, in achieving their energy efficiency, electrification, and decarbonization goals.

In his current role, Mr. Daniels focuses on business development in the East Region, focusing on client engagement, project design, and the advancement of ESCO solutions such as Energy Savings Performance Contracts, Energy As A Service and other Public Private Partnerships that improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and modernize aging facilities. He collaborates closely with internal engineering, development, legal, and finance teams to deliver innovative results with infrastructure strategies that consistently exceed client expectations.

Mr. Daniels began his career as an energy performance engineer designing energy efficiency projects, later transitioning into client-facing leadership roles where he guided initiatives from concept through implementation. A Maryland native, he is a Board Member and past President of the Association of Energy Engineers – Baltimore Chapter.

He has written and spoken widely on energy conservation, electrification, net zero strategies, and decarbonization, sharing practical insights and thought leadership to help organizations navigate the evolving energy landscape. His professional credentials include Certified Renewable Energy Professional (REP), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and Certified Lighting Efficiency Professional (CLEP), along with extensive experience in benchmarking, utility analysis, and sustainability initiatives.

10:30am – 11:15am

Location: Room 0101

Breakout I – Track C: Funding Maryland's Climate Goals (Innovative Solutions)

In this session, we will unlock funding opportunities in Maryland to achieve energy reduction, renewable energy adoption, climate action, and green job creation through grants, loans, rebates, and tax incentives. We’ll explore a comprehensive overview of innovative funding mechanisms available at the state, local, utility, and federal levels to implement energy efficiency upgrades and install renewable energy systems, empowering you to leverage these resources for impactful projects.

Speakers:

CIO, MCEC

Anmol Vanamali is a sustainable finance expert with almost 20 years of experience working in climate, energy and infrastructure sectors with corporations, financial institutions, non-profit institutions and governments. Prior to joining MCEC, he was the Director of Innovative Climate Finance at the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) where he was responsible for institutional strategy development, transaction underwriting, interagency collaboration and external engagement related to climate finance. Prior to joining the DFC, he was the Director of Sustainable Finance at Winrock International and was responsible for designing and implementing sustainable finance solutions through partnerships with financial institutions and the private sector to achieve global sustainable development goals. Previously, he was the Financing Strategies Director with the Vermont Energy Investment Corporation (VEIC), responsible for designing and implementing impact investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Prior to VEIC, he was the Director of Finance and Policy Analysis at the Center for Clean Air Policy (CCAP) and was a leading voice in areas of global climate finance and sustainable infrastructure. Earlier in his career, Anmol was part of the Principal Investments team at Macquarie Capital that focused on private equity investments in the renewable energy sector and an Assistant Manager at Gammon Infrastructure Projects Ltd., where he financed and developed large-scale infrastructure in India. He is also currently an Adjunct Professor at the Edmund Walsh School of Foreign Service (SFS) at Georgetown University where he teaches a course that explores the intersection of corporate sustainability and international development. Anmol hails from India originally and has a Bachelor of Sciences degree from PSG College of technology (Coimbatore), a Masters in Business Administration from Sydenham Institute of Management (Mumbai) and a Masters in International Affairs degree from Columbia University (New York). He has business fluency in English, Spanish and Hindi and is conversational in French.

11:15am – 11:30am

Location: Main Floor

Networking Break

11:30am – 12:15am

Location: Room 2101/2102

Breakout II – Track A: Making of a Microgrid, Islands in the Energy Stream (Resilience)

Microgrids offer a powerful solution for a more resilient and sustainable energy future. This session dives into how these localized systems leverage on-site generation, like solar and wind, to create a bidirectional energy flow, creating greater control and independence. Learn how microgrids, especially when coupled with battery storage, can lower energy costs, ensure power during outages, prioritize renewable resources, and support the increasing demands of electrification.

Speakers:

11:30am – 12:15am

Location: Room 2110/2111

Breakout II – Track B: Affordable Fleet Conversion & Infrastructure Ownership (Cost Control & Reduction)

Learn how to navigate the shift to electric fleets and find significant cost savings in the process. This session reveals how fleet operators can leverage off-peak charging, add Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology to allow EVs to charge from the grid and supply stored energy back, and utilize advanced telematics to minimize energy expenses, ensure regulatory compliance, reduce downtime, and optimize fleet efficiency through real-time data and predictive maintenance.

Speakers:

Senior Design & Estimation, Blue Whale EV

Key Functional Areas Covered:
Jack Wilson is a seasoned professional with a distinguished background in electrical infrastructure development, specializing in complex private and public sector projects within the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry. Combining innovative ideas, continuity, and precise execution, Jack’s expertise ensures the success of EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) projects. His keen eye for detail and dedication to client satisfaction make him an invaluable member of the Blue Whale EV Senior Management team.

