Irina Markina

Irina Markina

United States
5K followers 500 connections

About

Mission driven leader with 15 years of experience in energy, climate action…

Activity

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Experience

  • Ara Partners Graphic
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    Washington, District of Columbia, United States

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    United States

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    Washington, District of Columbia, United States

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    Washington D.C. Metro Area

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    Washington D.C. Metro Area

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    Brussels Area, Belgium

Education

  • The Wharton School Graphic
  • Lund University is #1 highest ranked public research university in Sweden in the QS Ranking. Sweden is the top 4th county in the world in quality of higher education.

  • University of Gothenburg is a leading public research university in Sweden that specializes in social sciences, sustainable development, engineering, medicine and business. Participated in a study abroad program to study politics and international business, and gained industry experience through research partners.

  • Vilnius University is #1 highest ranked public research university in Lithuania, among 1,5% top universities in the world in the QS World University Ranking.

Licenses & Certifications

Volunteer Experience

  • The George Washington University Graphic

    Guest Lecturer and Graduate Student Mentor

    The George Washington University

    - Present 8 years

    Education

    Guest Lecturer and Graduate Student Mentor at the Elliott School of International Affairs

  • Ocean Conservancy Graphic

    Volunteer

    Ocean Conservancy

    - 2 years 4 months

    Environment

    The International Coastal Cleanup has brought together 13 million people from 150 countries to be a part of the world’s largest volunteer effort to protect the ocean. I started a partnership with the Ocean Conservancy for the International Coastal Cleanup in Washington D.C. and launched EU Beach Cleanup in the capital region, engaging 28 European countries.

Publications

  • Evaluating House Select Committee Climate Crisis Action Plan

    Atlantic Council, the New Atlanticist

    On June 30th, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis (HSCCC) released its long-awaited report, Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy, Resilient, and Just America. Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, an economic downturn, and a renewed movement for racial justice, the report sets out a vision to reach net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 with recommendations on issues from infrastructure to incentivizing…

    On June 30th, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis (HSCCC) released its long-awaited report, Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy, Resilient, and Just America. Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, an economic downturn, and a renewed movement for racial justice, the report sets out a vision to reach net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 with recommendations on issues from infrastructure to incentivizing new technologies and creating jobs in the clean energy sector. The report also addresses pollution and environmental justice, the nexus between climate and public health, and conservation. I have joined a team of experts to share my most important takeaways.

    See publication
  • The Implications of the Coronavirus Crisis on the Global Energy Sector and the Environment

    Atlantic Council, the New Atlanticist

    "Major economies will have to tighten their belts to manage the economic fallout of COVID-19. There may be fewer funds available to invest in decarbonization as a consequence of a potential economic recession, and far less political will. There is a risk that societies would lock in choices that will affect the pace of the energy transition for years to come.
    However, the economic stimulus responses present an opportunity for transformation across hard-to-decarbonize economic sectors…

    "Major economies will have to tighten their belts to manage the economic fallout of COVID-19. There may be fewer funds available to invest in decarbonization as a consequence of a potential economic recession, and far less political will. There is a risk that societies would lock in choices that will affect the pace of the energy transition for years to come.
    However, the economic stimulus responses present an opportunity for transformation across hard-to-decarbonize economic sectors, ensuring that the next growth strategy is resilient to climate-related risks. In the prolonged low interest rate environment created by central banks, there is a golden opportunity for long-term infrastructure financing that could direct low-cost investments to clean power systems, or that could help industrial sectors to decarbonize as industries work to optimize supply chains disrupted by COVID-19."

    See publication
  • Research Report: European Energy Diversification - How Alternative Sources, Routes and Clean Technologies Can Bolster Energy Security and Decarbonization (print publication)

    Atlantic Council, Global Energy Center

    This comprehensive report was launched at the Atlantic Council Global Energy Forum in Abu Dhabi in January, 2020 in the margins of the International Renewable Energy Agency General Assembly and Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The Global Energy Forum has emerged as the go-to conference on the geopolitics of the global energy transformation. The report provides an in-depth analysis on the role of natural gas in the low-carbon future, and it examines how renewable energy and advanced energy…

    This comprehensive report was launched at the Atlantic Council Global Energy Forum in Abu Dhabi in January, 2020 in the margins of the International Renewable Energy Agency General Assembly and Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The Global Energy Forum has emerged as the go-to conference on the geopolitics of the global energy transformation. The report provides an in-depth analysis on the role of natural gas in the low-carbon future, and it examines how renewable energy and advanced energy technologies such as the carbon capture, utilization and storage, energy efficiency, renewable hydrogen, and smart grids contribute to decarbonization and energy security agenda in Europe. It outlines policy recommendations for the EU-US cooperation on methane emissions in the natural gas sector, and on deployment of renewable energy and advanced energy technologies. The report follows Atlantic Council policy round-table held in Berlin, Germany in October, 2019.

