Diren Kocakusak, Ph.D., is an affiliated researcher of the Rutgers Center for Green Building. He received his Ph.D. in Planning Public Policy in 2021 from the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy. His research focused on the adoption of photovoltaic solar systems in residential buildings and the integration of progressive renewable energy policies to current regulations in the United States. His doctoral research has been supported by the Fulbright Program. Upon graduation, he has worked as a Consultant at the United Nations, conducting research and publishing on environmental policy-making, climate change planning, renewable energy transition, and urban sustainability.