Carlos Aguiar

Academic Fellow 2023
City Energy Manager
City of Phoenix
Bio

Highly accomplished and driven professional with a strong academic background in Sustainable Energy. I hold a Ph.D. in Sustainable Energy from Arizona State University, where my research focused on innovation systems for sustainable energy, with a particular emphasis on wind, solar, and green hydrogen technologies. In addition, my expertise lies in energy management, renewable energy integration, and policy development for sustainable energy solutions.

As the City Energy Manager at the Office of Sustainability in the City of Phoenix, I lead the development of energy management policies and models, aligning them with the city's sustainability goals. I oversee Energy Service Companies (ESCO) and renewable energy projects, driving project design, implementation, and renewable energy procurement. Additionally, I participate in advisory groups related to energy planning and sustainability.

Previously, as a Data Research Aide at ASU's Knowledge Exchange for Resilience, I analyzed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and extreme heat on electricity demand in Maricopa County. I also researched energy efficiency regulations and designed energy-based solutions for heat resilience.

With my experience as the Development Director at the Energy Commission of the State of Sonora, Mexico, I supported the analysis and development of utility-scale renewable energy projects. I also developed strong relationships with strategic stakeholders, fostering collaboration and supporting the growth of renewable energy technologies.

In addition to my professional experience, I have teaching experience as a Teaching Assistant, where I mentored and supervised students in sustainable cities and energy systems classes. I am also actively engaged in volunteer work, serving as a Delegate of the Energy Committee at the Arizona-Mexico Commission and as a member of the Hermosillo Committee at Phoenix Sister Cities.

My dedication to excellence has been recognized through fellowships, grants, and awards, including the U.S. Department of Energy's Clean Energy to Communities Program and the Knowledge Exchange for Resilience Fellowship. In addition, I have published research papers and have several working papers focused on renewable energy innovation and policy.

I possess a strong analytical mindset and have expertise in qualitative and quantitative energy research. Fluent in English and Spanish, I excel in cross-cultural environments and effectively communicate complex concepts.

I welcome the opportunity to connect and explore ways we can collaborate for a sustainable future.