Jack’s role involves conducting comprehensive site walks, thorough needs assessments, and evaluations of existing conditions to develop tailored infrastructure plans for EV charging projects. He excels at identifying where clients currently stand and aligning their future goals with sustainable energy solutions. Jack’s unwavering commitment to driving positive change in the EV industry positions him as a trusted leader for our clients’ EVSE charging needs.

Leadership and Advocacy:
In addition to his work at Blue Whale EV, Jack Wilson serves as the President of the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo). In this role, he continues the organization’s tradition of protecting local government autonomy while addressing key legislative challenges. Jack is dedicated to fostering statewide progress by advocating for policies that balance economic growth with sustainable development. Under his leadership, MACo ensures all Maryland counties, including smaller jurisdictions, have a strong voice in shaping policies that enhance resources and services for residents.

Career Highlights:
Before joining Blue Whale EV, Jack owned a Mechanical & Electrical business serving the Mid-Atlantic region and served on the Maryland State Electrical Board for 12 years, including 8 years as Chairman. Since 2015, he has held the elected position of County Commissioner for Queen Anne’s County, where his contributions have consistently benefited local communities.

Educational Background:
Jack Wilson holds a Mechanical and Electrical Master’s License for the State of Maryland, along with Electrical Master’s Licenses in West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware, and Washington, D.C.

CEO/Executive Director, Greater Washington Area Clean Cities Coalition

Antoine Maurice Thompson is a native of Buffalo, New York. He graduated from Buffalo Public Schools #61, #60, and Bennett High School. A graduate of SUNY Brockport with a dual bachelors’ degree in History and African and Afro-American Studies, Thompson also studied at the University of Ghana in Ghana, West Africa. Antoine is the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Medaille College. He is a graduate of the 2001 Class of Leadership Buffalo.

Antoine M. Thompson is a nationally recognized leader for environmental justice, green business, housing, diversity, and urban policy. Antoine is the Executive Director of the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCC), a public-private partnership that promotes the use of clean, American transportation fuels for homeland security, improved air quality, environment justice, diversity, and inclusion.

He is the former Executive Director of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) the oldest organization of African American real estate professionals in the United States. Antoine led efforts to increase advocacy on Capitol Hill on closing the racial wealth gap through increasing the rate of Black homeownership.

He had a significant public service career in his hometown of Buffalo, New York. His positions have included election to Buffalo Common Council where he authored the Buffalo’s Fair Housing Law, the Minority and Women Business Enterprise Inclusion Law and secured over $75 million for community development projects. He was elected to the New York State Senate in 2006 and 2008 and served as the Senate Deputy Majority Whip and the first African American to Chair the Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Conservation and Co-Chair of the Senate Minority and Woman Business Enterprise Task Force. He authored the NYS MWBE Mentor/Protégé Law. He was key architect of the Green Jobs/Green New York law.”

11:30am – 12:15am

Location: Room 0101

Breakout II – Track C: Maryland is on a Path to Net-Zero Energy by 2045: Here Are 12 steps to Achieve It (Innovative Solutions)

This session provides a clear and innovative pathway to achieving this goal, outlining 12 crucial steps. From super-insulated building enclosures and harnessing on-site solar and geothermal energy to implementing smart controls and embracing beneficial electrification, we’ll explore each strategy in detail. Discover how maximizing efficiency, utilizing renewables, implementing weatherization, and leveraging innovative solutions like thermal energy storage can collectively transform Maryland’s energy landscape.

Speakers:

12:30pm – 1:45pm

Location: General Vessey Ballroom

Awards Luncheon

Sponsored by PSEG, hear about the key energy issues facing Maryland from PSEG Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship Richard T. Thigpen. Luncheon remarks will be followed by the recognition of the foremost clean energy champions in Maryland.

Speakers:

Senior Vice President – Corporate Citizenship, PSEG

Richard T. Thigpen was named senior vice president for Corporate Citizenship in July 2018. Mr. Thigpen also is chair of the PSEG Foundation. He is responsible for supporting areas of the business that are impacted by public policy through advocacy, including federal, state and local government affairs, sustainability, charitable activities, and corporate social responsibility. Mr. Thigpen is a member of PSEG’s Senior Executive Team.

Mr. Thigpen joined PSEG in March 2007 as vice president for State Governmental Affairs, PSEG Services Corp. He has been a public affairs consultant since 1999 and was a co-founding partner of 1868 Public Affairs, which provides lobbying, strategic planning, public relations and government relations services to clients in New Jersey, New York and Washington, D.C.

