Mary L. Sprayregen, a force in the realm of energy policy, has been the global head of regulatory affairs and market development at Oracle Energy and Water since 2020, leading a team dedicated to expanding markets and shaping policies that promote utility investment in grid and technology innovation. Ms. Sprayregen’s time at the company is marked by significant achievements, including a campaign she spearheaded that led to a resolution by the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners acknowledging the crucial role of consumers in energy transition – a testament to her expertise and influence.
Prior to her current position, Ms. Sprayregen was director of regulatory affairs and market development at Oracle Utilities (Opower). Her leadership in this role was instrumental in advancing the company’s strategic objectives within the regulatory landscape. Before joining Oracle, she was director of policy and public affairs at VEIC, where she honed her skills in policy advocacy and public engagement. Her earlier title as deputy director of policy and public affairs at VEIC steadily solidified her respected reputation in energy policy.
Ms. Sprayregen’s career began with her work in federal government relations at Con Edison in Washington, D.C. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into the intricacies of legislative processes and regulatory frameworks. Further, her tenure as a senior legislative assistant and legislative assistant in the office of U.S. Congressman Peter Welch allowed her to develop a keen understanding of governmental operations. Additionally, she was a business liaison for Congressman Welch, cultivating relationships with key stakeholders. Earlier in her career, Ms. Sprayregen was director of government affairs at the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce, advocating for local businesses, as well as an English instructor at The New York School in Rome. These diverse experiences have contributed to her comprehensive understanding of domestic and international markets.
Ms. Sprayregen’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and law with minors in anthropology and French from Skidmore College. She also studied abroad through Kent State University’s International Studies. Her education laid a strong foundation for her career, equipping her early with critical analytical skills and a global perspective. Moreover, she holds a TEFL certification from Interlingue.
Parallel to her professional achievements, Ms. Sprayregen is active with national industry-related organizations. She has served on the board of directors for Cynosure and the National Energy and Utility Affordability Coalition since 2016. Also, her membership on Governor Phil Scott’s Climate Action Commission from 2017 to 2018 highlights her commitment to addressing climate change at the state level.
In recognition of her contributions, Ms. Sprayregen has received numerous accolades, including being named one of Vermont’s Women To Watch in 2024 and receiving the Champion of Small Business Award from the Small Business Technology Council in 2011. Her civic involvement includes serving as a board member for the Alliance to Save Energy since 2023 and participating as a policy council member for Advanced Energy Economy since 2020. She has also volunteered with Hands to Honduras from 2009 to 2010 and served as a commissioner for Burlington International Airport from 2004 to 2006.
Looking ahead, Ms. Sprayregen aims to deepen her influence within the energy transition sector by expanding her team at Oracle Energy and Water while continuing to engage with community initiatives through volunteering. She attributes her professional and personal success to good fortune and to individuals who have supported her throughout her career, allowing her to build lasting connections that have propelled her forward in the industry.