January 29, 2025

At the forefront of clean energy policy

Michael O’Boyle (JD ‘14) is leading the way in clean energy policy as the senior director of electricity at Energy Innovation. His work includes designing policies that help the United States’ electricity grid go green. His time at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University gave him the tools he needed to learn about the fundamental concepts of energy and environmental law.

Today, O’Boyle blends policy and technology as he works with lawmakers in states like California, New York and Hawaii to connect their goals with what electric utilities need. He said his law degree still comes in handy when dealing with regulations, but his role also means learning about areas like engineering, finance and economics. 

“In my role, I have the chance to make an impact and bend the curve toward a lower carbon, healthier future. I'm proud of that,” he said.

One of his greatest achievements so far is a project called the 2035 Report, which showed that a 90% carbon-free grid by 2045 is doable. These findings played a big part in shaping the Biden administration’s clean energy goals. 

For O’Boyle, it’s all about making a real impact. He’s working to create policies that move the country closer to a cleaner, more reliable energy future. His journey from law school to leading energy innovation shows how a legal background can open doors to shaping the future in big ways

Written by Crystal Jimenez