By: Kim Pizzingrilli & Lauren Orazi
The One+ Strategies team wrapped up an insightful week at the NARUC Summer Policy Summit in Boston, where federal and state regulators, utility leaders, and industry stakeholders came together to explore the critical issues shaping America’s infrastructure future.
With participation from FERC Commissioners, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Deputy Secretary, the EPA Administrator, and the Acting PHMSA Administrator, the summit offered a robust federal perspective. A dedicated FERC-state collaborative added depth to discussions around regulatory coordination and joint problem-solving — a theme that ran throughout the week.
American Energy Leadership
One of the central themes throughout the summit was how to position the United States as a global leader in energy policy and innovation. From smart grid deployment to domestic manufacturing, panelists showcased how U.S.-based companies are leading the charge in new energy technologies — creating jobs, strengthening energy security, and ensuring U.S.-made products are at the forefront of the global transition.
Data Centers, AI, + Grid Capacity
The explosive growth of AI technologies and large load customers such as data centers put a spotlight on grid capacity and infrastructure readiness. These themes surfaced across multiple panels, prompting critical conversations around long-term planning, permitting, and coordination between RTOs, states and utilities to meet rising demand.
Reliability, Affordability, + Opportunity in Natural Gas
As energy systems grow more complex, natural gas continues to play a critical role in grid resilience. Several sessions explored the implications of rising gas production, its safe distribution, and the importance of maintaining affordability. This conversation has special relevance for Pennsylvania, where abundant gas resources offer both economic and strategic advantages. PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank, Chair of the NARUC Gas Committee, led the adoption of resolutions focused on efficiency and innovation in gas policy, reaffirming the state’s leadership on these issues.
Water Infrastructure
Beyond energy, the summit brought focus to the water industry, with discussions around PFAS remediation, aging infrastructure, and how utilities continue to invest to modernize systems.
Building Resilience + Embracing Innovation
From gas-electric coordination to demand-side management, panelists explored strategies to enhance electric reliability and build resilient systems in the face of growing threats and evolving customer needs.
Tariffs + Supply Chain Pressures
While not a leading issue, tariffs and trade policy emerged in several discussions, particularly in relation to the sourcing of equipment and technologies that support critical infrastructure development. This will remain a watchpoint for regulators and stakeholders alike.
Commissioner Emeritus
Over 50 former federal and state regulators joined the conference and shared insights on how they continue to make an impact across the country. Emeritus also serve as a resource with sitting Commissioners through an Ambassador program. The NARUC team provided an update on the professional development program and discussed ways the Emeritus could assist in educating Commissioners and staff from across the country.
Looking Ahead
The NARUC Summer Policy Summit once again provided a national stage for sharing ideas, shaping policy, and identifying emerging challenges across the utility and infrastructure sectors. We’re proud to engage with these leaders and look forward to helping our clients navigate the policy landscape.
Kudos to NARUC President Pridemore and the entire NARUC team for another exceptional event.
