FERC

Resources for the Future and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation bring together researchers and stakeholders to examine energy economics, policy, and technology, with an emphasis on connecting research and decision-making. In-person attendance is by invitation only. The program includes an opening discussion on how researchers can collaborate with decision-makers amid changes in the US energy research and policy landscapes. Topical breakout sessions use lightning talks, practitioner reflections, and moderated discussion to cover energy supply chains, energy workforce transitions, industrial decarbonization, and energy system resilience. Other sessions address consumer perspectives on electricity rate design, energy efficiency, vehicle purchases, and energy policy choices; clean-energy research and deployment involving nuclear energy, geothermal technologies, carbon capture, and carbon dioxide removal; and the United States’ position in global clean-energy innovation. Facilitated networking focuses on data access, combining quantitative and qualitative research, reaching new audiences, and building communities of practice. The program also includes participant-nominated breakfast salons and a funders’ panel on emerging energy-system research needs and opportunities for impact.

Geothermal experts, engineers, students, and business leaders will meet with lawmakers and congressional staff on House-focused and Senate-focused appointment days. The program centers on legislative and policy developments affecting geothermal, industry talking points, and follow-up on meetings. Geothermal Rising Policy Council-approved talking points will cover technology-agnostic benefits of geothermal heating, cooling, and power generation; current legislative bills that support industry growth; and appropriation requests. The invitation-only federal agency day is for Policy Council members and involves agency partners including BLM, DOE, and FERC, with the stated aims of strengthening relationships, aligning priorities, and improving coordination across federal programs. Preparation includes a required virtual overview and a small-group planning session covering congressional offices, lawmakers’ priorities, and committee assignments.