Credit – Photo-Illustration by TIME (Source Image: Courtesy of Colin Wessells)

Colin Wessells is the founder and co-CEO of Natron Energy, a company manufacturing sodium-ion batteries to power clean technologies. Since sodium is more abundant and affordable than lithium, sodium-ion batteries could help strengthen battery supply chains and accelerate the energy transition. Thanks to Wessells’ vision, Natron is the first – and only – commercial producer of sodium-ion batteries in the United States. This year, the company announced plans to expand massively by building a 437-acre “gigafactory” in North Carolina, capable of producing 24 gigawatts of batteries and expected to add $3.4 billion to the state’s economy over the next 12 years.

What do you think is the most important action that the public, or a specific business or government (other than yours), should take in the next year to advance the climate agenda?

The Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most significant climate laws ever passed in the United States, and it has had ripples around the world. Other governments – including the European Union and Canada – have developed similar policies to ensure they are not left behind in the race to develop the clean energy industries that will power the 21st century. The IRA catalyzed a manufacturing renaissance in the United States, and Natron is proud to be a part of it.

With this in mind, the most important thing the American public and its representatives in Congress can do now is build on this progress. Recognize the real, tangible impact of these tax credits and funding opportunities in communities across the country, champion and expand those that have been successful, and refine those that need improvement. Clean energy is a critical part of our future, and we want to ensure that the United States continues to lead the way.

What is the most important climate legislation that could be passed next year?

The most important climate legislation that has a realistic chance of passing next year is the one authorizing reform. Across the country, countless projects that would have demonstrable climate benefits are being scaled back or canceled due to delays in the permitting process, including transmission lines to transport clean electricity from where it is produced where it is consumed. We must of course be thoughtful to ensure that we protect the health and wellbeing of the people who live alongside these projects. But reducing redundant efforts at the local, state and federal levels would make a real difference.

If you could stand up and speak to world leaders at the next United Nations climate conference, what would you say?

If I have the opportunity to speak with world leaders at the next COP, I would like to highlight the urgent need for continued innovation in clean energy technologies that can transform critical energy markets, industry and energy network worldwide. The path forward requires not only commitment, but also a paradigm shift in how we approach clean energy innovation. Many of the technologies needed for clean energy already exist but require financing.

The climate crisis is not just an environmental problem, it is an innovation challenge. We have the talent, technology and tenacity to revolutionize our energy landscape. What we need now is unwavering support to accelerate this transformation. I would call on world leaders to champion a global innovation ecosystem that fosters breakthrough clean energy solutions. This means increased funding for research and development, streamlined regulatory processes for emerging technologies, and incentives that encourage rapid adoption of sustainable alternatives.

But innovation alone is not enough. We also need to focus on scalability and accessibility. The solutions we develop must be viable not only in rich countries, but also in developing economies. This requires collaborative efforts to reduce costs, improve infrastructure and provide technical assistance across borders.

Incremental change is not enough. It is imperative that we build a future in which clean energy is not just an alternative, but the norm.

Contact us at [email protected].