Host Institutions

Alaska

• Alaska Energy Authority | Anchorage, AK

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Powering the Last Frontier: Unveiling Alaska's Renewable Potential

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Alaska Energy Agency's plan to update and expand its hydroelectric geodatabase to provide accurate data on potential hydroelectric sites. The Fellow will research and support hydroelectric planning and analysis at potential sites, including updates to a geodatabase and review of aerial and satellite images, which will support future clean energy planning.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in modeling, quantitative analysis, research and writing, along with skills in developing and editing geospatial data using geospatial tools and an interest in distribution operations, renewable energy, and transmission infrastructure.

• Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium | Anchorage, AK

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Supporting Tribes in Alaska to Develop Renewable Energy and Operate as Independent Power Producers

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Technical Assistance Program at the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) through technical and economic analysis for developing clean energy projects in rural Alaska Native communities. Opportunities to travel to extremely remote Alaskan communities and engage with tribal leaders will be available.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with modeling, quantitative analysis, and tribal engagement, along with an interest in energy storage and renewable energy generation. In addition, experience using HOMER Pro micgrogrid software/ helioscope/other renewable modeling tools, engineering design skills, project development background perferred.

• Knik Tribe | Palmer, AK

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Affordable Energy and Grid Resilience for Knik Tribe

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will research distributed energy, energy storage and maintenance, and battery technology with the goal of helping the Tribe plan grid moderization and resilience while lowering costs for consumers. The fellow will work with the project coordinator to develop an implementation plan to prevent outages and enhance the resilience of the electrical grid, and track/report project objectives.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with regulatory processes, stakeholder engagement, Microsoft 365, and tribal engagement, along with an interest in building efficiency, energy storage, and grid modernization.

   

• Native Village of Atka | Atka, AK

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Hydrogen Fuel Project for the Native Village of Atka

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will research and assess the production of hydrogen fuel from an  existing hydroelectric generation facility. This project will cover the scalability of electrolyzers, fuel storage tanks, and hydrogen fuel systems. The project is aimed at lowering the cost of energy for the community and facilitating long-term economic development.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have an interest in hydrogen fuel programs, due diligence during project development, research, writing, and tribal engagement experience.

Arkansas

• Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment | North Little Rock, AR

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status; however, for the right candidate, the Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. If remote, the Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Expanding Weatherization Benefits and Technology in Arkansas

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Arkansas Energy Office's efforts to enhance the weatherization assistance program (WAP) by assisting in the development of the workforce training strategy. The Fellow will help identify and coordinate training for staff at the various community based organizations and their WAP contractors, collectively referred to as the “Network”, and travel to network agencies for monitoring purposes.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, program development, and stakeholder engagement, along with an interest in building efficiency, equity and environmental justice.

Colorado

• City of Longmont Power and Communications | Longmont, CO

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Delivery of Behind the Meter Use Cases and Meter to Substation Grid Analytics

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the City of Longmont to harness new advanced metering infrastructure data and load profiles to inform programming for commercial and residential customers. The Fellow will collaborate with subject matter experts, develop apps, EV controls, and telecom communications. The innovator will also be engaged with the deployment/implementation of a new Meter Data Management (MDM) system.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have at least some experience in cellular and advanced metering infrastructure communications, new program development, Microsoft 365, and stakeholder engagement, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, and renewable energy generation.

  
  

• Colorado Energy Office | Denver, CO

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Data Driven Transportation Electrification Programs, Policies & Outreach for the Colorado Energy Office

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Colorado Energy Office's (CEO) mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and consumer energy costs by advancing clean energy, energy efficiency, and zero emission vehicles to benefit all Coloradans. The Fellow will use existing datasets and resources, and identify new inputs as needed, to conduct analyses in areas such as program design, program impact, and progress toward goals.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with market assessment, modeling, and quantitative analysis, GIS, along with an interest in sustainable transportation, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Mountain View Electric Association | Falcon, CO

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Mountain View Electric Demand Response Program

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Mountain View Electric Association's development of a demand response program to lower peak demand and stabilize rates. The Fellow will assist with data analysis, program development, and financial modeling. The goal is to reduce power costs, maintain affordability, and support clean energy development.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with market assessment, modeling, and program development, data analysis, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in distribution operations and renewable energy generation.

  
  

• Tri-State Generation and Transmission | Westminster, CO

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Analyzing battery storage as a distributed energy resource as part of the Cooperative Energy Ecosystem located in rural disadvantaged communities.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Tri-State Generation and Transmission's Energy Innovations team that has a goal of developing a Battery Storage strategy. The Fellow will assist with research that will include data analysis, scenario evaluation, system and resource planning.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in modeling, program development, quantitative analysis, Excel, and/or other data tools, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage and renewable energy generation.

  
  

• Western Area Power Administration | Lakewood, CO

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Facilitating Transmission Solutions for New and Upgraded Grid Infrastructure Projects

  Project Description: The Innovation Fellow will support the Western Area Power Administration's Transmission Infrastructure Program team by assisting with programmatic and operational functions, and advancing transmission development projects. The Fellow will learn about transmission development, federal loan program operations, and the role of PMAs in modernizing the transmission grid.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have transmission industry, utility, or financing experience or expertise is desired but not required. A demonstrated ability to be a self-starter is desired. Quality presentation development a plus along with an interest in energy storage, grid modernization, and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

Delaware

• DNREC Division of Climate, Coastal, and Energy (DCCE) | Dover, DE

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Expanding Delaware’s Renewable Energy Landscape Through Distributed Energy Resource Deployment

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Delaware's Green Energy Program (GEP) on emerging renewable energy technologies. The Fellow will evaluate distributed renewable energy resources, analyze regulatory and economic landscapes, and provide recommendations for policy changes, program design, and potential implementation strategies.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will be a strong writer, effective communicator, and have knowledge of energy markets, distributed energy resource evaluation, and renewable energy program development/deployment.