Previously, Mr. Thigpen was an associate at the New York law firm of Thacher Proffitt and Wood in the mortgage-backed securities practice group (1988 to 1990), district director for U.S. Rep. Donald Payne (NJ-10) (1990 to 1996) and executive director of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee (1996 to 1999). He has served as a political analyst for New Jersey Network and as an academic associate for PublicMind, Fairleigh Dickinson University Polling and Survey Research Institute. Mr. Thigpen was a former assistant to the president of the NAACP State Conference for Public Affairs. Currently, he is chair of Alliance to Save Energy, as well as a member of the boards of the Regional Plan Association, Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES), New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, Public Media NJ Inc. (NJ PBS), New Jersey Business & Industry Association, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Newark Public Radio, Inc. (WBGO), and the Donald M. Payne Global Foundation. He is also chair emeritus of the American Association of Blacks in Energy national board, and serves as a visiting associate at the Rutgers University Eagleton Institute of Politics.

Mr. Thigpen holds a Doctor of Law degree from Columbia University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Brown University.

Executive Director, Maryland Clean Energy Center

Throughout her career Ms. Magruder has been focused on the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development.

2:00pm – 2:45pm

Location: Room 2101/2102

Breakout III – Track A: Building Retrofit Made Easy (Resilience)

Buildings represent 40% of total energy consumption, making retrofits a crucial part of the clean energy transition. Energy needs are broadening beyond just energy savings to include resilience, reduced operations and maintenance costs, improved operations, and sustainability. This session looks at retrofit projects not just for energy savings, but also enhanced resilience, lower operating expenses, improved overall building performance, and to meet BEPS requirements. We’ll explore real-world examples relevant to both the public and private sectors.

Speakers:

President & Founder, eSai

Dr. Nandini Mouli has extensive experience originating and managing all aspects of clean energy businesses. A serious entrepreneur with expertise in building new businesses, directing and consulting for public and private sectors, she has demonstrated superior leadership skills and an impressive ability to attract high energy-progressive clients and has undertaken design-and-build projects utilizing industry best practices. As the Principal of eSai LLC, she manages business development, funding and implementation of clean energy projects for public/private sector clients.

Some of Dr. Mouli’s other accomplishments:

Inventor: 49 US and International patents in chemical and energy fields: Recently issued: US9777204 B2, (Oct.3,’17), US 8668791 (Mar.’14); US 8663494 (Mar.’04); US 8535555 (Sep.’13); US 8529786 (Sep.’13); 8,383,004 B2 & US 8394386 (Jan.’14),8529786 (Sep.’13),US 8946846(Jul ’13),US 8101094(Jan.’12), US 80718 (Jan.’12).
Author: Over 10 technical papers on carbon abatement, climate change, green buildings, Distributed Energy Services and Microgrids.
Board-of-Directors: National Council on Women in Energy and Environmental Leadership (CWEEL), Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), Angstroms Inc., HACSI and an honorary advisor to the Maryland Clean Energy Center (2017-to-date).
President: Association of Energy Engineers – Baltimore.
Board-of-Trustees: UHJT, HTA and GBT and Advisor for Inter-Faith Coalition on Climate Change
Moderator: Panel discussions on Microgrid and Energy Storage (Nov.’17), many clean energy and “You be the Chemist” National competitions
Education: Ph.D., Six Sigma Black Belt, DOE-Superior Energy Performance, Certified Climate Leadership Professional, Rapid Marketing Assessment/Rapid Value Assessment Certifications

CEO, GreenGen

Bradford H. Dockser is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of GreenGen. Founded in 2011, GreenGen transforms and decarbonizes the built environment through innovative solutions that integrate energy, real estate, technology, and capital markets, empowering organizations to Operate in the Green®. GreenGen helps clients including Blackstone, KKR, Allianz, DWS, Starwood Capital, and AEW profitably transition to a zero-carbon world across all asset types and verticals. GreenGen’s net zero carbon strategies are developed and implemented by a global team that includes mechanical, electrical, lighting, and environmental engineers, PhDs, tradesmen, as well as real estate and capital markets experts.

Brad is a sought-after advisor and speaker on the role of sustainability in driving the profitability of real assets and investment firms. He is a Forbes contributor and has spoken at many ULI convenings around the world, as well as for events hosted by AFIRE, MIPIM, and PERE.

Throughout two decades of real estate investing, Brad was a Principal with CalPERS-backed MacFarlane Partners and the Founding Partner and Managing Director of Starwood Capital Europe and Starwood Capital Asia, overseeing operations in each region. Brad led Starwood’s strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and overall strategy in APAC and Europe for over a decade.

