Graduation Date: June 2012
Degree(s): M.S. Management Science and Engineering; B.S. Earth Systems Program
Jonathan contributed to two projects: First, he reviewed the inputs of the cost effectiveness models for energy efficiency. These "avoided cost" models set the level of energy efficiency that the utilities can procure. The memos he wrote on discount rates and avoided cost calculations for utility energy efficiency programs will be invaluable to NRDC's analysis of the changes that will be considered at the California Public Utilities Commission and to the development of NRDC's policy recommendations in this area.
For the second project, he interviewed utility electric vehicle program managers across the country to understand their financial and non-financial motives for being involved in the market. The subsequent memo and presentation helped NRDC understand how regulation affected utilities' actions (and how it could be applied more broadly to prepare a utility's customers for electric vehicles). This research has already had a significant impact on NRDC's strategic planning and its electric vehicle public advocacy efforts in California and in other states.
"I think this fellowship was the first time that I really saw how the non-profit sector operated. It brought me into contact with a whole class of people who were incredibly hard working while striving for social mission-and who did so within the framework of how the real world operates. That's a rare opportunity and I took away from it how activism can and should be done."
Jonathan Anderson
"The MAP fellowships allow us to conduct research and writing that would otherwise not be possible given the daily demands of our advocates jobs."
Max Baumhefner, Sustainable Energy Fellow
Simon Mui, Scientist
Lara Ettenson, Director, California Energy Efficiency Program
Natural Resources Defense Council