  
  

Georgia

• Georgia Environmental Finance Authority | Atlanta, GA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Implementing grid enhancement and resiliency projects to disadvantaged and highly impacted communities in Georgia.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) team in implementing grid enhancement and resiliency programs. The Fellow will help GEFA define essential grid services, implement grid resilience formula grants, and develop grid resiliency metrics

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with program development, quantitative analysis, and stakeholder engagement, along with an interest in distribution operations, grid modernization, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

Idaho

• Coeur d'Alene Tribe | Plummer, ID

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Coeur d'Alene Tribe's Energy Strategy

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Environmental Program Manager to assess solar, wind, and battery storage potential, review third-party proposals, and assist in developing siting projects. This project will advance the Coeur d'Alene Tribe's energy sovereignty, and lay the ground work for project development.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in program development, quantitative analysis, research and writing, Microsoft Office Suite, and proficiency with GIS, along with an interest in grid modernization, renewable energy generation, and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

• Idaho Falls Power | Idaho Falls, ID

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Idaho Falls Electrifies: Advancing EV Infrastructure

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Idaho Falls Power to evaluate and implement an electric vehicle fast charging pilot, including feasibility of integrating Vehicle-to-Ground (V2G) technologies into the charging infrastructure. The Fellow will be involved with in-depth research, software development, electrical engineering, and training programs.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in program development, qualitative and quantitative analysis, software management of charging rates, analysis of optimal charger station siting, and understanding of peak demand needs, along with an interest in energy storage, grid modernization, and renewable energy generation.

  
  

• Nez Perce Tribe | Lapwai, ID

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Strengthen Grid Reliability to Improve Sustainable Energy Solutions for the Nez Perce Tribe

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will work closely with Nimiipuu Energy officials, Nez Perce leadership, the Tribal community, and renewable energy partners as they develop a detailed scope of work for the Tribe. The Fellow will support a team analyzing the existing electric grid on the Nez Perce Reservation and exploring options for increasing its capacity and subsequent deployment of renewable energy resources.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, program development, research and writing, along with an interest in energy storage, grid modernization, and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

Louisiana

• Louisiana Department of Energy and Natural Resources State Energy Office | Baton Rouge, LA

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Accelerating more abundant, affordable, and reliable clean energy for greater power resilience across Louisiana

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Louisiana State Energy Office's implementation of the Louisiana Hubs for Energy Resilient Operations (HERO) program. The Fellow will work exclusively on HERO under the direction and guidance of the co-architects, NextGen Energy Partners and The Accelerate Group on Phase 1 - Integrated Community Energy Planning (ICEP).

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, and grid modernization.

  
  

Maryland

• Maryland Public Service Commission |  Baltimore, MD

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Accelerating Statewide Adoption of Offshore Wind & Other Clean Energy

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Maryland's Public Service Commission's plans to study transmission needs for offshore wind, identify reliability challenges, and evaluate proposals that can address those challenges. The Fellow will provide additional support with power purchase agreements, commission recommendations and stakeholder engagement.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in quantitative analysis, regulatory processes, research and writing, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in grid modernization, renewable energy generation, and transmission infrastructure.

Michigan

• City of Columbia Office of Sustainability | Columbia, MI

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Research and develop policy structures to support a municipal utility’s renewable energy goals. Evaluate the role and value of local, utility-owned Renewable Energy resources.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the City of Columbia municipal electric utility's initiative of adding renewable resources to its portfolio in order to reach 100% renewable as early as feasible. The Fellow will conduct research and analysis of policy options and renewable energy ordinances across the industry, engage with stakeholders, and develop policy recommendations.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with market assessment, program development, research and writing, along with an interest in renewable energy generation, risk and threat assessments.

  
  

• Lansing Board of Water & Light | Lansing, MI

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Implementing a Carbon Based Incentive Program for Michigan's Largest Municipal Utility

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Lansing Board of Water & Light's plan to develop a program to identify decarbonization impacts from various customer programs and incentives, allowing the utility to quantitatively measure the economic and decarbonization impact of each measure. This research will help provide information and data on how customer programs impact utility decarbonization targets to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality by 2040.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience working with spreadsheets and other models, be able to access and understand customer energy usage data, and create quantitative measurement methods.

  
  

• Michigan Public Service Commission | Lansing, MI

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Informing an Energy Equity Framework with Procedural Justice in the Regulatory Environment

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Michigan Public Service Commission DEI efforts through procedural justice approaches for developing an equity framework. The Fellow will collaborate on gathering input from impacted customers and analyze results, examine documents, and make recommendations for procedural justice in the framework.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in equity and environmental justice.

  
  

Missouri

• Missouri Department of Natural Resources Division of Energy | Jefferson City, MO

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Identifying, Planning, and Deploying Opportunities to Advance Missouri Energy Independence and Security

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Missouri's State Energy Office in identifying and implementing opportunities for energy independence. The Fellow will monitor energy policy trends, provide research, collaborate with stakeholders, and develop energy-related educational materials.

  An ideal Fellow will have experience in project planning, regulatory processes, and stakeholder engagement, along with an interest in energy storage, renewable sources, and risk assessments.
  

