Bill Gates' Former Climate Lobbyists Launch New Firm

New Organization Rises from Former Breakthrough Energy Team

The energy landscape has seen a shift as former members of Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy organization have established a new nonprofit, the Clean Economy Project. This development follows the disbanding of Breakthrough Energy’s energy policy team earlier in March, which resulted in the departure of numerous staff members.

A Continued Belief in Cost-Effective Clean Energy

Like its predecessor, the Clean Economy Project operates on the premise that clean energy sources will ultimately prove more economically viable than fossil fuels. While acknowledging this may not be the case currently, the organization anticipates this shift occurring in the foreseeable future.

Strategic Restructuring at Breakthrough Energy

Reports from the New York Times in March indicated that Bill Gates made the decision to dismantle Breakthrough Energy’s lobbying efforts. This action was taken in response to a perceived lack of potential for progress while engaging with the Trump administration.

Funding and Objectives of the Clean Economy Project

The Clean Economy Project, often referred to as CleanEcon, is supported by a network of over ten funders. This group comprises both philanthropists and venture capitalists, whose identities remain undisclosed.

Currently staffed by a team of ten individuals, the organization has outlined three primary objectives. These include expediting the development of energy projects, fostering innovation to reduce costs, and mitigating the risks associated with private investment in clean industries, as stated in a recent press release.

Leadership Transition

Aliya Haq, formerly the Vice President of U.S. Policy and Advocacy at Breakthrough Energy for almost six years, now serves as the President of the Clean Economy Project.

Her extensive experience will be instrumental in guiding the organization’s efforts to promote a cleaner energy future.