How States Can Lead on Climate Amid Federal Rollbacks (S2:E9)

Host, Carolyn Parrs sits down with Jordan Gerow, Director of Policy and Research at Climate XChange, to unpack the pivotal role states play in driving climate action—especially as federal protections are rolled back. From managing methane emissions to tackling the energy demands of booming data centers, they explore how bold state policies can keep decarbonization on track while centering equity and energy justice.Learn how states can lead the charge against climate threats, implement smart energy policies, and ensure underserved communities aren’t left behind. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone committed to climate advocacy, policy innovation, and a just energy future.Key InsightsState-level leadership is essential to drive climate action and fill gaps left by federal deregulationClimate XChange monitors policy trends and opportunities across all 50 statesStates can lead on methane regulation and building decarbonization to meet emissions goalsEquity must remain central to all climate and energy policy decisionsData center growth presents both a challenge and an opportunity for smart energy planningStrong collaboration and advocacy are key to advancing impactful local climate solutionsChapters00:00 Introduction to State-Level Climate Action02:02 The Role of Climate Exchange in Policy07:13 Federal Deregulation and Its Impacts10:19 Addressing Methane Emissions13:02 Concrete Actions for Decarbonization15:41 State-Level Progress and Setbacks19:07 Equity in Climate Policy21:06 Navigating Data Center Growth24:42 Innovations in Energy Policy28:22 Call to Action for Policymakers32:56 Sustaining Momentum in Climate AdvocacyAbout Climate XChange State Climate Policy Dashboard: https://www.climatepolicydashboard.org/State Climate Policy Network: https://climate-xchange.org/network/Website: http://climate-xchange.orgArticle: “How States Can Fill the Gaps Left by the EPA's Climate Deregulation" by Jordan Gerow:  https://climate-xchange.org/2025/03/how-states-can-fill-the-gaps-left-by-the-epas-climate-deregulation/About Just Power PodcastJust Power is a clean energy transition podcast focused on grid modernization, affordability, community engagement, and energy justice — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities.About Carolyn ParrsCarolyn Parrs is the CEO of Mind Over Markets, a branding and messaging firm that helps sustainable businesses and energy organizations communicate with clarity and power. Learn more at:Website: https://mindovermarkets.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindovermarketsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/About Just Power PodcastJust Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.🔔 Never Miss an Update! Subscribe NowYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJustPowerPodcast?sub_confirmation=1💖 Spread the LoveLike, comment, and share this episode with a friend, policy maker, or energy provider who needs to hear this mYouTubeFacebookInstagramNew Mexico State University MicrolearningMind Over MarketsLinkedIn