The Business of Clean Energy in the Pacific Northwest: From the Front Lines of the Energy Transition

The transition to lower-carbon energy is a complex, long-term process shaped by infrastructure, economics, and innovation. These realities were at the center of a recent panel discussion hosted by the Milgard School of Business as part of its Distinction of Excellence program.
On February 9th, 2026, the Milgard School of Business brought together three voices from the front lines of the energy transition: 

• Bett Lucas, Senior Vice President at TransMontaigne Partners
• Michael Catsi, President and CEO of the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County
• Brian Melvin, Engineering Manager at U.S. Oil Refining Company
• Moderated by Dean Altaf Merchant of the Milgard School of Business

They explored how environmental goals intersect with operational realities across the energy sector.

Understanding the Full Energy Picture

Panelists emphasized that energy sources cannot be evaluated by simple labels. For example, hydrogen can be produced through multiple methods—each with distinct production processes and lifecycle impacts. Transportation logistics and infrastructure requirements also influence a fuel’s overall footprint. The conversation highlighted the importance of examining energy systems holistically—from production and storage to distribution and end use.

Infrastructure and Investment

Washington’s energy infrastructure has developed over decades and includes pipelines, rail, marine terminals, storage facilities, and transmission systems. Expanding or adapting that infrastructure requires long-term planning and coordination. Transmission development, in particular, can take many years, underscoring the need to align new energy generation with system capacity. As energy technologies evolve, infrastructure must evolve alongside them.
 

Cost and Competitiveness

The panel also addressed cost dynamics in emerging fuels. While renewable fuels such as sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel continue to advance, they currently carry higher production costs than conventional alternatives. Participants noted that innovation, scale, and supply chain development will play key roles in improving competitiveness over time.

Regional Strengths and Opportunities

Tacoma’s existing energy assets provide a strong foundation for future growth. U.S. Oil’s refinery, recognized for its operational efficiency, primarily serves regional markets—reducing transportation needs and supporting local supply chains. Looking ahead, opportunities in renewable fuels, hydrogen development, and advanced nuclear technologies could further position the Pacific Northwest as a leader in energy innovation.
 

The panel reinforced that the energy transition is not a single shift, but an ongoing evolution.

By bringing together industry expertise, business leadership, and academic dialogue, the Milgard School of Business continues to foster thoughtful conversations in the region.