The Politics That Shape Utility Policy
As rising utility bills become a defining affordability issue, the decisions that shape our energy system have never been more consequential. From utility rate cases and grid investments to energy efficiency programs and distributed generation, the policies governing our electric system affect not only household costs, but also the pace of the clean energy transition.
This panel will explore how advocates, policymakers, consumer organizations, regulators, and other stakeholders are shaping the future of utility policy. Panelists will discuss the strategies that have successfully influenced utility regulation, advanced consumer protections, expanded access to affordable clean energy, and accelerated grid decarbonization. What advocacy approaches are proving most effective? Which policy reforms are politically feasible? And how can coalitions build the public and political support needed to modernize the electric system?
Panelists:
Sara Enright, Senior Director of Safety and Sustainability at Consumer Reports
Sara Enright leads Consumer Reports’ enterprise-wide energy affordability initiative, bringing together research, consumer engagement, investigative journalism, and policy advocacy to address rising energy costs and advance a more affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy system for consumers. Previously, Sara mobilized companies to adopt inclusive, climate-resilient policies and partnerships. As Director of Collaboration at BSR (Business for Social Responsibility), she advised multinational companies on their environmental and social impact strategies and led a portfolio of private-sector collaborations supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. She has also worked with the UN Development Programme’s Business Call to Action initiative, promoting inclusive business models for poverty reduction; supported social enterprises in defining their impact and fundraising strategies; and consulted on strategy, corporate social responsibility, and philanthropy at McKinsey & Company. Sara holds an MBA from IE Business School in Spain and a BA in Arts and Sciences and Latin American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin.
Laurie Wheelock, Executive Director and Counsel of Public Utility Law Project of New York (PULP)
Laurie Wheelock, Esq. is the Executive Director and General Counsel of the Public Utility Law Project. She began her career working for the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) where she fought for the rights of consumers across the state. Ms. Wheelock went on to work for three different members of the New York State Assembly in both Albany and New York City focusing on a wide variety of issue areas including legislation to promote affordable housing, public access to insurance, nonprofit reform, and environmental protection. Ms. Wheelock received her Bachelors Degree in Political Science from Binghamton University and received her Juris Doctorate and Masters in Environmental Law and Policy from Vermont Law School.
Peter Hubbard, Georgia Public Service Commissioner
Peter Hubbard is a seasoned energy expert with 16 years of energy industry experience, including developing solar and battery storage projects, preparing electric utility Integrated Resource Plans, running electricity and gas models, performing organized market analysis in North America, projecting fuel prices, analyzing project risk, conducting M&A due diligence, navigating electric grid interconnection, and more. He brings this unique energy background to the role of Public Service Commissioner in his first term.