“Every action we take shapes a future where sustainability, equity, and hope thrive — let’s build that world together.”

Preet Kang

2025 Top 30 Under 30

About

AGE: 30

PRONOUNS: She/Her

HOMETOWN: Edmonton, AB

CURRENT RESIDENCE: Edmonton, AB

ORGANIZATIONS:

Solar Alberta
Alberta Environmental Network
CharTerraCA
Non-Profit Board Internship Program, University of Alberta Career Centre
Iron & Earth
Alberta Talks
Solar Power Investment Cooperative of Edmonton

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

I am most passionate about:

What specific issue(s) are you working to address, and what motivates you to do so?

I am deeply committed to addressing climate action, social equity, and community-driven efforts, particularly in Alberta, where the challenges of transitioning from a fossil-fuel based economy are deeply intertwined with the need for equity and sustainability. My work focuses on fostering inclusive dialogues, building diverse coalitions, and advancing tangible solutions that prioritize environmental and social well-being.

As the Energy Transition Campaigner at the Alberta Environmental Network, I lead initiatives to advance an equitable energy transition, often referred to as a “Just Transition.” This includes convening the Energy Transition Working Group, a collaborative platform that brings together stakeholders across sectors – youth, renewable energy advocates, unions, fossil fuel workers, Indigenous leaders, health and education sectors, faith-based groups, local businesses, and environmental organizations. This group focuses on creating actionable strategies to address barriers and opportunities in transitioning Alberta’s economy to one that is low-carbon and resilient, while centering on equity and justice. I also organize and facilitate the Calgary Roundtable, where members drive municipal solutions for climate challenges and build political engagement literacy to be empowered to influence government decisions effectively. My work with the Alberta Health Professionals for the Environment ensures the critical intersections of climate and planetary, human, and animal health are integrated into energy transition conversations, emphasizing a holistic approach to sustainability.

As Board President of Solar Alberta, I provide strategic leadership to drive the organization’s mission of accelerating Alberta’s transition to a just and sustainable energy future. With the support of Solar Alberta’s Board and Staff, I have strengthened the organization’s position as a leader in the “solar sphere” by incorporating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) practices into our operations and governance. Solar Alberta has solidified its role as a community and industry hub for renewable energy education and advocacy, and has gained influence with decision makers at many levels of government. Here, I help raise awareness of solar policy gaps and needs, mobilize grassroots climate action, and amplify individual, community, and industry leader voices. Under my guidance, the organization has expanded its reach to diverse stakeholders, from international solar businesses to local communities and advocates, while fostering vital cross-sector partnerships.

Mentorship is also fundamental to my professional beliefs and values. Through the University of Alberta’s Non-Profit Board Internship Program, I mentor emerging leaders by providing hands-on experience in governance, leadership, and decision-making. By supporting these students in developing board operations skills and encouraging strategic thinking, I aim to inspire a new generation of leaders committed to positively contributing to the world.

Additionally, as an Advisory Board Member at CharTerra, I provide insights on biochar and biocarbon technologies, connecting innovative solutions with market trends to support Alberta’s shift toward a circular economy. My technical background in chemical engineering complements my work, allowing me to bridge specialized expertise with actionable policy and community-driven solutions.

What motivates me is the belief that an intentional, inclusive approach is essential to address the challenges of climate change and social inequities. I am driven by continuous learning and a deep hope that the work we do today will pave the way for a resilient, equitable, and sustainable future. Together, we can foster a world where clean energy, justice, and collaboration are at the heart of every solution.

What is your foundation?

My foundation is deeply rooted in the values of compassion, resilience, and curiosity, shaped by the unwavering support of my partner, family, friends, mentors, and community. My family instilled in me the importance of caring for others and the world we share, fostering a lifelong curiosity about how we can live more sustainably. My partner provides steadfast encouragement, grounding me through challenges and celebrating every step forward, while my friends remind me of the joy and strength found in shared purpose.

Community has always been a guiding force in my journey. Growing up, I witnessed how collective action could create lasting change, inspiring me to engage deeply with diverse groups. Mentors along the way have been instrumental in shaping my perspective, challenging me to think critically, and motivating me to lead with empathy and conviction.

