Ep. 21 - Power in the Wind: Alicia Gené Artessa on Policy, Politics & New York’s Offshore Future

In this episode, we sit down with Alicia Gené Artessa, Esq., Director of the New York Offshore Wind Alliance (NYOWA), to explore the real forces shaping New York’s clean energy future from state politics and legislative processes to the promise of offshore wind as a tool for climate and economic transformation.A seasoned attorney and government relations strategist, Alicia brings over seven years of experience working in the New York State Senate, leading lobbying campaigns, and crafting some of the state’s most consequential energy and environmental policies. Now, as the Director of NYOWA, she’s at the center of New York’s offshore wind buildout pushing for bold climate action and ensuring this generational opportunity delivers for all New Yorkers.Alicia breaks down:Her journey from Assistant Counsel in the NYS Senate to becoming a leading voice in clean energyThe role of NYOWA in accelerating offshore wind and advancing New York’s climate goalsHow policy, politics, and public education intersect in the energy transitionWhat it takes to turn a complex, technical industry into a movement that resonates with communitiesThe behind-the-scenes work of coalition building, budget negotiations, and environmental lawHer advice for young professionals,entering policy and climate spacesBefore leading NYOWA, Alicia was a Vice President at one of Albany’s top lobbying firms, specializing in renewable energy, education, and environmental issues. She also served as an Assistant Counsel in the New York State Senate, where she played a pivotal role in shaping legislative and budget priorities across a range of sectors, including energy, telecommunications, housing, and agriculture.A proud graduate of Vermont Law School, Alicia holds both a Juris Doctor and a Master’s in Environmental Law and Policy. Today, she continues to shape the energy and policy landscape with clarity, purpose, and an unwavering belief in New York’s clean energy promise.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Policy & Culture for more bold conversations with the people driving policy, shifting culture, and shaping the future.Support the showThanks for tuning in to Policy & Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and people. We’re your hosts, Dan Lloyd and Drew Ayodeji.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform — Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen.For more content and updates, follow us on social media:📱 Instagram: @PolicynCulture🌐 Visit our website: www.policynculture.comHave a question or want to suggest a guest or topic? Email us: [email protected] the showThanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Dan Lloyd and Drew Ayodeji.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.For more content and updates, follow us on social media:Instagram: @PolicynCultureVisit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at [email protected], staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.