The Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP) has appointed Dr. Carl Linvill a principal in its U.S. program. Linvill brings nearly 30 years of experience on energy matters to RAP, where he will lead RAP’s work on renewable energy integration and transmission planning in the Western U.S., while serving all regions in meeting today’s energy planning challenges.

Linvill will join RAP on February 11, 2013, from the Aspen Environmental Group, where he directs their Integrated Energy Analysis & Planning Division. Prior to working at Aspen, he served as a public utilities commissioner in Nevada, an economic and energy advisor to Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn, and as an academic economist. In his roles as regulator, policy advisor, and economist he has focused on integrated electric resource planning, energy efficiency planning and evaluation, renewable energy valuation and procurement, electricity demand forecasting, and decision-making under conditions of high-impact uncertainties.

“Carl’s recent work evaluating resource futures for the Western Interconnection and his service as energy efficiency technology advocate at the Western Electric Coordinating Council—among his many roles—will prove invaluable in allowing RAP to continue providing policymakers with senior-level advice and counsel,” said Rich Sedano, principal and U.S. program director. “Carl has been in the policymaker’s shoes — as an advisor to Governor Guinn and as utility commissioner he represented the Governor in the negotiation of Nevada’s Renewable Portfolio Standard law, drafted Nevada’s first statewide electricity plan, and amended Nevada’s integrated resource planning regulations.”

In addition, RAP announced the promotion of Chris James to principal on its U.S. and China teams. “Since joining RAP, Chris has spearheaded our efforts to draw connections between energy regulatory policy and air-quality outcomes,” said Sedano. “His leadership has created new opportunities for RAP to engage with air regulators across the country.”

James, a RAP veteran, brings nearly 30 years of environmental management experience advising policymakers on energy efficiency policy, air quality regulation, and carbon-reduction policies. He will continue to develop RAP’s work on utilizing energy efficiency as a compliance mechanism for air quality regulation in the U.S., as well as contribute to China’s multi-pollutant air quality management efforts. He also advises the newly formed Clean Air Alliance of China, a professional association of regional and local air regulators.

“Both Linvill and James are highly respected practitioners that strengthen our ability to serve as a resource in the U.S. and abroad. We have a great team ready to help regulators and other government officials meet their energy and environmental goals while addressing the challenges facing the sector,” added Sedano.