Nevada

• Nevada Governor's Office of Energy | Carson City, NV

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Developing Grid Resilience Metrics

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Nevada Governor’s Office of Energy's development of comprehensive metrics to establish a baseline for Nevada's electric grid. The Fellow will conduct research on a project that includes metric design, data analysis, visualization, collaboration, documentation, training, and continuous improvement.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative and quantitative analysis, research and writing, Microsoft 365, and an understanding of accurate data/metric collection with an interest in grid modernization, transmission infrastructure, risk and threat assessments.

  
  

New York

• New York State Department of Public Service | Albany, NY

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Coordinated Grid Planning Process

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the New York State Department of Public Service's team tasked with managing the Coordinated Grid Planning Process (CGPP). The Fellow will coordinate with the team, provide resources and data management, track tasks, and detail decision points and final actions that have been taken as part of the process.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, modeling, and stakeholder engagement, Microsoft 365, as well as excellent writing and speaking skills, along with an interest in grid modernization, transmission infrastructure, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• New York State Energy Research and Development Authority | New York, NY

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Zero Emissions Grid by 2040 Technoeconomic Analysis

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support NYSERDA's engagement in the Zero by 40 process, including policy analysis, technoeconomic assessment of candidate zero carbon firm grid resources (e.g., hydrogen, nuclear, long duration energy storage, renewable natural gas, virtual power plants, and carbon capture and sequestration), and assessing reliability gaps. The Fellow will facilitate the process, conduct expert interviews, and participate in cost and performance modeling. This work will inform NYSERDA's programming and funding for high-potential resources.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have understanding of electric systems and experience with engineering, economic concepts related to project development, modeling, quantitative and qualitative analysis, along with an interest in energy storage, renewable energy generation, risk and threat assessments.

  
  

• Rockville Centre Electric Department | Rockville Centre, NY

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Rockville Centre Grid Resilience and Modernization

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre (RVC) Electric Department's project aimed at modernizing the Long Island Electric grid by 2030. The Fellow will be mentored and involved in the upgrade process, contributing to the community's safety and well-being.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, qualitative and quantitative analysis, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, and grid modernization.

  
  

North Dakota

• North Dakota Department of Commerce | Bismarck, ND

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  The Host Institution will work with the Fellow to allow for highest degree of flexibility of work location. It is preferred, but not mandatory, that the Fellow will relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period). If the Fellow is located remotely, the Fellow will need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Comprehensive Analysis of Long-Term Baseload Energy Solutions and Policy Requirements

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support to the North Dakota Department of Commerce's research project assessing infrastructure and policy needs for reliable baseload energy in the State. The Fellow will contribute to the project through stakeholder engagement with various stakeholders and will investigate all opportunities to improve on the baseload power options for the State. The research will help estimate reliability, economic impacts, and environmental impacts of the continued increase of intermittent energy production.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, regulatory processes, research and writing, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, and many types of energy generation. Strong skills in statistical analysis are crucial for analyzing empirical data related to energy production, consumption, pricing, and policy outcomes.

• North Dakota Public Service Commission | Bismarck, ND

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Electric Vehicle charging

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the North Dakota Public Service Commission's initiative to investigate the  appropriateness of unique electric vehicle (EV) charging rates. Specific areas in interest include private versus public facilities, cost, size, usage, and demand to inform future public infrastructure investments.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in communications, regulatory processes, research and writing, along with an interest in grid modernization, microgrids, and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

Oklahoma

• Cherokee Nation's Office of the Secretary of Natural Resources | Tahlequah, OK

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  Host Institution is open to operating status (in-person, hybrid, or remote) of Fellow for the right candidate. If remote, the Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Developing and Implementing a Clean Energy Strategic Plan for the Cherokee Nation

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support a range of clean energy efforts being led by the Tribe, including developing a Climate Action Resilience Plan, participating in a clean energy work group, and additional efforts to expand clean energy resources, access and planning.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with spreadsheet software, Microsoft 365, quantitative analysis, tribal engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in strategic planning for clean energy deployment, risk and threat assessment.

  
  

• Oklahoma Department of Commerce | Oklahoma City, OK

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Implementation and Measurement of a Modernized and More Resilient Oklahoma GRID

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Oklahoma State Energy Office's implementation of the Grid Resiliency formula grant. The Fellow will work closely with the Deputy Division Director of Community Development and Energy Programs and other members of the energy team to facilitate stakeholder meetings, develop quarterly and annual performance reports, and develop project policies and procedures

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with program development and stakeholder engagement, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in grid modernization, tribal engagement, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection | Harrisburg, PA

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Improving Pennsylvania’s Electrical Grid Resiliency

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Pennsylvania Energy Policy Office's grid resilience efforts. The Fellow will expand funding programs, manage programs efficiently, form relationships with electric distribution companies, and participate in DOE collaboratives.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, regulatory processes, and stakeholder engagement, along with an interest in distribution operations, grid modernization, and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

• Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission | Harrisburg, PA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Grid Resiliency, Reliability, and the Implementation of FERC Order 2222.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission's investigation into role in implementation of FERC Order 2222. The Fellow will study and model needs for transmission and generation in Pennsylvania and PJM territory to achieve resiliency and reliability at reasonable rates and in an equitable and justified manner.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in modeling, quantitative analysis, research and writing, Microsoft 365, WebEx, and Zoom, along with an interest in distribution operations, risk and threat assessments, and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

Rhode Island

• Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources | Providence, RI

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Energy-Efficient, Codes, Standards, and Building Benchmarking Implementation

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Rhode Island's Office of Energy Resources adoption of building energy codes, state and federal appliance standards, and research building benchmarking. The Fellow will coordinate with agencies, develop resources, manage appliance standard databases, and conduct outreach to manufacturers and trade organizations.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with building efficiency, program development, regulatory processes, research and writing, along with an interest in building efficiency.

