Welcome to the Nevada Climate Forum!
The online Forum is hosted by the Nevada Climate Team. It features presentations and panel discussions on climate solutions and climate challenges in Nevada. We hope to stimulate dialogue and networking to move our state towards robust progress.
To register for an event, click the button below. Please check back as new events will be posted throughout the year. Or join the mailing list by emailing Brian.Thornton.NV@gmail.com.
See What’s Up Next
Regional Heat Planning and Response
June 17, 2:00-3:00 PM
Reno and Las Vegas were the two fastest warming cities in the U.S. from 1970-2025 according to Climate Central. This is due to both rapid urban growth and climate change. Nevada recognized this in 2024 by passing AB96 which requires Clark and Washoe counties to incorporate heat mitigation planning in their master plans, a process that includes the participation of the cities in the regions. The bill requires considering strategies such as public cooling spaces, public drinking water and shade over paved spaces. Representatives from jurisdictions in Clark and Washoe counties will discuss their work to incorporate extreme heat into regional master plans. They will also share their efforts to implement tangible mitigation and adaptation measures in their communities.
Panelists:
- Robert Burgy, Climate and Sustainability Program Manager, Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability
- Marco Velotta, Chief Sustainability Officer, City of Las Vegas
- Kat Oakley, Planning Manager, Washoe County
- Brian Beffort, Washoe County Sustainability Manager
- Suzanne Groneman, Environmental Services Manager, City of Reno
Transmission, the Missing Link to Clean Energy
July 22, 2:00-3:00 PM
A modern grid is essential for the clean energy transition, but the Western U.S. lacks the transmission capacity needed to connect large amounts of solar, wind, geothermal, and storage. WestTEC’s 10‑year study identifies $60 billion in needed upgrades, with its 20‑year analysis expected to show even more. New transmission faces major hurdles—local opposition, long permitting timelines, cost‑sharing disputes, and wildfire‑related liability concerns. This session will examine the region’s grid‑modernization challenge and how planning efforts like WestTEC shape discussions on permitting, cost allocation, resource adequacy, affordability, and community and tribal benefits.
Panelists: (coming soon)
Nevada Climate Forum 