U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright Visits MIT to Discuss Innovation

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright visited the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) on March 4, 2024, where he met with university leaders and engaged in discussions on energy innovation. The visit included a campus forum, poster presentations from researchers funded through the MIT-GE Vernova Energy and Climate Alliance, and demonstrations of energy research in the laboratory where Wright once studied.

During the forum, Wright emphasized the significance of the energy sector, stating, “I’ve always been in energy because I think it’s just far and away the world’s most important industry.” He participated in a panel discussion alongside business leaders and held a fireside chat with Ernest Moniz, MIT professor and former U.S. Secretary of Energy from 2013 to 2017. Wright remarked on the current state of the energy industry, describing it as “an awesomely exciting time to be in energy.”

Wright was welcomed by Sally Kornbluth, MIT’s president, who highlighted the enduring qualities of the institution. “MIT is still MIT,” Kornbluth said, emphasizing its commitment to merit, boldness, and scientific rigor. She noted the critical role MIT plays in developing innovative approaches to enhance U.S. energy security and reliability.

The forum also featured a discussion on the need for ongoing innovation across various energy technologies, including fusion and geothermal energy. Wright, who was confirmed as Secretary of Energy by the Senate in February, previously served as the founder and CEO of Liberty Energy and has extensive experience in the energy sector.

In a dynamic exchange with Moniz, Wright addressed the interconnectedness of climate, energy security, equity, and affordability. Moniz stated, “Climate, energy, security, equity, affordability, have to be recognized as one conversation, and not separate conversations.” This holistic view reflects the complexities involved in tackling global energy challenges.

Wright’s visit was part of the Energy Freedom Tour, organized by the American Conservation Coalition (ACC) in collaboration with the Hamm Institute for American Energy at Oklahoma State University. Following MIT, the tour will continue to Stanford University and Texas A&M University.

During the forum, Ann Bluntzer Pullin, executive director of the Hamm Institute, underscored the importance of inspiring students about careers in the energy sector. She praised MIT’s role in fostering innovation, stating, “This is where so many ideas were born and executed that have allowed America to really thrive in this energy abundance.”

The event included a panel discussion featuring Wright and several MIT alumni actively involved in the energy industry, including Carlos Araque, CEO of Quaise Energy; Bob Mumgaard, CEO of Commonwealth Fusion Systems; and Milo Werner, a general partner at DCVC. The panel was moderated by Chris Barnard, president of the ACC.

Mumgaard highlighted Commonwealth Fusion Systems’ mission to advance fusion energy, while Araque emphasized the advantages of geothermal energy. Werner noted that the real impact of innovation is seen when technological advances transition from the lab to commercial viability.

After the forum, Wright toured various research facilities on the MIT campus, including the MIT.nano facility, guided by Vladimir Bulović, faculty director of MIT.nano. He observed the Titan Krios G3i electron microscope, which enables high-resolution imaging of tiny particles for diverse research applications.

In a poignant moment, Wright viewed the One.MIT mosaics, which honor over 300,000 individuals associated with MIT. He found his name etched among the figures on the MIT seal, illustrating the legacy of the institution.

The tour concluded at the refurbished Grainger Energy Machine Facility, where Wright once conducted research. He engaged with current graduate students, discussing their energy-generation projects. This interaction underscored the importance of mentorship and collaboration between seasoned professionals and the next generation of energy innovators.

Anantha Chandrakasan, MIT’s Provost, delivered closing remarks, affirming MIT’s commitment to its partnership with the Department of Energy and its historical engagement with industry. He welcomed collaborations that serve the nation’s energy needs, reinforcing MIT’s role as a vital resource in energy innovation.