Panelists from Google, Microsoft and U.S. Dept. of Energy, among others, discuss how investing in renewables brings value to public pension fund portfolios.
At a summit hosted by Oregon State Treasurer Ted Wheeler, Pegasus Capital Advisors and R20-Regions of Climate Action, thought leaders in technology, public policy and finance converged on Portland State University last week to discuss the value, opportunities and obstacles of investing in renewable energy.
“I brought together these remarkable individuals to explore profitable and responsible investment options in renewables,” said Ted Wheeler, Oregon State Treasurer. “I left more optimistic than ever that there are opportunities to invest in renewables that meet the high standards we have for all of our investments.”
At the summit, titled “Public Pension Fund Investments & Investing in Renewables: Opportunities and Challenges,” Treasurer Wheeler made clear that there is more work to be done to better define the asset class of these investments and to set clear guidelines around acceptable risk and expected returns. He expects that work to begin immediately.
The Oregon State Treasury protects public assets and saves Oregonians money through its investment, banking, and debt management functions. State investment policies are overseen by the Oregon Investment Council. The State Treasury also promotes public outreach and education to help Oregonians learn strategies to save money, invest for college and make smart financial choices.
