How can energy providers navigate complex regulations to strengthen the power grid?

Dan Laubenthal’s passion for meteorology, weather systems and environmental science led him to a career in permitting and siting. Today he uses his passion to benefit energy clients as he works across a wide variety of transmission, renewable energy and utility operations projects designed to bolster the future of the nation’s power grid.

As Jacobs’ Transmission and Distribution Market Lead, Dan helps clients understand and plan for the complexities of siting facilities, permitting, and navigating regulatory and environmental compliance.

Dan joined Jacobs after working for one of the country’s largest investor-owned utilities, which also owns the largest transmission grid in North America. His utility experience brings a deep understanding of the challenges our clients face — from regulatory uncertainty and environmental impacts to stakeholder engagement and cost management. He’s built a broad network across the transmission and distribution industry, and his background in siting and permitting helps him anticipate challenges early, align teams and demonstrate how Jacobs delivers resilient energy infrastructure.

Dan’s collaborative, multidisciplinary approach — which integrates environmental, engineering and stakeholder groups — is crucial for the complex and critical nature of the projects he supports. Building energy infrastructure, like transmission lines, substations and distribution networks, can span years from concept to completion so integrating teams at the forefront helps reduce risk and increase efficiency.

Dan knows that transmission and distribution are central to the future of energy and works to provide support for energy companies building vital infrastructure to help move and balance energy supply. His work ultimately connects people, powers communities and strengthens the grid.

Away from work, Dan recharges by spending time with his family and enjoys snowboarding, fishing, and serving as president of his neighborhood homeowners’ association — a role that draws on the same skills of listening, problem-solving and bringing people together he practices at Jacobs.