A conversation between Bert Dallas, Clerk of Radnor Meeting’s Climate Action Committee (host) and Liz Robinson, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Solar Energy Association (guest). Guest Introduction Liz Robinson is the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Solar Energy Association. Prior to that, she directed the Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA) for over 30 years and co-founded the Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance. Personal Background & Formative Values Liz shares the experiences that shaped her worldview. Growing up as an Air Force “brat,” she lived across the U.S. and Europe, developing a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and a strong interest in world peace — influenced in part by her father’s experience as a WWII prisoner of war. Her birth order as the only girl with two older brothers also shaped her as a natural peacemaker. She credits her father with instilling a spiritual connection to the natural world, and notes a family tradition of lively, open political debate that made her comfortable navigating differing opinions. Professional Journey Liz began her career in education and community development, working with disadvantaged youth. She founded the Energy Coordinating Agency in the 1980s in response to Philadelphia’s energy crisis, bringing together religious, political, and advocacy communities. The ECA grew to 160 staff and 16 neighborhood energy centers. Her work has always been grounded in equity — connecting low-income communities to affordable energy solutions. Energy Democracy & Core Vision A central theme of the conversation is energy democracy — making clean, affordable energy accessible to every person and community. Liz argues that the current monopolistic utility structure is harmful and that solar, wind, and battery storage together can power the world. She emphasizes that renewables are already cheaper than fossil fuels and that the technology (heat pumps, EVs, induction stoves, balcony solar) is ready and advancing rapidly. Fossil Fuel Industry & Misinformation Bert and Liz discuss how the fossil fuel industry has muddied public understanding through misinformation — particularly lobbying in Harrisburg and elsewhere with misleading claims about renewable energy reliability. Liz stresses the importance of providing accurate, timely, and accessible information to help people understand the real path forward. Pennsylvania & Legislative Work Pennsylvania is highlighted as a particularly challenging state given the deep roots of coal, oil, and natural gas industries. However, Liz sees a shifting legislative landscape, with a Democratic majority in the House and the possibility of flipping the Senate — a potential game changer for clean energy policy. Quakers, Simplicity & Climate Action The conversation weaves in Quaker values — simplicity, integrity, and peace — as deeply aligned with the clean energy transition. Both Bert and Liz see Quakers as well-positioned to lead climate action, citing their education, trust networks, and communication strengths. Liz is actively working with the Quaker Action Mid-Atlantic Region and the Eco Justice Collaborative to make climate action more accessible. Education & Grassroots Organizing Liz emphasizes energy literacy starting at the middle school level, her work educating teachers through Philly Solar, and the importance of coalition building. She encourages everyone to get involved in lobbying legislators — describing it as accessible, learnable, and even fun. Endurance & Motivation When asked how she sustains her energy, Liz points to the joy of problem-solving and the satisfaction of incremental progress. Patience and persistence, she says, are essential — but so is a healthy impatience that channels energy into action. Closing Liz encourages listeners to join local groups, put their shoulder to the wheel, and bring others along. The episode closes with mutual appreciation and a shared sense of urgency and optimism.