    See publication
  • Research Report: European Energy Security and Transatlantic Cooperation (print publication)

    Atlantic Council, Global Energy Center

    The report follows the Atlantic Council policy round-table that convened key energy and climate action policy-makers, and energy industry executives for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of transatlantic energy relations. The policy event was held in Brussels, Belgium in March, 2019. The report provides an in-depth assessment of energy security landscape in the European Union, focusing on the natural gas markets.

    See publication

Courses

  • Electricity Market Design

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  • Building Energy Efficiency: Technology, Policy and Finance

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  • Clean Energy Regulatory Framework

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  • Corporate Sustainability Strategy

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  • Global Energy Markets

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  • Global Political Economy

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  • Political Economy of the Big Tech

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  • Speechwriting

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  • Strategic Communication and Public Speaking

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  • Strategy and Political Analysis

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  • Transforming the Grid

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Projects

  • Power Sector Transformation and Digitalization in the Energy Sector

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    The Electric power sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by a changing fuel mix, higher penetration of renewable energy resources, changing consumer preferences and interface with the electric power system, and evolving business models. In addition, the increased digitalization of the energy sector, and specifically the electric power sector, raises issues about access to data, cybersecurity, and grid resilience.

    I initiated, conceptualized, and led a half-day policy…

    The Electric power sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by a changing fuel mix, higher penetration of renewable energy resources, changing consumer preferences and interface with the electric power system, and evolving business models. In addition, the increased digitalization of the energy sector, and specifically the electric power sector, raises issues about access to data, cybersecurity, and grid resilience.

    I initiated, conceptualized, and led a half-day policy workshop composed of two closed expert round-tables that focused on power sector transformation, modernization of electricity market designs, and digitalization in the energy sector. The workshop was facilitated by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Partnering with the CSIS Energy and Climate Program team, I delivered an in-depth research study with policy recommendations to the EU and US governments.

    See project
  • Annual Climate Action Week

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    Climate change is one of the major challenges of the 21st century, presenting risks to global prosperity. Annually, twice per year European Union embassies around the world hold a Climate Diplomacy Week by highlighting climate action, sustainability, and collaboration on climate change.

    See project
  • "The Ice Box Challenge" - Energy Efficiency in the Building Sector, Zero-carbon Buildings, and Passive Construction

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    I Initiated and executed a public science experiment titled "The Ice Box Challenge" showcasing the value of energy efficiency in the building sector, and the benefits of the passive construction (Passive House) standard compared to an international building code. Delivered the public science experiment, a launch event, and a one-month public engagement campaign. Demonstrated that on average, passive construction design using exterior insulation, triple-glazed windows and heat recovery…

    I Initiated and executed a public science experiment titled "The Ice Box Challenge" showcasing the value of energy efficiency in the building sector, and the benefits of the passive construction (Passive House) standard compared to an international building code. Delivered the public science experiment, a launch event, and a one-month public engagement campaign. Demonstrated that on average, passive construction design using exterior insulation, triple-glazed windows and heat recovery ventilation systems consumes up to 90% less energy compared to the minimum requirements of the international building code. Achieved record public and media engagement.

    As PMP, managed an international cross-functional project team comprised of EU, Belgian, and US experts in creating a detailed WBS, determining a budget, developing a schedule, planning communications management, and stakeholder engagement. Managed the project team of policy and press experts in designing and executing the launch event and public engagement campaign. Performed quality control of the public engagement and policy and media impact analysis. Briefed C-suite on the project milestones. Managed stakeholders, responded to media inquiries and took part in media interviews.

