Recently, CRES Forum hosted a packed evening at the Capitol Hill Club exploring how the 49th state is leading America’s next chapter of energy innovation and development. The event, “Unleashing Alaska: Energy from the Last Frontier,” featured members of Alaska’s congressional delegation and energy industry leaders focused on responsible resource development and energy security.
With over 60 attendees, the event drew significant engagement from all corners of Washington D.C. eager to learn about Alaska’s central role in advancing America’s energy future.
Moderated by CRES Forum’s Senior Vice President Christina Baworowsky, the program included a series of armchair discussions featuring:
- Congressman Nicholas Begich (Alaska-AL)
- Larry Burton, Chief of Staff to Senator Dan Sullivan (Alaska)
- Judy Brown, Head of External Affairs, Americas, South32
Panelists discussed the significance of President Trump’s recent Executive Order, “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Energy Resource Potential,” underscoring Alaska’s energy leadership, U.S. energy independence and global competitiveness.
Throughout the program, speakers highlighted the need for durable, comprehensive permitting reform to accelerate responsible infrastructure and energy development. With over 1,000 U.S. projects worth an estimated $11–11.5 trillion awaiting approval, panelists emphasized that streamlined permitting, judicial certainty and predictable timelines are essential to unlocking investment and innovation nationwide.
Attendees also heard how Alaska continues to balance economic opportunities with environmental stewardship, demonstrating that energy abundance and conservation can go hand in hand while benefiting local communities.
As the nation works to modernize its energy infrastructure and strengthen domestic supply chains, CRES Forum remains committed to advancing policies that empower states like Alaska to lead through innovation, responsible development and conservative energy solutions.