NCSL - National Conference of State Legislatures

02/09/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/09/2026 10:33

The Legislative Energy Horizon Institute | LEHI

Related Topic: Energy

The Legislative Energy Horizon Institute is the preeminent policy program designed to educate state legislators and policymakers about the North American energy infrastructure and delivery system. Since its inception in 2009, LEHI's comprehensive curriculum has helped policymakers understand how energy systems and infrastructure work, how energy infrastructure is built and financed and how emerging regulatory and market factors impact energy infrastructure.

Legislators who are selected for LEHI commit to two in-depth, three-and-a-half-day sessions taking place in the summer and fall. Through the institute, legislators learn how to make responsible and informed policy choices by increasing their knowledge of complex energy issues.

The National Conference of State Legislatures partners with the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER), the University of Idaho, the U.S. Department of Energy, and world-class faculty from academia, industry and government to bring together diverse viewpoints and ensure a well-rounded learning experience.

LEHI Graduates receive a Certificate in Energy Policy Planning through the University of Idaho.

Over 400 legislators and policymakers have graduated from the course over the past decade, and participants continue to give LEHI positive feedback, rating it as one of the best legislative policy education programs in North America. Additional details about the program can be found on PNWER's LEHI webpage.

If accepted, stipends are available for NCSL members to cover tuition, travel and lodging costs to attend LEHI. Note: Attendance for NCSL members is contingent upon approval from your state legislative leadership.

Key LEHI Contacts
Organization Name Title Email Phone
National Conference of State Legislatures Austin Igleheart Project Manager [email protected] 303-856-1509
Pacific NorthWest Economic Region Nate Weigel Program Manager [email protected] 206-443-7723
Pacific NorthWest Economic Region Matt Morrison Executive Director [email protected] 206-443-7723
University of Idaho Yvonne Sertich Director, Executive Education [email protected] 208-885-8880
College of Business and Economics, University of Idaho Dishonna Arnett Program Coordinator, Executive Education [email protected] 208-885-9059
National Conference of State Legislatures Alex McWard Senior Policy Specialist [email protected] 303-856-1657
National Conference of State Legislatures Bryan Law Associate Director [email protected] 303-856-1350

Founding Institute Partners and Major Sponsors

  • National Conference of State Legislatures
  • Pacific Northwest Economic Region
  • U.S. Department of Energy
  • University of Idaho
  • Pacific Northwest National Laboratories
  • Government of Canada

Additional Sponsors

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