I think the “interests” that might “conflict” are “business” vs. “public policy.” For example, a criticism an opponent of Al Gore might make is something like,

I think the “interests” that might “conflict” are “business” vs. “public policy.” For example, a criticism an opponent of Al Gore might make is something like, “Would you still be an advocate for climate policy X if you didn’t stand to gain $Y due to its implementation?” Of course, I’m not saying the criticism necessarily holds up to careful scrutiny. And, from what I can tell, neither does the author of this article.