  
  

South Dakota

• RESCo - Rosebud Sioux Tribe utility | Rosebud, SD

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Standing up the Rosebud Sioux Tribal Utility

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the development of a new tribal utility, including clean energy projects, workforce development, community outreach, and updating the Energy Strategic Plan. The Fellow will assist in community engagement activities and research to develop a revised Strategic Energy Plan.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in quantitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, and tribal engagement, along with STEM related education and knowledge of Microsoft 365 and interest in building efficiency, distribution operations, and renewable energy.

Texas

• Farmers Electric Cooperative | Greenville, TX

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Further Expanding Farmers Electric Cooperative's Distributed Energy Resources Program

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Farmers Electric to expand its Distributed Energy Resources program. The Fellow activities will include project development support, feasibility studies, stakeholder feedback, engineering analysis, implementation, and improvements.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with market assessment, program development, and quantitative analysis, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, and renewable energy generation.

Vermont

• Burlington Electric Department | Burlington, VT

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Building Grid-edge Integrated and Aggregated Network of Thermal Storage (Building GIANTS)

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Burlington Electric Department grid resiliency project intended to enable thermal storage in residential and commercial buildings by pre-positioning their heating systems in advance of load reduction events. The Fellow will support data acquisition and analysis, assist with device integration with core system(s) and commercial and industrial customer outreach, and develop and maintain algorithms, software tools, and data pipelines to enable and evaluate thermal flexible load management using Python and SQL databases

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with energy modeling, IOT devices and knowledge of integration of and/or management of distributed resources, Excel and GIS software proficiency, quantitative analysis, research and writing, and demand response device integration and optimization.

  
  

• Town of Stowe Electric Department | Stowe, VT

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Enhancing equitable energy transformation and grid modernization opportunities for low and moderate income customers.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Town of Stowe Electric Department's project aimed at encouraging adoption of beneficial electrification and demand side management programs among all customers with an emphasis on serving vulnerable and income-qualified customers. The Fellow will also participate in Stowe Electric's undergraduate internship program to expand its reach and showcase the utility's commitment to serving all customers equally.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have research and writing, customer engagement, modeling and data analytics, quantitative analysis, and regulatory process skills, along with an interest in grid operations and renewable energy generation.

  
  

Washington

• Clallam County Public Utility District | Sequim, WA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Developing and Delivering a Low-Income Energy Assistance Program

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Clallam County Public Utility District's Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA)-Compliant Low Income Energy Assistance Program. The Fellow will contribute to the program's design, implementation, and reporting, ensuring the PUD makes short-term progress towards achieving 100% clean electricity supply by 2045.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with program management and development, qualitative and quantitative analysis, along with an interest in tribal engagement, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Seattle City Light | Seattle, WA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Analyzing, forecasting, and optimizing electrification effects on the distribution grid serving the greater Seattle region.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Seattle City Light's “Creating Our Energy Future” initiative and analyze the impacts of electrification projects. The Fellow will assist with research and data analysis for bus electrification, non-wires solutions and load flexibility in buildings, and outreach and education with City Light employees and customers.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have knowledge of electric power and load forecasting, experience with quantitative analysis and data visualization, and a passion for advancing public transit electrification, building efficiency, and equity. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills including data analysis, data visualization, macros, pivot tables, graphing, Tableau, and Microsoft Word are required.

  
  

• The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation | Nespelem, WA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Developing an Energy Program for the Colville Tribes

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Colvile Tribe's Climate Action Coordinator to develop an energy program, monitor grants, and incorporate traditional knowledge. Multiple projects will be implemented simultaneously.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, quantitative analysis, and tribal engagement, along with an interest in equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Washington State Department of Commerce | Olympia, WA

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  Fellow can choose to participate fully remote within Washington or can work in a hybrid fashion at one of Commerce’s offices (Olympia, Seattle, Spokane). In either set-up, it is anticipated that there will be in-person visits with community stakeholders.

  Project Title: Developing Resources to Support Investment in Clean Energy Projects

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Washington State Energy Office's development of resources to help nonprofits, local governments, community-based organizations, tribal governments, and internal Commerce staff access clean energy projects. The Fellow will support and consult with a variety of State Energy Office staff, and could be connected to staff at other state agencies working on similar issues.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in tribal engagement, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

Wisconsin

• Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc. | Lac du Flambeau, WI

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status at the GLITC headquarters or one of the Tribal Communities GLITC serves.

  Project Title: Sustainable Energy Innovations for the Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the development of green energy infrastructure plans for a new Adolescent Recovery Wellness Center (ARWC) facility, research and analyze elements of a green energy infrastructure plan, and/or support development of an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy at the request of GLITC Tribal members to assist them with meeting the statutory requirements for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will be a self-directed critical thinker, active listener, collaborator & innovator able to work with limited resources and have experience with tribal engagement, GIS, research and writing, along with interests in energy conservation, renewable energy generation and equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Public Service Commission of Wisconsin | Madison, WI

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period); however, for the right candidate, the Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. If remote, the Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Economic Analysis of Grid Services and Distributed Energy Resources

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin's advanced economic analysis to investigate regulatory and economic structures allowing distributed technologies to interact with the bulk power system and provide essential grid services. The Fellow will perform analysis and modeling, market assessment, and explore the regulatory and economic structures.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in market assessment, modeling, research and writing, along with an interest in grid modernization and renewable energy generation.

