Elham Akhavan is a Senior Research Analyst on the Grid Edge team, responsible for microgrid and behind-the-meter generation research in North America. Her research spans the technological, financial, regulatory, and policy dimensions of DER development, providing actionable insights for investors and developers. Prior to Wood Mackenzie Elham was a member of the technical staff at s2e Technologies Developments Inc., in Ontario, Canada, where she led an e-mobility and green transportation project. She also had a key role in an extensive feasibility study and the design of a smart community microgrid located in London, Ontario. Elham holds a Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, from University of Waterloo, Canada. Her dissertation focused on demand-side management through the smart operation of aggregated EV charging and vehicle-to-grid participation.