    See project
  • Addressing Climate Change Through Technology Innovation

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    The transition to a low-carbon economy after the Paris Agreement has been embraced by an unprecedented number of countries and thousands of sub-national groups. I partnered with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace on a policy event focused on technology innovation and economically sound decarbonization efforts in the energy, finance, and transportation sectors. The policy event featured World Bank Group CEO Georgieva and leading industry executives in energy, finance, and…

    The transition to a low-carbon economy after the Paris Agreement has been embraced by an unprecedented number of countries and thousands of sub-national groups. I partnered with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace on a policy event focused on technology innovation and economically sound decarbonization efforts in the energy, finance, and transportation sectors. The policy event featured World Bank Group CEO Georgieva and leading industry executives in energy, finance, and transportation from DBL Partners, Vestas Wind Systems, Daimler-Benz, Generate Capital, and leadership of the WRI.

    See project
  • Flagship Conference on the Signing of the Paris Climate Agreement

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    I conceptualized and executed a flagship policy conference to mark the signing of the Paris Climate Agreement, "Going Green - Delivering on Paris." The full day policy event promoted the green economy as a formidable transatlantic opportunity for economic growth, and innovation. The conference aimed at mobilizing the private sector, and engaging European and US decision-makers. As PM, I conceptualized an opening event, four policy panels of the full day conference, and confirmed 27 high level…

    I conceptualized and executed a flagship policy conference to mark the signing of the Paris Climate Agreement, "Going Green - Delivering on Paris." The full day policy event promoted the green economy as a formidable transatlantic opportunity for economic growth, and innovation. The conference aimed at mobilizing the private sector, and engaging European and US decision-makers. As PM, I conceptualized an opening event, four policy panels of the full day conference, and confirmed 27 high level speakers. US Energy Secretary Moniz, US Trade Representative Froman, US Climate Envoy Pershing, EU HRVP Mogherini, EU’s energy and climate leadership, and industry executives from Google, Bloomberg Associates, Akuo Energy, ASE, ACORE, and BCSE spoke at the event. The event was considered a success, attracting a record number of attendees and media coverage maximizing policy outreach.

    See project

Honors & Awards

  • Securing Americas Future Energy Fellowship Award

    Securing Americas Future Energy (SAFE)

    The Securing Americas Future Energy Fellowship Program provides the next generation of energy professionals with access to high-level programming designed to connect experts who are passionate about advancing a national conversation on the future of American energy and transportation policy.

    The SAFE focuses on accelerating innovation in the transportation sector and the use of electric and autonomous vehicles, and on reducing the United States’ demand for fossil fuels through improved…

    The Securing Americas Future Energy Fellowship Program provides the next generation of energy professionals with access to high-level programming designed to connect experts who are passionate about advancing a national conversation on the future of American energy and transportation policy.

    The SAFE focuses on accelerating innovation in the transportation sector and the use of electric and autonomous vehicles, and on reducing the United States’ demand for fossil fuels through improved vehicle fuel efficiency.



  • Commendation from European Union Energy and Climate Action Commissioner Miguel Arias Cañete

    European Commission

    Presented in recognition of leadership, sustained outstanding performance in advancing the EU-US partnership and managing European Union Energy and Climate Action Commissioner Miguel Arias Cañete's visit to Washington DC.

  • Meritorious Full Erasmus Scholarship Award

    European Union

    The European Community Action Program for Mobility of University Students provides scholarships for accomplished students to study and gain professional experience in a European Union country.

Languages

  • French

    Professional working proficiency

  • Russian

    Full professional proficiency

  • Polish

    Full professional proficiency

  • Lithuanian

    Native or bilingual proficiency

  • English

    Native or bilingual proficiency

Organizations

  • Atlantic Council

    Non-resident Senior Fellow, Global Energy Center

    - Present

    The Atlantic Council is a nonpartisan think tank that galvanizes US leadership and engagement in the world, in partnership with allies and partners, to shape solutions to global challenges. Since its inception in 1961, the Council provides an essential forum for navigating the dramatic economic and political changes defining the twenty-first century by informing and galvanizing its uniquely influential network of global leaders. The Atlantic Council - through the papers it publishes, the ideas…

    The Atlantic Council is a nonpartisan think tank that galvanizes US leadership and engagement in the world, in partnership with allies and partners, to shape solutions to global challenges. Since its inception in 1961, the Council provides an essential forum for navigating the dramatic economic and political changes defining the twenty-first century by informing and galvanizing its uniquely influential network of global leaders. The Atlantic Council - through the papers it publishes, the ideas it generates, the future leaders it develops, and the communities it builds - shapes policy choices and strategies to create a more free, secure, and prosperous world. The Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center promotes energy security by working alongside government, industry, civil society, and public stakeholders to devise pragmatic solutions to the geopolitical, sustainability, and economic challenges of the changing global energy landscape.

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