James Lai is a Director at the Vogel Group.

As head of the firm’s energy storage and solar practice, James Lai has spent the last seven years in Washington D.C. at the intersection of environmental and global trade policy. In his capacity as Director at Vogel Group, James has advised both growing companies and established multinationals on how to capitalize on government programs and navigate policy risk. He has been at the center of advocacy in major solar trade cases before the United States Congress, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the International Trade Commission.

Before joining Vogel Group, James Lai was the Director of Energy and Trade Policy at Lot Sixteen, an integrated government relations and communications firm, where he spearheaded the firm’s efforts in trade analysis, particularly focusing on crucial international energy trade issues. His portfolio included in-depth work on Uyghur Human Rights legislation, Nord Stream sanctions, and the complexities surrounding Section 201, 232, 301, and 307 tariffs. During his tenure, James also played a pivotal role in navigating and shaping discussions on transmission, storage, solar and wind tax credits, carbon capture, and recycling issues.

James started his career as a professional committee staffer in the United States Senate. During this time, he worked in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the office of Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), focusing on energy, utilities, water, and public lands policy. In addition, James has worked with and alongside trade associations, international nonprofits and NGOs on issues concerning environmental and global trade policy.

Originally from Seattle, James brings a deep-rooted passion for the outdoors and the environment instilled in him from a young age. He holds a BA in History and International Studies from Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA. Beyond his professional pursuits, James is an enthusiastic rower, skier, cyclist, and sailor.