About PECC

Where Energy Law Meets Climate Action

For more than four decades, the Pace Energy and Climate Center has been at the forefront of advancing clean energy solutions and environmental policy. Operating at the intersection of energy, climate, and the law, we engage government leaders and key stakeholders with rigorous legal and policy analysis, always grounded in real-world application.

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Founded in 1987 by Dean Emeritus Richard L. Ottinger following his distinguished service in the U.S. Congress, the Center began as the Pace Energy Project. From its inception, Dean Ottinger recognized the profound environmental implications of how we produce and consume energy. Under his leadership, the Center pioneered research on the social and environmental costs of energy production, championing energy efficiency and renewables long before they became mainstream.

Today, the Pace Energy and Climate Center (PECC) is more than a think tank—we are a catalyst for change. Our team of lawyers, economists, scientists, and energy analysts works across sectors to shape law and policy that drives the clean energy transition forward. Our focus spans a broad range of critical issues, including:

• Improving energy efficiency
• Advancing renewable energy and distributed generation
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
• Enhancing transportation systems and fuel policies
• Building community resilience to climate impacts

We work at all levels—local, state, regional, national, and international—to create scalable, inclusive, and lasting solutions. Through stakeholder engagement, collaborative research, and evidence-based advocacy, we help build stronger policies and stronger communities.

PECC is also a training ground for the next generation of energy leaders. Students from the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University are deeply integrated into our work, contributing directly to domestic and global projects through internships and scholarship. Many of our alumni have gone on to impactful careers at institutions such as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, New York Power Authority, Energy Foundation, and the New York Independent System Operator.

Our Partners

At the Pace Energy and Climate Center, collaboration is at the heart of our mission. We work alongside a diverse network of partners—including state agencies, regional energy organizations, academic institutions, utilities, community, nonprofit, and advocacy groups—to advance equitable, science-based solutions to the most pressing energy and climate challenges.

• US Department of Energy
• NYSERDA
• The NY Community Trust
• Movement Strategies
• Sustainable Westchester
• New York Climate Exchange
• Tribal Energy Solutions
• COPx
• Endurant Energy
• Westchester Community Foundation