Lecture To Offer Post-Copenhagen View On Clean Energy Technology And Policy From A Local And Regional Perspective

(Abu Dhabi, UAE)  12th May 2010 - Masdar Institute of Science and Technology has announced it will host a public lecture on 16th May in Abu Dhabi by renowned academic Prof. Ernie Moniz, Director of the Energy Initiative, and Director of the Laboratory for Energy and the Environment at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

The public lecture - entitled 'Clean Energy Technology and Policy: A Post-Copenhagen View' offers an unrivalled opportunity to gain a direct insight from one of the foremost experts within the energy spectrum. With specific reference to Abu Dhabi and the region, Prof. Moniz, an advisor to President Obama of the United States of America, will discuss technology pathways to a low carbon future, with an emphasis on synergistic technology, business models, and policy innovations, as he addresses the enormous energy challenge the world faces.

"This initiative led by Masdar Institute will raise our public awareness about the world's on-going progress to develop and deploy a sustainable energy system, in response to climate change and future energy challenges. It coincides with our leadership's current efforts to build the technological and regulatory foundation for low carbon economy", added Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Masdar CEO.

Open to the public the free lecture from 5pm - 6.30pm, held in the Crowne Plaza, Yas Island, will be of particular relevance to scientists, academics, professors, industrial researchers, corporate leaders and government officials as well as those with a general interest in energy solutions and climate change amongst the wider community in the UAE.

"Masdar Institute is delighted to offer the general public the opportunity to discuss some of the world's greatest challenges with one of the most critical thinkers and acclaimed academics in science and technology. Prof. Moniz is a hugely influential figure helping to direct research and shape policy within the fields of energy and the environment in the United States through MIT. Undoubtedly the evening will be highly insightful and engaging, stimulating debate and discussion with Prof. Moniz taking questions following an informative presentation", explained the Provost of Masdar Institute, Dr. John Perkins.

A member of faculty at Masdar Institute's collaborating partner MIT since 1973, Prof. Moniz is widely recognized for his outstanding service and contribution to energy technology and policy studies, currently serving on President Obama's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology and on the Blue Ribbon Commission on America's Nuclear Future.

Highlights of Prof. Moniz's distinguished career include numerous public positions serving as Under Secretary of the Department of Energy during the Clinton Administration, as well as the Associate Director for Science in the Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Executive Office of the President.  At MIT, he is the Cecil and Ida Green Professor of Physics and Engineering Systems and has served as Head of the Department of Physics and as Director of the Bates Linear Accelerator.  Prof Moniz, is also the Director of the MIT Energy Initiative, of which Masdar Institute is a Founding Public Member.  

Masdar Institute of Science and Technology is looking forward to welcoming you to this special event;

Details

Public Lecture -

Clean Energy Technology and Policy: A Post-Copenhagen View Dr Ernie Moniz, Director of the Energy Initiative, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Presentation followed by Question & Answer Session, 5 pm - 6.30pm, 16th May 2010

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Ballroom, Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi

Light Refreshments will be served

To RSVP please contact; MIRSVP@masdar.ac.ae

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About MIT Energy Initiative
The MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI), established in September 2006, is an Institute-wide initiative designed to help transform the global energy system to meet the needs of the future and to help build a bridge to that future by improving today's energy systems.

MITEI's research program
Through its research program, MITEI addresses a critical link in the energy innovation chain--the pairing of MIT's world-class research teams with the best in industry who will be responsible for moving the products of this collaboration into the energy marketplace. The structure of MITEI supports research that addresses key industrial concerns including the development through basic research of enabling energy technologies that have the potential to address multiple energy challenges; the delivery of energy products and services at scale; and the provision of energy products and services in highly complex policy, legal and regulatory environments.

For more information please contact:
Stephen Reid
Hill & Knowlton
Tel: +971 (0) 509 201 227
Email: Stephen.reid@hillandknowlton.com

© Press Release 2010