The Economic Power of Clean Energy

J. Drake Hamilton is Fresh Energy’s science policy director. An expert in climate and energy policy at the state and national levels, her work has helped make Minnesota a leader in the clean energy economy. Her responsibilities include scientific analysis and policy development of clean energy solutions to global warming that will maximize economic opportunities. Hamilton represents Fresh Energy at global climate summits, and witnessed the historic 2015 Paris Agreement; she showcased Minnesota’s nation-leading deep carbon reductions at the 2017 Bonn Climate Summit.

Each year, J. Drake Hamilton gives more than 50 invited presentations on the economic and health benefits of clean energy to businesses and civic organizations. Her recent business audiences have included 3M, Target, Allina Health, and Medtronic. Her frequent media appearances include television, Minnesota Public Radio, and business press as well as the Washington Post and New York Times.

J. Drake Hamilton earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in physical geography from Dartmouth College and the University of Minnesota, with an emphasis on climatology and water resources, and was formerly assistant
professor at The George Washington University. She ranks among the top 12 climate communicators internationally. Minneapolis-St. Paul Magazine named Hamilton “one of Minnesota’s 100 influential people who make things happen.” She also grows organic peaches, pears, apples, and plums that have won blue ribbons at the Minnesota State Fair.