Entrepreneurs, investors, technologists, and senior policymakers from California, Canada, and China will mingle with the public at the Third Annual Emerging Energy Technologies Summit on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 8 and 9, in Corwin Pavilion.

As demand for efficient and clean energy rises around the world, California’s technology, as well as its economic and political capital, are helping to bring about change. At the College of Engineering’s Technology Management Program-sponsored summit, representatives from the California Energy Commission, PG&E, and Sempra Energy will discuss funding opportunities, while international venture capitalists will share investment information on what types of energy solutions they are funding and why.

“This annual energy summit has proven to be an important venue for identification of early stage technologies, funding opportunities, and potential deal generation between researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors, complemented by insights from policymakers,” said Gary Hansen, associate dean for TMP.

Regional energy partnerships are one of the conference themes. China, for example, is a large market driver of energy costs. Its response to such demands provides opportunity for North American firms to address critical global problems and accelerate the next wave in technology innovation. Presenters to address this topic will include Cambridge Energy Research Associates, Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd., and UCSB’s Partnership (China-U.S.) for International Research and Education.

British Columbia, long a bridge to the Pacific Rim, works across borders creating innovative public and private partnerships to stimulate economic growth and energy solutions. British Columbia energy technology business leaders will speak at the summit, along with representatives from the Canada-California Strategic Innovation Partnership Initiative, British Columbia Premier’s Technology Council and Climate Action Team, and BC Hydro.

The registration fee for the two-day conference is structured with discounts for students ($25) and UC employees ($130). More information on the energy summit is available at <http://www.c2c.ucsb.edu/summit2008/>.