Maureen Helmer, co-chair of Hiscock & Barclay's Regulatory Practice Group and a partner in the Energy and Utilities Practice for the law firm has been selected to participate in the Democratic Governors Association's (DGA) Summer Policy Conference in Saratoga Springs, New York July 31 to Aug. 1.
The conference, hosted by Governor David A. Paterson of New York, will consist of an informal roundtable discussion with governors from across the country and invited speakers. Governors attending the conference include: Gov. Phil Bredesen of Tennessee, Gov. Jon Corzine of New Jersey, Gov. Martin O'Malley of Maryland, Gov. Bev Perdue of North Carolina and Gov. Bill Ritter, Jr. of Colorado.
Ms. Helmer's panel discussion with the governors will focus on how the economic environment has affected states' goals towards resolving climate change and developing sustainable energy resources; whether transmission can enhance renewable goals; and if state and federal jurisdiction over siting issues can be achieved.
"States are concerned with how to encourage investment in clean and sustainable resources, and how to take advantage of innovative technologies, such as smart grid in order to better serve their communities in the future," said Helmer. "I am delighted to be able to participate in an event that will facilitate the discussion of these and other important policy issues."