On a Tuesday in August, more than 20 leaders in the energy sector representing 23 countries around the world, such as China, Egypt, Venezuela and Poland, visited Gardenia to learn more about our innovative renewable energy practices and sustainability initiatives. The event was organized by the World Affairs Council of Central Florida, and the group was part of the United States Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program, which allows current and emerging foreign leaders in a variety of fields to experience the U.S. firsthand and cultivate lasting relationships with their American counterparts.
Justin Kramer, Engineering Project Manager for Emerging Technologies, presented an overview of the Commission and our commitment to renewable energy, and gave the group a tour of the floating solar array, Living Wall and Rain Harvest Garden. “It’s an honor to host energy leaders from so many different backgrounds,” said Kramer. “Being able to exchange ideas and hear about renewable innovation happening in other areas of the world solidifies that what we’re doing here is part of a strong global initiative.” During their stay in America, the group was introduced to U.S. energy policies, including clean energy and alternative fuel science, and U.S. efforts to promote international cooperation of global sustainability.