  
  

Arizona

• Executive Office of the State of Arizona | Phoenix, AZ

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Improving Resilience In Arizona through Grid Solutions (IRAGS)

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Arizona Office of Resiliency's to protect vulnerable communities and build a clean energy economy. The Fellow will work closely with the Director and the Deputy Director of the Governor’s Office of Resiliency, as well as key community stakeholders, including utility partners, to complete key project deliverables.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with program development, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in grid modernization, transmission infrastructure, risk and threat assessment.

• Navajo Nation Government - Minerals Department | Window Rock, AZ

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Quantifying Clean Energy Impacts on the Navajo Nation

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Navajo Nation's quest to develop a renewable energy program in collaboration with the tribal government. The project aims to identify energy-related challenges and opportunities, requiring technical assistance for clean/renewable energy development, production, distribution, and consumption.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in renewable energy, regulatory processes, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in renewable energy generation, tribal engagement, risk and threat assessments.

• Trico Electric Cooperative, Inc. | Marana, AZ

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Using Data Analytics and Machine Learning to Better Understand and Respond to Changing Member Needs and Incorporate Distributed Energy Resources.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Trico Electric Cooperative's plan of mapping its data and data sources, identifying users and owners of the data, and analyzing its strengths and weaknesses. The fellow will collaborate with the team to build internal systems to automate data reporting, analyze the data, implement machine learning software, and help the cooperative to make better-informed decisions. The Fellow will also help with designing a plan to improve collection, management and use of data from smart-grid devices, and distributed and renewable energy resources.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with modeling, qualitative and quantitative analysis, SQL, Tableau, and Mosaic, along with an interest in distribution operations, grid modernization, risk and threat assessment.

   

California

• California Energy Commission | Sacramento, CA

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Developing a Strategic Plan to Guide Statewide Efforts that Support the Buildout of the Lithium Valley Vision

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the California Energy Commission's goal to develop a Strategic Plan to guide California's efforts to advance its Lithium Valley Vision.  The Fellow will contribute to the project by reviewing research, participating in meetings, and building relationships with local communities.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with stakeholder engagement, tribal engagement, research and writing, Microsoft 365 including SharePoint and Teams, along with an interest in energy storage, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Sacramento Municipal Utility District | Sacramento, CA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Delivering an EV Market Analysis & Planning (EVMAP) Tool

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD)in developing an EV Market Analysis & Planning (EVMAP) tool to help the city reach its Zero Carbon generation goal by 2030. The tool will help identify locations for EVs, assess electric service capacity, and identify low-income workplaces. The Fellow will interview internal teams and identify data sources needed to meet tool requirements, validate the tool, and report findings to leadership.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with market assessment, modeling, and program development, along with an interest in energy storage, sustainable transportation, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Tule River Tribal Nation | Porterville, CA

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  Fellow will need to relocate and work on-site is preferred. Flexibility will be considered, including fully remote, for the right candidate. If remote, the Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Advance Development and Operational Synergies of the Tule River Tribal Nation's Clean Tech Manufacturing Facilities

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Tule River Tribe's efforts to establish a clean technology manufacturing center, focusing on biomass energy production and Zero Energy Ready Homes (ZERH) modular housing manufacturing. Areas of research and support will include project development, interdisciplinary team planning, workforce training programs, and integrating electric and autonomous vehicles.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative and quantitative analysis, research and writing, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in distribution operations, renewable energy generation, and sustainable transportation.

  
  

Connecticut

• Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection | New Britain, CT

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Optimizing and Continuously Improving Connecticut’s Energy Efficiency Programs

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Bureau of Energy and Technology Policy in overseeing programs and integrating federal funding with existing state energy efficiency initiatives. The Fellow will review and guide program evaluations, align federal funding for two efficiency programs, analyze program metrics, and implement recommendations from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) scorecard.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative and quantitative analysis, research and writing, along with an interest in building efficiency, energy policy, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority | New Britain, CT

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Implementing Connecticut’s Equitable Modern Grid Reliability and Resilience Frameworks

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority's Reliability, Security and Resilience Unit in assessing the reliability and resilience of Connecticut's electric grid. This includes supporting the launch of the Non-Wires Solutions Process, analyzing electric energy storage projects, and evaluating EDCs' planned investments in advanced metering infrastructure. The Fellow will perform technical analysis, stakeholder engagement, and procedural tasks.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, Microsoft 365, including SharePoint and Teams, along with an interest in distribution operations, grid modernization, risk and threat assessments.

  
  

District of Columbia

• DC Department of Energy and Environment | Washington, DC

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Grid Modernization - Improving the District of Columbia's Interconnection Regulations and Distributed Energy Resource Tariff structures.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the DC Department of Energy and Environment's project to advance actions at the DC Public Service Commission to improve both the current tariff structures and interconnection regulations. The Fellow will collaborate with DOEE staff and partners, write Commission filings, collect and analyze data, and provide technical knowledge and expertise.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have modeling, quantitative analysis, and regulatory process skills, along with an interest in grid operations and renewable energy generation.

