Varnum partner Laura Chappelle has been appointed to the Energy Bar Association (EBA) Midwest Chapter’s Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 term.
The EBA is a national organization of attorneys, energy professionals, and regulators that promotes excellence and integrity in the practice of energy law. Through its regional chapters, the association provides education and opportunities for collaboration on legal and regulatory issues shaping the energy industry.
Chappelle is an energy and environmental attorney with more than 25 years of experience in regulatory and policy matters at both the state and federal levels. She previously served as Chairman and Commissioner of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) and has held legal and policy advisory roles for the Michigan Governor, Speaker of the House, and both the Michigan House and Senate.
At Varnum, Chappelle represents clients before the MPSC, including independent power producers, energy marketers, manufacturers, public entities, and trade associations. She also advises on matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and in regional transmission organizations such as Organization of PJM States (OMS) and Organization of MISO States (OMS). Her recent work includes advising associations of industrial energy users and renewable generators, negotiating power purchase agreements, and representing clients in contested utility and infrastructure proceedings.
In addition to her role with the EBA, Chappelle serves on the Board of Michigan Energy Options and is active in several professional organizations related to energy law and regulation, including the State Bar of Michigan’s Administrative and Regulatory Law Section.
