An Interview with SMI Advisor Scott Lindsay
May 9th, 2010
Scott Lindsay has been working with SMI and Helios since 2003, focusing on clients in the energy sector. He brings nearly two decades of expertise in government affairs, as well as a profound knowledge of strategic marketing and policy advocacy. Scott now lives in the Pacific Northwest and provides instrumental representation for our clients in the region; he recently took some time to discuss his background and experience in government relations.
What initially brought you to DC from the Pacific Northwest?
I worked in the district office of U.S. Rep. Jennifer Dunn and moved to DC after a legislative assistant position opened up in her Capitol Hill office.
What inspired you to start the Rural Broadband Coalition and the Ocean Renewable Energy Coalition?
In both instances there was an industry need for representation that was not being met. The focus was to help these emerging industries gain recognition and support from Congress and the Administration. Damian Kunko and I felt the benefits of organized national coalitions would help establish these groups as a welcome resource to industry and government.
How has the clean and renewable energy industry changed since you began working in the sector?
Initially, the clean and renewable energy was a feel good investment that was a choice of a select few willing to pay more for green power. Now, the tide has changed and mandates, incentives and funding are more accurately reflecting the attitudes of the populous for a more environmentally conscious tomorrow. Clearly this is reflected in the discussions by Congress.
How do you assist SMI clients now that you are based back on the West Coast?
With more Members of Congress requiring that appropriations requests originate in their state, I'm helping to frame and present these requests in a positive way. I'm also working to identify, cultivate and secure partnerships between local utilities and SMI clients who want to test, deploy and sell their technologies in the West.
How does your advocacy training experience support SMI's clients as they work with their Members of Congress?
With the advocacy training experience, it helps to mentor and guide new clients who are unfamiliar with Congress. There are definitely do's and don'ts and we help prepare folks to present themselves in a manner that, we feel, has the highest probability of receiving favorable consideration from those we seek engage with in Congress.
As you also consult for the Northwest Public Power Association (NWPPA), how has that experience helped with the rest of your clients?
Working with a large regional trade association in the West has helped me take a regional and national view of policy and marketing work -- our clients appreciate this perspective. It also has the added benefit of connecting me with a large network of good people in the utility industry. These relationships serve to help open doors and create opportunities for mutually beneficial relationships that aid all parties involved.
How has your scope of work been altered since the new Congressional earmark changes this year?
I'm more of an energy and technology policy advisor to SMI/Helios so the earmark changes only had a nominal impact on my activities. I'm currently working with the Helios team to expand our policy work. This will help existing clients by providing a policy foundation for appropriations work... the more the policy environment in Congress mirrors appropriation priorities the better served our clients will be.