Areas of Practice
- Electricity
- Compliance, Audits & Enforcement
- Project Development & Permitting
- Renewable Electricity Generation
- Energy Technologies
- Advanced Coal / Fossil Fuel Technologies and Carbon Capture and Storage
- Energy Efficiency
- Environment
- Appropriations & Federal Funding
- Energy Policy
- Environment & Natural Resources
Industries
Education
- J.D., University of Pittsburgh, 1983
- B.S., University of Pittsburgh, 1980
Bar and Court Admissions
- Pennsylvania
Thomas J. Russial
Senior Attorney Consultant*^
Seventh Floor
Washington DC 20007
TEL: 202.298.1800
FAX: 202.338.2416
tjr@vnf.com
Tom Russial has extensive knowledge and experience in federal contracting and financial assistance policies and procedures, intellectual property rights, federal financial incentives, private financing mechanisms, and environmental requirements. He has worked closely with senior government officials, public utilities, independent power producers, technology developers, vendors, financing institutions, investors; and other U.S. and international stakeholders. In addition to his work with the firm, Tom recently authored an educational paper, “Carbon Capture and Storage: On Your Mark! Get Set! Go?” for the United States Carbon Sequestration Council.
Professional Background
Prior to his engagement with the firm, Tom served as Chief Counsel at the U.S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), providing legal services to DOE’s Fossil Energy , Energy Efficiency, and Renewable Energy, and Electricity Programs. While at DOE, he provided legal support to NETL facilities in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Oregon, Texas and Alaska.
During his 22 year career with the DOE, Tom was active in the design and implementation of a diverse portfolio of energy programs and projects. Much of his work involved multi-million dollar, cost-shared demonstration and commercial application projects, including projects under the Clean Coal and Carbon Sequestration Programs; Vehicle Technologies, Industrial Technologies, Building Technologies Programs; and the Smart-Grid Program. Companies that worked with Tom during his time with the DOE know him as a problem solver, with diverse capabilities at his disposal.
Earlier in his career, Tom served as an attorney with the U.S. Department of Navy, working primarily on procurement matters related to the Navy’s research and development program. He also has served as an instructor of public contracts.
Government Service
Chief Counsel (and other positions), National Energy Technology Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, 1987-2009
Attorney, Naval Weapons Center, U.S. Department of Navy, 1984-1987
Professional and Civic Affiliations
- Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association