Special Seminar – September 24: “Global Trends in Energy and AI” by Professor Michael E. Webber, The University of Texas at Austin

Dear Faculty Members, Researchers, and Students,

We are pleased to announce the seminar entitled “Global Trends in Energy and AI” to be delivered by Professor Michael E. Webber of the University of Texas at Austin on September 24 at 14:00 in FENS G035.

Please find the abstract of the talk and the short bio of the speaker below:

Abstract:

This talk covers global trends on the convergence of energy, AI, and innovation. The worldwide energy sector is going through dramatic shifts in energy demand, end-uses, and sources. Population growth and economic growth are driving up total demand. Industrialization, electrification and motorization are changing how we use energy, all in a context of geopolitics that are shifting in front of our eyes. And the rapid rise of AI and technological innovation is exacerbating strains on the grid while accelerating the possibility for scientific or operational breakthroughs that solve our resource problems. In parallel, our energy and information sectors are merging to form smarter energy systems and more energy-intensive information systems that create new risks and opportunities. For this talk, Dr. Webber will give an entertaining and big-picture overview of global energy trends mixed in with humorous anecdotes, historical snippets, and unexpected examples that will give a surprising look into the future of energy. 

Bio:

Michael E. Webber is an energy expert, author, and professor who serves as the Sid Richardson Chair in the LBJ School of Public Affairs and the Cockrell Family Chair #16 in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on the intersection of energy, technology, policy, and the environment. Webber has advised governments, companies, and international organizations on energy strategy and sustainability, and he is the author of several books on energy systems and the future of power. He wrote Power Trip: The Story of Energy, the book that inspired the documentary series, bringing together history, science, and global reporting to explain how energy shapes modern civilization.

Throughout his career, he has received the following honors and distinctions:

• 2024 Gold Telly Award, Power Trip: the Story of Energy (PBS Series)
• 2023 Telly Award, Thirst for Power
• 2024 Gold Telly Awards – Power Trip: the Story of Energy Series
• Fulbright Technical Specialist (2024–2027), U.S. Department of State
• Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers
• Presidential Leadership Scholar
• Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Residency (2022)
• American Fellow of the German Marshall Fund 

Best regards,