FUTURE OF NATURAL GAS

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SEPTEMBER 10

Online Program

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Central
0.3 CEUs

AGENDA

Demand for natural gas remains strong and is expected to be a key component in the energy transition. This program will explore the role of natural gas amid net-zero emissions and how gas system planning and electric system planning might be integrated. Additionally, national experts will share their insight on what is happening with natural gas and what the future holds. The program will conclude with a panel of seasoned regulators from across the country who will discuss how different states are looking at the future of natural gas.

9:00-9:05             Welcome Remarks
Summer Strand, Chairperson, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

9:05 – 9:40          The Role of Natural Gas in Net-Zero Emissions – What does net zero actually mean, when do we need to reach net zero, and what is the right role for natural gas in order that net-zero emissions to be achieved?
Ryan Foelske, Head of Engage & Act, Carbon-Free Electricity Program, RMI

9:40 – 10:10          Integrating Gas and Electric Systems Planning – Considerations for policymakers and stakeholders while planning for the long-term future of gas distribution networks.
Karsten Barde, Director, Policy & Regulatory Strategy, National Grid

10:10 – 11:00         What is Happening with Natural Gas? – Learn about what the future holds for natural gas and how some challenges may be addressed with innovative initiatives utilities are implementing.
Moderator:
Tyler Kahl, Senior Manager, Power, Utilities and Renewables, Deloitte
Panel:
Ciaran Gallagher, Energy and Air Manager, Clean Wisconsin
Phil La Susa, Assistant Vice President-Gas Strategy and Sustainability, Alliant Energy
Lauren Quillian, Director of Energy & Environmental Policy, Xcel Energy
Corey Singletary, Director of Regulatory Affairs, Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin
Christine Vaughan, CEO, LaReg Corp.

11:00 – 11:10           Break

11:10 – 12:00          State Commission Discussion on the Future of Natural Gas – Regulatory proceedings on natural gas, and states’ plans for what’s next.
Moderator:
Kristy Nieto, Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Panel:
Joshua Byrnes, Commissioner, Iowa Utilities Commission
John S. Harvey, Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Utah
Doug Scott, Chairman, Illinois Commerce Commission
James Van Nostrand, Chair, Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

March 18, 2025
Public Utilities Law Update - In-Person Program
March 31-April 4, 2025
Regional Transmission Organization Fundamentals & RTO Advanced - Hybrid Programs
June 24, 2025
Water - Online Program
September 9, 2025
Load Growth - Online Program
October 6-10, 2025
Energy Utility Basics 2025 - Hybrid Program
October 25, 2025
Energy Security - Online Program
October 5-9, 2026
Energy Utility Basics 2026 - Hybrid Program

COMPLETED PROGRAMS

January 23, 2025 Members-Only
Introducing the GREEN-Z Consortium
February 12, 2025 Members-Only
Short-Term Energy Outlook for 2025