Brian Goldstein is the CEO & Executive Director of Energy Independence Now, a nonprofit NGO dedicated to advancing the hydrogen economy to drive energy innovation, sustainable economic development, and the deep decarbonization of key industries. With a background in finance, M&A, private equity, corporate strategy, and capital structuring, he has led initiatives across alternative fuels; renewable energy production, distribution, and storage; energy efficiency; and transportation technology – accelerating investment in clean energy, infrastructure expansion, and global market adoption.

Brian leads shipping and port decarbonization efforts, working with industry leaders, government agencies, and infrastructure developers to drive the adoption of hydrogen and fuel cells in maritime operations, headquartered at the Port of Los Angeles. His work focuses on reducing emissions from port equipment, heavy-duty transport, and shipping operations, advancing solutions that enhance air quality and strengthen supply chain resilience. He is involved in the development and launch of the first hydrogen-focused public utility, supporting next-generation energy infrastructure designed to integrate clean hydrogen at scale.

Under Brian’s leadership, Energy Independence Now (EIN) has been instrumental in shaping California’s hydrogen economy. The organization helped develop the California Hydrogen Highway Blueprint for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and played a key role in crafting policies and market incentives that accelerated hydrogen adoption. EIN helped launch the first-ever consumer market for fuel cells and hydrogen fuel, laying the foundation for expanded clean transportation and fueling infrastructure.

Brian has collaborated with the British, Canadian, and Japanese governments, among others, to strengthen global energy partnerships and expand international economic opportunities across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. He served as a technical and financial consultant to the U.S. Department of Energy, advised multiple Presidential transition teams on energy and transportation policy, and contributed as a judge for clean energy innovation competitions, including the Clean Tech Open and the DOE National Clean Energy Business Plan Competition.

A lifelong problem-solver and strategist, Brian developed an early passion for leadership and resilience as an Eagle Scout, carrying those values into his professional and personal life. An avid outdoorsman and former competitive athlete, he has pursued global expeditions and high-intensity pursuits, embracing the same drive and adaptability that define his career in finance and clean energy innovation.

Brian holds a B.S. in International Business from the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado and an MBA in Finance and International Business from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio Business School, where he earned a Merit Scholarship.