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 Insights

• State-level leadership is essential to drive climate action and fill gaps left by federal deregulation
• Climate XChange monitors policy trends and opportunities across all 50 states
• States can lead on methane regulation and building decarbonization to meet emissions goals
• Equity must remain central to all climate and energy policy decisions
• Data center growth presents both a challenge and an opportunity for smart energy planning
• Strong collaboration and advocacy are key to advancing impactful local climate solutions

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to State-Level Climate Action
02:02 The Role of Climate Exchange in Policy
07:13 Federal Deregulation and Its Impacts
10:19 Addressing Methane Emissions
13:02 Concrete Actions for Decarbonization
15:41 State-Level Progress and Setbacks
19:07 Equity in Climate Policy
21:06 Navigating Data Center Growth
24:42 Innovations in Energy Policy
28:22 Call to Action for Policymakers
32:56 Sustaining Momentum in Climate Advocacy

About Climate XChange 

State Climate Policy Dashboard: https://www.climatepolicydashboard.org/

State Climate Policy Network: https://climate-xchange.org/network/

Website: http://climate-xchange.org

Article: “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 Podcast

Just 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 Parrs

Carolyn 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/mindovermarkets

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/

About Just Power Podcast

Just 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.

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