  
  

Florida

• Florida Office of Energy | Tallahassee, FL

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Florida Energy Fellowship Program.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Florida Office of Energy's initiatives focused on solar on agricultural lands, manure digesters, and assessing rural county energy infrastructures. The Fellow will assist in planning the Rural Energy Roundtables, aiming to address energy challenges in rural communities. Through research and data analysis, the Fellow will develop policy recommendations based on insights gathered during the workshops.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, program development, research and writing, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in renewable energy generation, equity and environmental justice, and workforce development.

  
  

Hawaii

• Hawaii Public Utilities Commission | Honolulu, HI

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Alternative Methods to Develop Distributed Resources for Resiliency

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission to analyze the effectiveness of current mechanisms to develop distributed resources for resiliency, determine priorities for alternative methods, ensure opportunities for equitable participation, and support program implementation. The Fellow will focus on assessment of regulatory obligations, utility and programmatic operational efficiencies, program cost effectiveness, and State policy priorities.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, quantitative analysis, research and writing, along with an interest in distribution operations, renewable energy generation, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Hawaii State Energy Office | Honolulu, HI

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Effectiveness of advanced visualization technologies for education and community engagement

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Hawaii State Energy Office's project that aims to measure the effectiveness of visualization tools to explain alternative pathways to 100% renewable energy. The Fellow will assist with identifying specific engagement opportunities including audience and targeted educational outcomes project, development of curriculum and training materials for teachers and facilitators, and support community outreach.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, and developing surveys, along with an interest in renewable energy generation, risk and threat assessments, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

Iowa

• Iowa Utilities Board | Des Moines, IA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period); however, for the right candidate, the Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. If remote, the Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Effective Engagement in SPP and MISO Transmission Planning Processes

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Iowa Utility Board in transmission planning, cost allocation, siting, and permitting processes. The Fellow will build and maintain understanding of emerging trends in generation technologies, future load growth, and new technologies and best practice methods in transmission planning.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, regulatory processes, and stakeholder engagement, along with interest in renewable energy generation, transmission infrastructure, risk and threat assessment.

  
  

Maine

• Maine Governor's Energy Office | Augusta, ME

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Advance Community and Stakeholder Engagement to Meet Clean Energy Targets, Improve Resiliency, Strengthen Economic Development Opportunities, Increase Energy Affordability, and Maximize Federal Investment Opportunities.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support The Maine Governor’s Energy Office's development of a community and stakeholder engagement strategy to achieve the state’s clean energy laws and policies. The Fellow will play a critical role in developing a community engagement strategy in line with the state energy plan, stakeholder engagement tracking system, and enhancing engagement with communities across the state to achieve climate and clean energy goals, in line with community priorities.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, and renewable energy generation.

  
  

Massachusetts

• Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources | Boston, MA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Advancing Electric Load Management in the Commonwealth

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources project aimed to improve load management in the Commonwealth. The Fellow will perform tasks such as summarizing and reviewing load management activities, researching potential reductions in peak load, developing a strategic plan for coordinating efforts, and analyzing the impact of decarbonization policies on electric load.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with quantitative analysis, regulatory processes, research and writing, Microsoft 365, utility regulatory processes, energy analysis, and data visualization is highly preferred, along with building efficiency, distribution operations, and grid modernization.

  
  

• Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities | Boston, MA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Developing best practices, tracking metrics, and evaluating public participation and environmental justice activities at the Department of Public Utilities as Massachusetts works toward an equitable clean energy transition.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the new Director of Environmental Justice and Public Participation, which is the first position of its kind in the history of the Department of Public Utilities. The Fellow will track metrics, assess the agency's implementation of its Environmental Justice Strategy, Language Access Plan, and Tiering and Outreach Strategy, and contribute to a written report on best practices for multilingual public hearings and meetings.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Northeast Public Power Association | Littlteton, MA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Understanding and developing a path for public power to meet New England's Clean Energy Goals.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Northeast Public Power Association through researching state goals for electrification and clean energy, work with 78 Cooperative and Municipal Utilities, and collaborate with Joint Action Agencies to identify hurdles, risks, and costs. The Fellow will create a regional plan, facilitate working group meetings, write reports, facilitate public meetings, estimate obstacles, and present at conferences.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, Microsoft 365, and survey software, along with an interest in building efficiency, distribution operations, and sustainable transportation.

  
  

Minnesota

• Great River Energy | Maple Grove, MN

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Strategies for Rural Beneficial Electrification

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Great River Energy's goal to accelerate rural beneficial electrification by analyzing barriers and opportunities, developing a "rural beneficial electrification liftoff report," and proposing pilot programs. The Fellow will conduct interviews, data analysis, and research with various stakeholders to identify gaps in their networks and develop a pilot program.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in energy storage, distribution operations, equity and environmental justice. Qualitative research software i.e. scrubbing, transcription, and coding will be helpful.

  
  

• Minnesota Department of Commerce | Saint Paul, MN

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Advancing Clean Energy: Exploring Energy Storage Solutions for Grid Modernization

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Minnesota Department of Commerce's project aimed at exploring the role of energy storage in the clean energy transition. The Fellow will conduct research on various energy storage technologies, assessing their suitability for different grid applications, and evaluating their potential benefits.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with modeling, quantitative analysis, research and writing, Microsoft 365, and utility resource planning, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, and grid modernization.

  
  

Montana

• Montana Energy Office | Helena, MT

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Developing Grid Resilience Metrics and Distribution System Planning Processes for Montana.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Montana Energy Office's project goals of enhancing grid reliability and resilience, resulting in a grid resilience menu of options and a distribution system planning framework. The Fellow would contribute to the project by applying technical knowledge and conduct research/analysis to help identify and evaluate metrics that enhance grid reliability and resilience.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with utility reliability metrics and distribution system modeling is preferred, education/experience in power systems and electrical engineering, quantitative analysis, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in distribution operations, transmission infrastructure, risk and threat assessments.