My academic journey in chemical engineering sparked a realization about the profound impact energy production has on our planet. Leading a project on biochar’s carbon-sequestration potential during my studies allowed me to envision clean energy as a vital solution to combat climate change. This academic foundation, combined with real-world experiences, cemented my commitment to addressing the intersecting challenges of rising energy demand, sustainability, and equity.

Key roles, like Relations Director with Engineers Without Borders and Youth Hub Member with the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation, deepened my understanding of the power youth have, and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices. These experiences, coupled with the guidance of mentors and the support of my loved ones, have fueled my drive to lead transformative work in clean energy and climate advocacy.

Together, the people and communities that surround me inspire me to merge technical expertise with human and nature centered approaches, forging a path toward a just and sustainable energy future.

What is your vision for the future?

My vision for the future is a world where thriving communities and balanced ecosystems co-exist, powered by clean, affordable energy that is accessible to all. I see Alberta transitioning to a low-carbon economy that is both inclusive and sustainable, serving as a model for the rest of the world.

I aspire to create pathways that empower communities, advance climate education, and contribute to the achievement of global sustainability goals. In the future, I will ensure that frontline communities have a strong voice in climate policy discussions, fostering open dialogue, sharing resources, and amplifying the perspectives of those most impacted. This will be the foundation for inclusive and equitable climate action, ensuring that the future is for everyone.

As I continue my work with Solar Alberta and other platforms, I will champion the expansion of renewable energy education and policies that uphold both environmental and social equity. By increasing representation for youth, women, and gender-diverse individuals in the renewable energy sector, I aim to create an energy landscape that reflects our society’s diversity. Initiatives like grants for equity-deserving individuals and advocacy for equity-driven policies at the municipal level will become the norm in the energy transition.

Looking forward, I will dedicate myself to forging stronger collaborations, building innovative solutions, and ensuring these solutions are particularly aligned with the needs of communities. Success, for me, will be seen in empowered communities, measurable reductions in emissions, and a renewable energy sector that thrives on diversity and inclusivity.

Ultimately, I hope to drive transformative action that inspires others to join in shaping a more sustainable and equitable world. Through this journey, I look forward to learning from diverse perspectives, growing as a leader, and strengthening the collective efforts needed to create a brighter, more resilient future for all.

Preet Kang with the Solar Alberta team at the Solar & Friends Networking & Trade Show in Edmonton, May 2023. As a strategic leader at Solar Alberta, Preet fosters cross-sector partnerships, promotes ESG and EDI practices within the solar industry and community, and advances the organization’s mission to accelerate Alberta’s transition to a just and sustainable energy future while supporting Affordable and Clean Energy, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

Preet Kang at the ‘Stand Up for Renewables’ town hall in Calgary, August 2023; organized and facilitated by the Alberta Environmental Network, Preet and her team brought together nearly 150 diverse individuals including concerned citizens and volunteers in response to the provincial government’s decision to halt approval for new renewable electricity generation projects. In her role as Energy Transition Campaigner, Preet and the Alberta Talks’ team mobilized grassroots action by engaging community members directly with their elected government through a letter-writing campaign, resulting in more than 100 letters being mailed to Members of Legislative Assembly and other policymakers – letters which demanded that the pause be lifted, and advocated for the acceleration of renewable energy development in Alberta.

Preet Kang participating in the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation’s “Together | Ensemble 2018” Conference at the University of Alberta, a national symposium focused on collaboration and innovation to move forward efforts related to Sustainable Development Goals. Preet explored insightful approaches to the 2030 Agenda, while evaluating Canada’s progress on achieving SDGs and reflecting on her own role in advancing these goals.

Preet Kang advocating for SDG #5 (Gender Equality) and SDG #17 (Partnerships for the Goals) at Canada’s Parliament Hill during Engineers Without Borders Action Day in May 2018. Preet met with Members of Parliament to push for increased federal funding for women-led SMEs in Africa providing essential services, innovative development financing, and expanded Official Development Assistance.