James Rogers, Duke Energy CEO & President, Talks about 21st Century Energy Efficiency
James E. Rogers, the CEO and President of Duke Energy, was the invited lecturer for the 2nd Annual Schultz Lectureship Series, funded by the generosity of John H. and Cynthia H. Schultz. Dean David Getches introduced James Rogers to a full house yesterday evening as, “not typical nor predictable.” As newly re-elected CEO of the 3rd largest emitter of carbon, Rogers strongly believes in a commitment to the environment. His lecture began with a hope that there will be greater understanding about the way toward energy efficiency in the 21st century, which should include the use of solar, wind, and nuclear power.
His solution encompasses affordability and reliability of electricity and energy efficiency. “It can be achieved by modernizing and decarbonizing the generational supply of electricity in our country while making communities more energy efficient.” He is delighted about the U.S. House of Representatives passing the Waxman-Markey Bill that would incentivize companies to become more energy efficient. The bill would cap greenhouse gas emissions and put a price on carbon.
Throughout the lecture, Rogers advocated for energy efficiency NOW. “Energy efficiency must be ‘cathedral thinking’ based on a common vision, faith the project can be completed, and a commitment, but it must be implemented on ‘China time’.”