Across three panels, the event explores the legal foundations and constitutional implications of municipal climate lawsuits, alongside a broader reassessment of energy and climate strategy in an AI-driven economy. Speakers will engage questions of federalism, institutional competence, and the policy frameworks most likely to support innovation, economic growth, and resilience. Together, the discussions aim to clarify the stakes of today’s climate and energy debates—and what they mean for the future of law, markets, and technological progress.
11:30 AM | Welcome Remarks & Lunch Buffet
11:45 AM – 1:00 PM | A Look at Key Findings in the DoE Climate Report
This panel will examine the Department of Energy’s 2025 report, A Critical Review of Impacts of Greenhouse Gas Emissions on the U.S. Climate, focusing on three core areas: whether trends in heat, precipitation, and hurricanes are worsening; how accurately climate models are tracking observed surface and atmospheric temperatures over the past century; and the extent to which climate change is likely to affect long-term economic growth.
John Christy — University of Alabama
Andrew Dessler — Texas A&M
Steve Koonin — Hoover Institution
Ross McKitrick — University of Guelph
Moderator: Michael Toth — Civitas Institute
1:00 – 1:15 PM | Break
1:15 – 2:30 PM | Courts, Cities, and Climate: The Municipal Litigation Wave
Cities across the country are turning to the courts to address climate-related claims. Panelists will discuss the legal theories behind these suits, their implications for federalism and separation of powers, and the broader policy consequences.
Jonathan Adler — William & Mary
Todd Zywicki — George Mason
Michael Toth — Civitas Institute
Moderator: John Yoo — Civitas Institute; UC Berkeley
2:30 – 2:45 PM | Break
2:45 – 4:00 PM | Rethinking Energy and Climate Strategy in an AI-Driven Economy
Scientific debates over climate risk now operate alongside a rapidly accelerating AI economy with immense energy requirements. Panelists will examine competing narratives about climate risk, the reliability of current models, and the policy pathways that best support technological and economic growth. Together they will assess what a resilient, innovation-driven energy future requires.
Lynne Keisling — Northwestern University
Jessica Weinkle — University of North Carolina
Steve Hayward — Pepperdine University
Moderator: Linda Denno — UC Berkeley
4:00 – 5:30 PM | Closing Reception
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