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Ryan Sidawi, a Master of Environmental Management and Master of Business Administration student, spent his summer as an intern in the Office of Energy Market Regulation at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Each year, Nicholas School of the Environment students complete internships with organizations around the world. These internships provide valuable opportunities to gain career-related experience and build a professional network. 

51±¬ÁÏ Environment recently caught up with Ryan to learn more about his experience.

What projects did you work on during your internship? What did you find most rewarding or memorable?

During my internship at FERC’s Office of Energy Market Regulation, I primarily analyzed and reviewed regulatory filings to ensure compliance with FERC regulations. This included scrutinizing various filings submitted by energy market participants to verify adherence to established guidelines. Additionally, I conducted a significant research project on "Current State of EV Infrastructure in the Eastern RTOs, Expected Growth, and Identifying Possible Issues That FERC Will Eventually Adjudicate." This project culminated in a comprehensive thesis and a presentation to FERC leadership. The most rewarding aspect was presenting my findings to senior FERC officials, which provided an opportunity to influence future regulatory considerations for EV infrastructure.

How did the coursework and resources at the Nicholas School prepare you for success in this role as well as your internship search?

The coursework at the Nicholas School of the Environment provided me with a solid foundation in the complexities of electricity markets and regulatory frameworks. The course "Markets for Electric Power" provided essential insights into the economics and operations of the electric power system, including the impacts of various policies and market designs. This knowledge was directly applicable to my role at FERC, enabling me to effectively review compliance reports and understand the broader implications of regulatory decisions. Additionally, the "Energy Economics and Policy" course, which examined the economics of markets and policies for various energy supply sources, demand, and efficiency, helped me in conducting in-depth research for my thesis project and understanding the policy implications impacting the EV space.

How do you envision this experience contributing to your long-term career goals?

This internship has solidified my interest in pursuing a career in the energy sector. The experience provided a comprehensive introduction to various aspects of the energy industry, including regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, and policy considerations. The skills and insights gained during this internship will be instrumental in my future endeavors, whether in federal agencies, consulting firms or private sector companies within the energy industry. This foundational experience has equipped me with a nuanced understanding of the energy market, which will be valuable in any energy-related role I pursue in the future.

Ryan Sidawi at the FERC Summer Intern Kickoff Celebration.