Last week, EWTC’s Energy Technology Committee hosted the Energy Technology & Policy Summit in partnership with Sustainability & Energy Value Advisors (SEVA), Greater Houston Partnership (GHP), and Houston Energy Transition Initiative (HETI). The conference held at GHP in Houston brought together more than two dozen industry leaders to explore the technologies, policies, and market shaping the future of energy. Throughout the day, attendees gained insights from experts representing industry, government, utilities, investment firms, and energy transition organizations.
The morning sessions explored the evolving policy landscape, electricity markets, and the opportunities and challenges facing the industry.
Tim Tarpley of EWTC, Jack Belcher of SEVA, and Sophia Cunningham of HETI opened the conference by highlighting Houston’s role as a global energy hub and discussing the vital role energy services will play in the future of energy.
During a fireside chat, Maynard Holt of Veriten and Leslie Shockley Beyer of Cornerstone Government Affairs discussed the intersection of public policy, investment, and advisory services. Their conversation explored major forces shaping today’s energy landscape, including artificial intelligence, energy security, and global market dynamics.
The panel, Industry Approaches to the Changing Policy Landscape, featured Brent Greenfield of Cornerstone Government Affairs, Christopher Olson of Weatherford, Jane Stricker of MJS Energy Advisory Services, and Tarpley of EWTC. Panelists discussed the impact of tariffs on the energy sector, rising electricity demand driven by AI and data centers, permitting reform, and global energy security concerns. The conversation underscored how policy decisions continue to influence investment, infrastructure development, and business operations across the industry.
A highlight of the morning was the keynote address from Representative Randy Weber (TX-14). Congressman Weber reflected on Texas’ longstanding role in powering America and highlighted the strategic importance of the Gulf Coast, energy infrastructure, LNG development, and Texas ports in supporting U.S. energy leadership.
The discussion continued with the panel, What Does the Future Hold for Electricity Markets?, featuring James Slutz of the National Petroleum Council, Chad Seely of ERCOT, Nick Morriss of Veriten, and Jack Belcher of SEVA. Panelists examined the intersection of natural gas and electricity markets, the challenges associated with rising power demand, and ERCOT’s efforts to expand grid capacity. They also discussed how geopolitical uncertainty and infrastructure constraints continue to influence energy markets.
The morning concluded with remarks from EWTC President Tim Tarpley, who highlighted upcoming programs, initiatives, and opportunities for member engagement.
Building on the morning’s discussions, the afternoon sessions focused on corporate culture, carbon management, and power generation. These conversations explored how organizations can manage risk, advance innovation, and meet the growing energy demand in an increasingly complex operating environment.
During the panel, Evaluating Corporate Culture: Its Connection to Safety and Risk Management, Bethany Andell of Savage Brands, Roy Hartstein of Responsible Energy Solutions, David Warnick of ChasmBridge, Andrea Sanchez of ENGIE, Alec Campbell, M.A. of Aon, and Kyle Armstrong, CSP, CRIS, of Aon discussed the connection between corporate culture, operational excellence, and safety. Speakers emphasized that consistency across all areas of an organization helps reduce risk and strengthen performance. The discussion also highlighted the importance of approachable leadership and open communication at every level of a company.
The Carbon Management panel featured Paul Dunn of Cat Oil & Gas and Marine Division, Jesse West of SLB, Hack Heyward of Gulf Energy Catalyst, and Sophia Cunningham of HETI. Panelists explored the current state of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), noting its continued momentum and relatively stable policy environment. They also discussed the role of Department of Energy funding in supporting CCUS projects and advancing the development of carbon management technologies.
The day concluded with the Power Generation panel, featuring Jason Ryan of CenterPoint Energy, Nash Whitney of Stella Power Company, Craig Lange of WestRiver Group, and Kera Gautreau of HETI. Panelists examined strategies to meet growing power demand, including improving grid efficiency, leveraging renewable energy resources, and increasing natural gas generation. The discussion also emphasized the critical role of investment, infrastructure development, and market incentives in supporting future power needs.
A special thank you to our sponsors and event partners: Aon, Baker Tilly US, World Oil, SEVA, GHP, and HETI.
Jessica Santos, Director Government Affairs, writes about industry-specific policies for the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
