This seminar will discuss how the Canadian Energy Systems Analysis Research (CESAR) initiative is using the methodology of the Transition Accelerator to build support for a hydrogen economy anchored by heavy freight transport. This technology has the potential to dramatically reduce demand for diesel fuel while stimulating the economy and mitigating climate change.

Dr. David Layzell works with innovative industry, governments and  academics to identify and deploy credible and compelling transition pathways that are capable of transforming Canada into a vibrant, low-carbon economy. His research program, CESAR, uses analytical and modeling tools to explore how existing or new technology, business models, and policy or social innovations could transform or disrupt the systems that Canadians use for societal provisioning. Before launching CESAR in 2013, Dr. Layzell was Executive Director of the Institute for Sustainable Energy, Environment and Economy (ISEEE) at the University of Calgary (2008-12), and the Executive Director of BIOCAP Canada, a research foundation focused on biological solutions to climate change (1998-2008).