N. Jonathan Peress: director, clean energy & climate change.

• Author: Peress, N. Jonathan
• Position: FIVE QUESTIONS FOR... - Interview

Prior to joining CLF in June 2010, Jonathan was a partner at Downs Rachlin Martin's Environmental Practice Group in New Hampshire. He has worked extensively on electric generation and utility regulation issues in the Northeast. Jonathan began his career at the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR), where he wrote the state regulations implementing the Clean Air Act. He is based in CLF's Concord, NH office.

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1 What sparked your interest in the environment?

My interest in environmental advocacy started at a young age and was imparted through my grandfather, an engineer and avid fisherman on the Chesapeake Bay and a member of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. I vividly recall him making speeches about proposed oil refineries on the tributaries of the bay.

2 What experiences led you to pursue a career in energy and environmental policy?

In law school, I interned at EPA for Region 1 Counsel Walter Mugden, my first mentor in environmental law. My interest grew when I worked on utility restructuring issues at ANR and became fascinated by the intersection of energy policy and environmental policy. Since then, my career has focused on that symbiotic relationship.

3 One of New England's big challenges is reducing reliance on coal-fired power plants. How will CLF help to overcome this problem and work towards a clean energy future for the region?

Our reliance on outdated coal-fired power plants is problematic to public health, the environment and the needed transformation to clean energy sources. These plants emit more global warming...