Former FERC Chair Jon Wellinghoff Discusses Consumer-Focused Career

Wellinghoff, a headlining speaker at the EMPOWER 2026 Conference, reflects on his time leading the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Jon Wellinghoff, the former Chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and current executive at Voltus, discussed his career-long focus on consumers during a keynote address at the EMPOWER 2026 Conference in Boulder, Colorado.

Why it matters

Wellinghoff's tenure at FERC was marked by a push for policies that empowered energy consumers, including the promotion of renewable energy and demand response programs. His perspective provides insight into the evolution of the U.S. energy landscape and the growing role of consumers in shaping the industry's future.

The details

As FERC Chair from 2006 to 2013, Wellinghoff oversaw the implementation of landmark policies that aimed to give consumers more control over their energy use and costs. This included supporting the growth of rooftop solar, energy efficiency initiatives, and demand response programs that allow consumers to be compensated for reducing electricity usage during peak periods.

  • Wellinghoff served as FERC Chair from 2006 to 2013.
  • He is a headlining speaker at the EMPOWER 2026 Conference in Boulder, Colorado.

The players

Jon Wellinghoff

The former Chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and current executive at Voltus, a company that helps commercial and industrial energy users participate in demand response programs.

FERC

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, an independent agency that regulates the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas, and oil in the United States.

Voltus

A company that helps commercial and industrial energy users participate in demand response programs, which allow them to be compensated for reducing electricity usage during peak periods.

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What they’re saying

“As FERC Chair, my focus was always on empowering consumers and giving them more control over their energy use and costs.”

— Jon Wellinghoff, Former FERC Chair (rtoinsider.com)

The takeaway

Wellinghoff's career trajectory highlights the growing importance of consumer-centric energy policies and the role of innovative companies in enabling consumers to actively participate in the energy transition.