Laurie ten Hope is Deputy Director for Research & Development at the California Energy Commission. She leads the State's public interest R&D to advance clean energy innovation and technology development. The program is a catalyst for transforming to a renewable and efficient energy future, with minimal environmental impact. Laurie previously served as Senior Advisor for Commissioner Jeffrey Byron, with a policy focus on energy efficiency, distributed energy, public interest RD&D, and transmission access for renewables. Previously, Laurie managed the Energy Systems Research Office at the Energy Commission, developing research initiatives to mitigate environmental impacts; improve electricity infrastructure, and develop clean transportation alternatives. Laurie has a BA in Environmental Science from the State University of New York.