CNA Energy, Water, & Climate

Projections of energy futures for the U.S. suggest that electricity generation will grow by about 30 percent by 2035. Some studies suggest that expansion of conventional thermo-electric power production and economic growth will be constrained because water supplies may be insufficient.

Competing water and energy demands can be intensified by poor water-management policies, climate change, and energy and other policies crafted without consideration of water constraints. Key energy models used for policymaking in the U.S. assume that water is free and infinitely abundant.

CNA's Institute for Public Research has launched a new area of analysis focused on integrated analysis of energy, water, and climate linkages. Understanding the implications of these linkages will support the development of sound policies and programs that will improve energy security, foster efficiency, and improve the likelihood of a secure, climate-friendly energy future.

For more information, please contact Paul Faeth, 703.824.2286.

Featured Articles and Events:

• Paul Faeth spoke at the Washington Energy Policy Conference about "Synergies Between Energy, Water Use, and GHG Mitigation in Texas" on April 9, 2013.
• Paul Faeth spoke about "Policy Analysis for the Energy-Water Nexus in ERCOT" at the WSWC-WGA Energy-Water Workshop on April 2, 2013.
• Goldman Sachs mentions Paul Faeth in the white paper, "Water: Emerging Risks & Opportunities."
• Sherri Goodman and General Gordon Sullivan, USA (Ret.). "Climate Change Is ‘Threat Multiplier." Politico (February 7, 2013).
• Paul Faeth spoke at Water: Emerging Risks and Opportunities Summit on February 8, 2013.
• Al Jazeera quotes Paul Faeth in the article "U.S. To Become 'Net Energy Exporter'" on January 7, 2013.
• Paul Faeth spoke at Total Energy USA about "An Environmental View of Fracking" on November 27-29, 2012.
• Tim O’Riordan. "Editorial - Multiplying Costly Scarcities for Even More Costly Growth." Environment Magazine (January-February 2012).
• Paul Faeth. "U.S. Energy Security and Water: The Challenges We Face." Environment Magazine (January-February 2012).
• Paul Faeth and Erika Weinthal. "How Access to Clean Water Prevents Conflict." Solutions 3.1 (January 2012).