Robert & Patricia Switzer Foundation

Fellowship Year: 2007

Academic Background: UC Berkeley - Goldman School of Public Policy - Masters of Public Policy 2008- (Public Policy)

Current Position: Senior Energy Analyst , Union of Concerned Scientists

Laura is a senior energy analyst for the Union of Concerned Scientists in Berkeley, California. Current projects are focused on implementation of the state's Renewables Portfolio Standard goals and policy design associated with AB 32. Laura graduated with a Master's of Public Policy from the Goldman School of Public Policy in May 2008. At GSPP, Laura focused on western energy and water policies. Specifically, she directed her work toward helping states address climate change and protect freshwater ecosystems while meeting energy, water supply, and flood management needs. She has worked with the Sonoma County Water Agency, the renewable energy division of the California Public Utilities Commission, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Before graduate school, Laura was the Director of the California Hydropower Reform Coalition. CHRC is an association of river conservation and recreation organizations that work to restore California rivers by improving the operation of hydropower dams. The heart of Laura's work at CHRC was working with dam owners to return water to its natural channel, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and improve water quality. Laura earned her B.A. in environmental public policy from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill where she completed a thesis on the creation of financial incentives to promote land conservation in Mexico.

Expertise: Energy & Climate Change, Water Resources