Brad began his career with JMB Realty, then the largest US real estate firm, and later with CRI, then the largest owner of multifamily residential properties, where he oversaw the creation of Capital Apartment Properties REIT (CAPREIT).

Brad received an A.B. cum laude in Economics and an MBA, both from Harvard University. Brad serves as a Global Governing Trustee of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and is a member of the Global Advisory Board for ULI’s Randall Lewis Center for Sustainability in Real Estate, which includes the ULI Greenpoint program, the Healthy Places Initiative, and ULI’s Resiliency program. He is also on the ULI Global Exchange Product Council. He previously served as the Chair of ULI’s Redevelopment and Reuse Product Council and founded ULI Washington’s Sustainability Initiative. He is a frequent speaker on issues pertaining to the clean energy transition, including for organizations such as ULI, PERE, CRETech, Harvard University, and Duke University. He is a member of The Economic Club of Washington DC, the US Green Building Council, and the International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP). He previously taught as Adjunct Faculty at Johns Hopkins University’s Carey School (MBA Program). Brad is a mentor for MetaProp (NY), and a CREtech Leadership Board member. He was also Founding Director of the Greater Washington Exploratory Committee, DC’s bid committee for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games.

2:00pm – 2:45pm

Location: Room 2110/2111

Breakout III – Track B: Cost Effective Building Management Solutions (Cost Control & Reduction)

Discover cost-effective strategies to develop, design, build, and finance building projects that significantly cut energy consumption, reduce operational expenses, and enhance tenant comfort while drastically lowering carbon emissions. This session will explore a comprehensive suite of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs), address associated technical and performance risks, and highlight innovative solutions, such as heat computers, sensor networks, and machine learning systems, that minimize upfront investment and accelerate payback, ultimately delivering substantial savings and environmental benefits.

Speakers:

Sr. Account Executive, Ameresco

2:00pm – 2:45pm

Location: Room 0101

Breakout III – Track C: Transformative Building Materials & Systems (Innovative Solutions)

Explore cutting-edge building materials and systems that are revolutionizing clean energy by seamlessly integrating renewable sources, dramatically improving energy efficiency, and fostering sustainable construction. This session will showcase how these innovations significantly reduce carbon footprints, lower energy costs, enhance building performance and comfort, and bolster resilience against power disruptions and climate impacts, paving the way for a decarbonized and sustainable built environment.

Speakers:

Co-Founder & Principal, Passive to POSITIVE

He lives with his wife and business partner, Architect, Carri Beer, and 3 kids in a mid-century modern, deep energy retrofit, near net-zero home on a permaculture inspired lot in Catonsville, MD.

2:45pm – 3:15pm

Location: Main Floor

Networking Break

Use this final networking break to wrap up your discussions with the connections you’ve made throughout the Summit.

3:15pm – 4:15pm

Location: Chesapeake Ballroom

Plenary II

During Plenary II, experts will discuss the impact of federal policies on Maryland’s clean energy initiatives. Learn about the current challenges and how we can outline a comprehensive strategy of action to address Maryland’s most pressing clean energy issues and bolster our region’s economic standing.

Speakers:

Senate Education, Energy and the Environment Committee (District 23)

Dr. Ron Watson, born and raised in Prince George’s County, currently serves as State Senator for the 23rd Legislative District in the Maryland General Assembly. Ron was appointed to the Maryland Senate on August 27, 2021, by Gov. Larry Hogan to fill the vacancy created by Douglas Peters, who resigned July 31, 2021. He was re-elected to the Senate on November 8, 2022. He is the Vice Chairman of the Prince George’s Senate Delegation. He serves on the Education, Energy and Environment Committee, and was appointed to the Joint Committee on Cyber, Biotech and Information Technology for the state of Maryland.

Prior to serving as Senator, he was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 2018 where he served on the Judiciary Committee.

Before being elected to the House of Delegates, Ron was elected to the Prince George’s County Board of Education and served as Vice-Chairman from 2007 – 2010. In this capacity he spearheaded many programs to enhance the learning experience for students to be successful. One program Ron established with the assistance of the School board was “Connecting Generations”. This initiative was a county-wide mentoring program designed to improve student success and build social skills by pairing a student with an adult mentor.

Ron had a distinguished military career spanning 14 years as an Army Signal Officer and served on active duty to support Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon leaving military service he started, and is the President of, Watson Management Corporation (WMC). WMC is a locally based business management consulting company, which provides support to the Department of Defense (DOD) and other government agencies in Business Operations, Program Management, Quality Assurance, and Process Improvement. Ron has been working as a consultant to the DOD for over 30 years.

