Economist at Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Affiliation and years of experience in energy and/or environment:

I began with the NCAC in the fall of 2012, shortly after starting an internship with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. At the beginning of 2013, FERC offered me a full-time economist position and I've enjoyed working there ever since, having the good fortune of working on many facets of the electricity and gas markets.

Any particular achievement/interest in energy/environment you would like to mention?

I am particularly interested in the many separations, overlaps, or contradictions of current federal and state energy policies. Whether it's worker safety, freshwater protections, tax incentives/burdens, or the now-open oil exports, how involved the federal government can and/or should be involved is a fascinating and ever-moving target.

In your opinion, what are important economic/policy issues facing the energy industry nowadays?

There are so many important issues but in light of this warm winter, I have to talk about natural gas supply and prices. The relatively-recent, new technologies of drilling in the US are changing everything, from bottom lines to the geopolitical landscape and inflation rates. As a regulator I'm excited to see energy prices come down, and as an economist I'm happy that innovation, rather than policy, is driving this change.

How long have you been a member of NCAC? Any particular NCAC memory you would like to share with us?

In my short couple years attending NCAC events, the dinner with Daniel Yergin certainly stands out as one of the best events I've taken part in since I've moved to DC. Every time I pick up one of his books I learn something new, and having that personal connection to the author of those tomes makes picking them up enjoyable. I'm no longer as scared of them as I once was.