  
  

New Mexico

• New Mexico Public Regulation Commission | Santa Fe, NM

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Integrating Clean Energy Resources for a Modernized Utility Distribution System

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the New Mexico Public Service Commission to assess the market potential for new grid services that could be provided by distributed resources. The Fellow will research distributed generation, integrated resource planning, and grid modernization to support rulemaking and policy development.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in quantitative analysis, regulatory processes, research and writing, along with an interest in distribution operations, grid modernization, and renewable energy generation

  
  

North Carolina

• North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality | Raleigh, NC

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Increasing Access to Home Electrification Across North Carolina

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, State Energy Office's development of the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program. The Fellow will collaborate with the team to design and implement a robust program framework, engage with external stakeholders, determine project locations that fit the program, and ensure there is a qualified workforce to support the increase in demand.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with program development, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, Microsoft 365 and Teams, along with an interest in building efficiency, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC) | Raleigh, NC

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Microgrid @Scale - Deploying a Proof of Concept microgrid based on NCEMC’s Microgrid @Scale Template

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support NCEMC's Distributed Energy Resources Engineering team and a local cooperative to implement the Proof of Concept microgrid by deploying the microgrid, designing testing for use cases, and refining the design to enable larger scale future deployment. The project goal is to provide reliable, affordable, sustainable energy and local community support, reducing microgrid customization costs and achieving economies of scale. The Fellow will document their success with a white paper and presentation to NCEMC leadership and staff and the member-cooperatives.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with program development, quantitative analysis, project management support, and stakeholder engagement, along with an interest in distribution operations and energy storage.

  
  

• Roanoke Cooperative | Aulander, NC

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Operationalizing Data Analytics Strategy Plan

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Roanoke Cooperative's Data Analytics Strategy Plan to improve efficiency and meet member-owners needs, ensuring clean energy strategies are implemented throughout the cooperative's operational and information systems. The Fellow will collaborate with engineers and VP of Innovation to launch implementation of the Data Analytics Strategy Plan with the development of a Dash Board that will compile data that will monetize the innovation efforts impacts.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, qualitative and quantitative analysis, Microsoft 365, and data visualization, along with an interest in building efficiency, energy storage, and sustainable transportation.

  
  

Ohio

• Cuyahoga County  | Cleveland, OH

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Launching Cuyahoga Green Energy – the first microgrid-focused Utility in the U.S.

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Cuyahoga Green Energy, a new county-led power utility, to develop microgrid strategies and green electricity online. The Fellow will support project design and procurement strategies with the goal of bringing two new microgrid projects online within the next two years.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with program development, quantitative analysis, and regulatory processes, along with an interest in distribution operations, renewable energy generation, and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

Oregon

• Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission | Portland, OR

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Advancing Salmon-Friendly and Tribally-Just Grid Modernization Outcomes

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will identify, recommend, and advocate for actions to achieve contemporary grid modernization goals consistent with policies and recommendations from tribal nations of the Columbia Basin. Research and support will include reports, stakeholder engagement, drafting comments, and participating in planning, strategy and coordination meetings.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with regulatory processes, stakeholder engagement, and energy policy, along with an interest in grid modernization, tribal engagement, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

• Oregon Department of Energy | Salem, OR

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Support for Implementing Energy Elements of the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative (CBRI)

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Oregon Department's Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative, a collaboration between the Federal government, Tribes, and Oregon and Washington. The goal is to restore wild salmon populations, expand Tribally sponsored clean energy production, and provide stability for communities relying on the Columbia River System. The Fellow will engage with regional utilities, brief agency leadership, review documents, models and scenarios, and attend planning meetings.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have knowledge of the Pacific Northwest energy system and experience with qualitative and quantitative analysis, engaging with Tribes, modeling, research and writing, along with an interest in grid modernization, transmission infrastructure, and renewable energy generation.

  
  

• Oregon Public Utility Commission | Salem, OR

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Talking about DERs: Informed Communications to Support Policy Development

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Oregon Public Utility Commission in advancing distributed energy resources and load flexibility. The Fellow will develop knowledge of the PUC's regulatory responsibilities and stakeholder priorities, communication material, facilitate listening sessions, and synthesize information to inform policy proposals.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with communications, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in equity and environmental justice, distribution operations, and grid modernization.

  
  

Puerto Rico

• Cooperativa Hidroeléctrica de la Montaña | Utuado, PR

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Setting the pace with USDA PACE: Accelerating the energy transformation by leveraging widespread implementation of photovoltaic residential and small commercial microgrids for community resiliency

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Cooperativa  Hidroeléctrica de la Montañato to begin development and design for the installation of the 82 photovoltaic residential and small commercial microgrids. The Fellow will research and analyze the photovoltaic and on-site storage technologies on the market and their suitability for projects in the rural mountains of Puerto Rico to aid in the selection and procurement of equipment and materials for the project.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have proficiency in conversational Spanish and experience with program development, quantitative analysis, research and writing, Microsoft 365, GIS principles, and project management, along with an interest in distribution operations, equity and environmental justice, and renewable energy generation.