Ron has a strong educational background and is a firm believer in life-long learning. His educational background includes:

PhD – Systems Engineering, Binghamton University
MS – Advanced Technology, Binghamton University
MBA – Business Administration, George Washington University
BS – Electrical Engineering, Morgan State University
Leadership Maryland, 2008

Ron has a long history of community service. He is currently a member of Engineering Executive Council in the School of Engineering at Morgan State University. He has served as District Chairman of the Boy Scouts of America for Prince George’s County, as well as a Board Member of the Greater Bowie Chamber of Commerce. He is a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and has served on Bowie State University’s Foundation Board. He is 33rd degree Prince Hall Mason, and a member of the Charles H. Wesley Lodge #147 located in Bowie Maryland, a member of I.H. Clayborn Consistory #363 in Columbia and a Shriner with Mecca Temple #10 in Washington, D.C.. He is a veteranb and a life-member of Disney-Bell American Legion Post 66 in Bowie, a member of First Baptist Church of Glenarden, and the husband of Ingrid S. Watson, Councilmember of Prince George’s County Council.

4:15pm – 4:30pm

Location: Chesapeake Ballroom

Closing Remarks

The 2025 Summit concludes with closing remarks from Maryland Secretary of Commerce Henry Coker Jr. Maryland Clean Energy Center Executive Director Kathy Magruder will also share key takeaways, outlining the collective action plan to leverage innovative clean energy solutions, boost Maryland’s economic standing, and accelerate our decarbonization goals.

Speakers:

Secretary, Maryland Department of Commerce

The Honorable Harry Coker Jr was appointed by Governor Moore as Maryland’s Acting Secretary of Commerce on February 5, 2025. At Commerce, the state’s primary economic development agency, Coker is focused on working collaboratively to help Maryland “Win the Decade” by developing and sustaining an equitable, robust and competitive economy.

Acting Secretary Coker is a retired Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) senior executive, former National Security Agency (NSA) senior executive and career Naval Officer. He was previously America’s National Cyber Director, serving in the White House from 2023 – 2025.

While serving as Executive Director of the NSA, he directly supported the Director and Deputy Director in the strategic and day-to-day leadership of the Agency. During his service with the CIA, Coker was assigned to leadership positions in the Directorate of Digital Innovation; the Directorate of Science & Technology; and the Director’s Area.

Coker’s service to the nation has been recognized with the awarding of the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal, the Presidential Rank Award, the NSA Director’s Distinguished Service Medal, the Intelligence Community EEOD Outstanding Leadership Award, and CIA’s Don Cryer Award for Diversity & Inclusion leadership.

Outside of the government, Coker has served as the President of the Central Intelligence Retirees Association (CIRA) and on the Boards of Directors of the US Naval Academy Foundation; the US Navy Memorial; and Dog Tag, Inc. He also served as an Operating Partner with C5 Capital; an Outside Director for JSI Telecom, Inc; on the Strategic Advisory Committee for Octasic, Inc.; on the Editorial Board of Studies in Intelligence; and on the Advisory Boards of Zeeam Government Solutions; and Historic Ships in Baltimore. Coker also served as a Senior Fellow with Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security.

A long-time resident of Clinton, MD, Coker currently resides in Baltimore. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, the Naval Postgraduate School, and Georgetown University Law Center.

Executive Director, Maryland Clean Energy Center

Throughout her career Ms. Magruder has been focused on the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development.

All-Day

Networking Lounge

The Networking Lounge is a dedicated space for attendees to connect, relax, and hold informal meetings. Stop by and meet fellow industry leaders and innovators.

Balance Challenge: Electric Bike

Power Up With a Purpose! Plug in and pedal and charge your phone or device. Track how much your battery percentage increases. Write the total percentage of charge gained on your business card and drop it in the jar. The guest whose device gains the most power wins a prize!

Tumble Tower Game

Stack ‘Em High! Can you stack 10+ pieces before it topples? If so, drop your business card here for a chance to win a great prize!

Balance Challenge: Giant Jenga

Step up to the tower! Pull a block, stack it high, and don’t let it all come crashing down. Play for fun now, then compete for the title of Jenga Champion during our Networking Reception!

Balance Challenge: Balance Beam

Don’t Drop the Ball! Walk the beam with a ball on a spoon. Finish the challenge, then drop your business card to enter the draw for a great prize!

Tabletop Balance Games

Explore a variety of smaller balance games designed to challenge your precision and steadiness.