Jack D. Hidary

Biographical Information
"Jack D. Hidary built his career as an entrepreneur and is focused on clean energy technology and policy. In April 2009, the Hidary Group bought the majority interest from JP Morgan in Primary Insight – a leading expert network used by top-tier investment funds. Primary Insight covers sectors ranging from energy and renewables to technology, media, telecom and emerging markets.

"Hidary recently launched and serves as Chairman of Global Solar Center, a marketplace which connects solar installers and customers. Prior to GSC, Hidary co-founded Vista Research in 2001, an independent network of 50,000+ experts serving institutional investors.

"Committed to community and philanthropic causes, Hidary has received several industry and community awards as well as being recognized as a Global Leader of Tomorrow at the WEF, Davos. Hidary is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and of the Clinton Global Initiative. Hidary has been particularly involved in issues of energy and transportation. He is chairman and co-founder of the Freedom Prize Foundation, which provides monetary prizes to cities, schools and other entities that can most reduce their petroleum use. The Freedom Prizes were mandated by Congress in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (Title X: 1008). Hidary is the founder and publisher of the OpinionSource Energy Newsletter which provides summaries of major op-eds and editorials around the world on topics in the energy sector.

"Mr. Hidary helped coordinate and organize the initial development of the Cash for Clunkers bill. This aim of this bill is to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil, decrease greenhouse gas emissions and stimulate the economy by promoting auto sales. In New York City, Hidary was a leading proponent of switching over the taxi fleet to high mileage hybrids. Hidary serves as Chairman of SmartTransportation.org, a non-profit dedicated to promoting clean energy and transportation policy in the US. Hidary serves on the advisory board of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

"Hidary studied philosophy and neuroscience at Columbia University and was then awarded a Stanley Fellowship in Clinical Neuroscience at the National Institutes of Health."

Affiliations

 * Executive Board, Carbon War Room
 * Director, Trickle Up
 * Trustees Advisory Council, One Voice