National leaders convene to advance equity, representation, and opportunity in the clean energy transition
“We’re going to remake America’s energy landscape. And we’re going to do it with and for Hispanic communities.”
— Jennifer Granholm
On February 15, 2023, Hispanics in Energy (HIE) hosted its 2023 Energy Legislative Summit: Defining Energy Transition Equity for Hispanic Americans at the U.S. Department of Energy in Washington, D.C.
The daylong summit convened more than 40 leaders from government, industry, and academia, alongside an audience of over 11,000 virtual attendees nationwide. The event created a national platform for dialogue on the role of Hispanic and Latino communities in shaping a more equitable and sustainable energy future.
Featured speakers included Jennifer Granholm, Alex Padilla, and Joseph Domínguez, along with senior executives, policymakers, and community leaders from across the energy sector.
Discussions centered on ensuring that historic federal investments, including the Inflation Reduction Act, translate into meaningful economic opportunity for Hispanic communities. Speakers highlighted persistent disparities in workforce representation, access to capital, and participation in decision-making roles across the energy industry.
“Too many decisions are being made…without the sufficient inputs or the perspective of Latinos.”
— Alex Padilla
A key focus of the summit was strengthening the talent pipeline through investment in Hispanic-Serving Institutions and expanding pathways into STEM and energy careers. Participants also emphasized the importance of increasing opportunities for Hispanic-owned businesses and ensuring equitable access to federal energy programs.
“We have an opportunity of a lifetime to seize.”
— Joseph Domínguez
The summit concluded with a call to deepen collaboration between HIE and the Department of Energy, including proposals to expand workforce development, support community engagement, and promote equitable distribution of energy investments and resources.
