Lauren Ross

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Lauren Ross

Senior Director, Research & Strategy
Senior Management Team

Lauren joined NEEP in March of 2026 as the Senior Director for Research and Strategy. In this role she provides leadership for the organization’s research and policy programs and guides the development and execution of strategic priorities. Her work focuses on advancing equitable, scalable clean energy solutions that strengthen community resilience and affordability across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

Before joining NEEP, Lauren served as the director of energy policy at Enterprise, overseeing federal policy efforts on clean energy and disaster resilience to support the development and preservation of energy‑efficient, climate‑ready affordable housing. She previously held senior roles in the federal government, including deputy director of energy justice at the U.S. Department of Energy and senior advisor for housing and sustainability at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Earlier in her career, Lauren was the senior director of policy at the American Council for an Energy‑Efficient Economy, where she led policy initiatives at the local, state, national, and utility levels. Across her roles, she has focused on program and policy research, technical assistance, and cross‑sector collaboration aimed at expanding access to clean, affordable, and resilient energy solutions.

Lauren holds a PhD in urban sociology from Temple University. 

Q: If you could invite any three people to dinner, who would they be?

A: I’d gather three brilliant women who have reshaped the world through their leadership and vision: Ketanji Brown Jackson, Melinda French Gates, and Michelle Obama. Their wisdom, resilience, and impact would certainly make for an unforgettable dinner party.

Q:  If you weren’t working at NEEP, what other job would you have?

A: Kindergarten teacher, hands down. Being surrounded by the curiosity, honesty, and boundless imagination of young children, and helping nurture the next generation as they discover the world - sounds like a wonderful way to spend the day.

Q:  If you could spend one week anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?

A: Lima, Peru. Over the years, it has become a second home for my family—a place where the people, culture, food, and natural beauty bring us deep joy and a sense of belonging. 

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