.
Agrawal: So, what you’re saying is that the investments in clean energy are here to stay, regardless of what the Trump administration may try to do?
Podesta: Absolutely. The clean energy sector is a growing industry, and it’s not just about climate change. It’s about creating jobs, it’s about reducing our dependence on foreign oil, it’s about national security. So, I think those investments are going to continue, and I think the private sector is going to continue to invest in clean energy because it makes economic sense.
Agrawal: But what about the regulatory framework? Trump has promised to roll back regulations on the oil and gas industry. How will that impact the clean energy sector?
Podesta: Well, I think it’s going to be a challenge, but I think the private sector is going to continue to invest in clean energy because it makes economic sense. And I think that’s going to continue, regardless of what the regulatory framework is. Obviously, we would like to see strong regulations in place to protect the environment and to address climate change, but I think the private sector is going to continue to invest in clean energy because it’s a smart business decision.
Agrawal: So, what can the Biden administration do to ensure that the clean energy sector continues to grow and thrive, despite potential challenges from the Trump administration?
Podesta: Well, I think there are a number of things that we can do. First and foremost, we can continue to make investments in clean energy research and development. We can also work with the private sector to create incentives for clean energy investments. And we can also work with our international partners to create a global market for clean energy technologies. So, there are a number of things that we can do to continue to support the growth of the clean energy sector.
Agrawal: And what about the international aspect of this? The Paris climate agreement was a major achievement for the Obama administration. How will the Biden administration work to ensure that the U.S. remains a leader in the fight against climate change?
Podesta: Well, I think the first thing we need to do is rejoin the Paris climate agreement. That’s going to be a top priority for the Biden administration. And then, we need to work with our international partners to increase our ambition and to make sure that we’re on track to meet the goals of the Paris agreement. We also need to work with other countries to support their efforts to reduce emissions and to transition to clean energy. So, there’s a lot of work to be done on the international front, but I think the Biden administration is committed to being a leader in the fight against climate change.
Agrawal: And finally, what message do you have for those who may be concerned about the future of clean energy under a Trump administration?
Podesta: I would say that the clean energy sector is here to stay. It’s a growing industry, and it’s not just about climate change. It’s about creating jobs, it’s about reducing our dependence on foreign oil, it’s about national security. So, I think the investments in clean energy are going to continue, and I think the private sector is going to continue to invest in clean energy because it makes economic sense. So, I would say to those who are concerned, have faith in the resilience of the clean energy sector and the commitment of the Biden administration to addressing climate change.