  
  

South Carolina

• Public Service Commission of South Carolina | Columbia, SC

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Developing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Utilities

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will assist the South Carolina Commission in developing regulations that, ultimately, will go to the South Carolina General Assembly for review. The Fellow will create a research report proposing key performance indicators (KPIs) for utilities, participate in the Commission's daily operations and learn about ongoing utility regulation.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have qualitative analysis, research, writing, and stakeholder engagement experience, along with an interest in distributed energy and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

• South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff Energy Office | Columbia, SC

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: South Carolina Energy Action Plan Development

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support South Carolina's Energy Office plans to reimagine its annual energy action plan to be more comprehensive and relevant to audiences unfamiliar with the energy sector. The Fellow will research and develop a framework using Oregon's Biennial Energy Report, compiling data on energy generation mix, and drafting the report.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative and quantitative analysis, research and writing, Microsoft 365, and GIS, along with an interest in grid modernization, renewable energy generation, risk and threat assessments.

  
  

Tennessee

• Knoxville Utilities Board | Knoxville, TN

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Paving the way for Knoxville’s sustainable energy ecosystem: optimizing energy efficiency, demand response, and consumer behavior strategies

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support Knoxville Utilities Board's (KUB) goal of understanding electricity and natural gas consumption data for the KUB service territory to optimize energy efficiency, demand response, and consumer behavior programs. The Fellow will assist KUB's Utility Transformation Team to identify programs, strategies, and opportunities for energy affordability, decarbonization, and cost savings.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with analytics, statistics, programming language/coding (preferred), Microsoft 365, market assessment, modeling, and quantitative analysis, along with an interest in building efficiency, grid modernization, and demand management.

  
  

• Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation | Nashville, TN

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Electrical Outage Data Analysis to Inform Grid Resiliency Investments

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Office of Energy Program's collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) project to set historical baseline for power outages in the state. The Fellow will assist ORNL and other stakeholders to identify critical grid performance metrics and to conduct a data-driven analysis of outages to inform project selection criteria.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with modeling, qualitative analysis, research and writing, Microsoft 365, GIS (ArcGIS Pro), Adobe Acrobat, along with an interest in distribution operations, grid modernization, risk and threat assessment. Data analytics (e.g. SQL) and data visualization (e.g. Python) skills are also preferred.

  
  

Utah

• Utah Office of Energy Development | Salt Lake City, UT

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Enhancing Grid Resilience and Expanding Renewable Energy Integration of Geothermal Energy for Electric Utility in Utah

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Utah Office of Energy Development evaluate the potential to expand geothermal energy in the state. The Fellow will research barriers and incentives, participate in stakeholder meetings, evaluate policies, synthesize and present findings.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience in communications, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, along with an interest in renewable generation and transmission infrastructure.

  
  

Virginia

• Rappahannock Electric Cooperative | Fredericksburg, VA

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Expanding Commercial/Industrial Clean Energy DER Integration Programs for Resilience and Grid Optimization

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the expansion of Rappahannock Electric Cooperative's Vividly Brighter™ program offerings, focusing on commercial and industrial member base. The Fellow will assist in developing programs like solar, battery storage, and VPP, and implementing vehicle to grid technologies. The primary goals are to research, develop, and identify entry points for a comprehensive suite of commercial and industrial account products/services.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with Microsoft 365, program development, quantitative analysis, research and writing, along with distribution operations, energy storage, and renewable energy generation.

  
  

• Virginia Department of Energy | Richmond, VA

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for a hybrid operating status (hybrid meaning a combination of on-site/in-person days and virtual during a work week or pay period).

  Project Title: Bringing Diversity and Inclusion into Virginia’s Energy Workforce: Creating Opportunities for Women and Underrepresented Individuals in the Energy Ecosystem

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Virginia Department of Energy’s mission to lead the Commonwealth to a reliable and responsible energy future. The Fellow will support the project through analysis of Virginia's energy workforce and create programs to support diversity, opportunity, and inclusion.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with Microsoft 365, facilitation, research and stakeholder interviews, workforce development, market assessment, program development, and stakeholder engagement, along with an interest in equity and environmental justice, tribal engagement, and workforce development.

  
  

West Virginia

• West Virginia Office of Energy | Charleston, WV

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  Fellow will need to relocate to the area for an on-site, in-person operating status.

  Project Title: Lowering Barriers to Large-Scale Energy Generation and Transmission Project Implementation Through Meaningful Community Engagement

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the West Virginia Office of Energy's goal to increase the implementation success rate of large energy infrastructure projects through sustained, meaningful community engagement. The Fellow will assist with development of the project by conducting research to understanding barriers, surveying organizations or peer institutions, and gather data on best practices.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with market assessment, stakeholder engagement, research and writing, Google Suite, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in distribution operations, grid modernization, equity and environmental justice.

  
  

Wyoming

• Wyoming Public Service Commission | Cheyenne, WY

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  Fellow can participate in a fully remote operating status and does not need to relocate to the area. The Fellow may need to travel to the Host Institution a few times throughout their appointment for in-person site visits.

  Project Title: Evaluating Decarbonized Options for Storage and Other Advanced Technologies for Maintaining Resilient, Reliable and Affordable Electricity

  Project Description: The Innovator Fellow will support the Wyoming Public Service Commission's plan to evaluate concerns about the reliability of the grid and the safety of decarbonized dispatchable power are growing. The Fellow will refine the project and scope of work working in partnership with the Chairman, research existing and emerging technologies, develop a regulatory gap analysis, and explore policy options for requiring or incentivizing dispatchable technology.

  Ideal Fellow: An ideal Fellow will have experience with qualitative analysis, regulatory processes, research and writing, and Microsoft 365, along with an interest in distribution operations, energy storage, risk and threat assessments.