Ric O’Connell is the founding Executive Director of GridLab, a non-profit providing unbiased technical leadership to drive the clean energy transition. With deep expertise in grid modernization and reliability, Ric steers GridLab’s mission to design a decarbonized energy future. Previously, he spearheaded the global renewable energy consulting practice at Black & Veatch and supported the development of over 8 GW of utility-scale solar projects globally. Ric holds a BSEE from Duke University and a Master’s in Renewable Energy Policy from CU Boulder, uniquely positioning him at the intersection of technical innovation and policy strategy