Student Life

Takeaways from CERAWeek Volunteers

Rice MBA students volunteered their time during this year’s CERAWeek — an annual conference held in Houston and hosted by S&P Global. Below, they share takeaways from their experience.

What are the insights and discussions on the latest industry trends? What are we seeing in terms of innovative technologies and energy sector challenges?

U.S. electricity demand is set to increase rapidly.

Projections for future electricity needs have significantly increased due to rapid advancement in AI, a renewed focus on reshoring U.S. manufacturing, and ongoing efforts to electrify the economy.
This demand surge impacts the aging and underinvested power grid. Traditional power and utility business models are struggling to support the anticipated load growth.
The expansion of power projects — both renewable and conventional — is hindered by lengthy permitting processes, political opposition, and extended project queues.

Derek Fry, Full-Time MBA

Efforts in clean tech and sustainability are driving operational and environmental improvements.

Companies have an increasingly real opportunity to enhance efficiency, reduce costs and mitigate environmental impact.
Strategic alliances between industry players, governments and stakeholders are vital in addressing global energy challenges.
To drive growth and long-term resilience, the energy industry needs to embrace change, invest in renewable energy solutions, and prioritize sustainability.

Yijiao Huang, Full-Time MBA

Hydrogen hubs boost supply, and soil carbon farming provides new revenue.

Hydrogen hubs are driving progress in the hydrogen supply chain, although challenges remain in funding and strategy.
Soil carbon sequestration gives farmers new revenue opportunities, but education and financing gaps persist.
Momentum and incentives from government and corporations support the advancement of both hydrogen and carbon sequestration solutions.

Dana Vazquez, Full-Time MBA

Climate leadership calls for accelerated action through roadmaps, partnerships, and innovation.

John Kerry: The world has advanced enormously towards a cleaner, more conscious way to power the future; nevertheless we need to accelerate.
Energy transition needs talent, platforms, and partnerships to succeed.
R&D, startups, and technology advancement are key for continued progress.

Mercedes Moncada-Garcia, Full-Time MBA

The energy transition is driven by collaboration and innovation across sectors.

Both traditional and renewable energy sources are essential for an effective transition.
Renewable and energy firms are driving innovation to address complex economic and geopolitical challenges.
Collaborative spirit across industries will offer reassurance amidst challenges in long-term energy and emissions solutions.

McKinley Trusclair, Professional MBA

Advancing computing demands require innovative grid solutions.

Grid stability faces a challenge in the growing energy needs of data centers and AI.
Renewables introduce new grid management complexities.
Advancements in battery storage and intelligent grid tech offer a promising path forward.

Jose Garza, Full-Time MBA