Press Release · Powering America Podcast
The Pacific Research Institute’s Wayne Winegarden Explores Energy Policy and Coal's Importance
Published · Featuring Wayne Winegarden of Pacific Research Institute
Wayne Winegarden of the Pacific Research Institute discusses the complexities of energy policy, the role of coal, and the importance of affordable energy in the
Wayne Winegarden, a Senior Fellow at the Pacific Research Institute, discusses critical issues in energy policy on the Powering America Podcast. The episode covers the importance of coal, grid reliability, and the role of natural gas in maintaining an affordable energy system.
WASHINGTON — May 25, 2026 — Wayne Winegarden, Senior Fellow at the Pacific Research Institute, joined the Powering America Podcast to discuss energy policy, focusing on coal's significance, grid reliability, and the impact of natural gas prices. The conversation highlights the complexities of energy costs and the need for a balanced approach to energy resources.
Winegarden emphasized that "without affordable energy, you don't have prosperity." He pointed out that rising energy costs are interconnected with overall economic stability, stating, "When those costs go up, the cost for everything else goes up too." He noted that while coal has often been criticized for its emissions, it remains a vital component of the energy mix, particularly during periods of high demand.
The discussion also addressed the challenges posed by regulatory policies that may hinder investment in coal and other traditional energy sources. Winegarden remarked, "Coal still plays a very prominent role in keeping the world running today," underscoring the necessity of maintaining a diverse energy portfolio for grid reliability. He advocated for a realistic approach to energy transition, stating, "We have to do it realistically," as the energy landscape evolves.
The Pacific Research Institute is a nonprofit think tank dedicated to advancing free-market policy solutions in California and beyond. Its research focuses on key issues including healthcare, education, and energy policy.
About the Powering America Podcast
The Powering America Podcast explores the intersection of energy, infrastructure, policy, and economic growth. It features expert insights and discussions on current trends and challenges in the energy sector.
About Pacific Research Institute
The mission of the Pacific Research Institute (PRI) is to champion freedom, opportunity, and personal responsibility for all individuals by advancing free-market policy solutions. Since its founding in 1979, PRI has remained steadfast to the vision of a free and civil society where individuals can achieve their full potential. Put simply, public policy is too important to be left just to the experts. Individuals are the real decision makers when it comes to their schools, health care, and environment. PRI reinforces this ideal by providing you with the information, inspiration, and opportunity to make decisions about the daily issues that matter most to you. The Institute’s activities include publications, events, media commentary, legislative testimony, and community outreach.
About the Guest
Wayne Winegarden — Senior Fellow, Business and Economics, Pacific Research Institute
Wayne Winegarden is a senior fellow in business and economics at the Pacific Research Institute and director of the organization’s Center for Medical Economics and Innovation. An economist and policy analyst, Winegarden focuses on healthcare, energy, taxation, and macroeconomic policy issues and has written for outlets including Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Investor’s Business Daily. He previously worked as an economist in Hong Kong and Washington, D.C., and earned his Ph.D. in economics from George Mason University.
About the Powering America Podcast
The Powering America Podcast hosts conversations on energy, infrastructure, policy and economic growth — interviewing the operators, regulators, and innovators powering America's grid, gas, nuclear, and industrial future. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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