RI Gov. Raimondo appoints three to leadership roles on state energy team

Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo appointed three people to serve in leadership positions on her state energy team.

The appointees are Nicholas Ucci, who will serve as state energy commissioner; Linda George, who was named administrator of the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC); and Ronald Gerwatowski, who was named chair of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

“As we strive to make Rhode Island’s energy system cleaner, more affordable, and more reliable, I am thrilled to announce a new energy leadership team that will help carry out our vision for the new decade,” Raimondo said. “Nick, Linda, and Ron have all proven themselves capable leaders with decades of experience designing and implementing clean energy policy. I look forward to having them on board as we work to build Rhode Island’s clean energy future.”

Ucci currently works as the deputy commissioner of the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) – a position he has held since 2013. He was instrumental in driving the expansion of offshore wind in Rhode Island through the Revolution Wind project.

“I am honored that Governor Raimondo has placed her confidence in me,” Ucci said. “As a native Rhode Islander, I value the interconnectedness of our local communities – its residents, businesses, and governments – and shared stake in a vibrant economy and sustainable environment. Our energy system is foundational to all of it. Recent experience – including the 400 MW Revolution Wind Farm and nation-leading energy efficiency programs – demonstrates that the Ocean State can secure cost-effective, affordable energy solutions and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while spurring local investment and job growth.”

George has been employed as interim DPUC administrator since the fall of 2019. Before that, she was senior legal counsel for the PUC.

“Governor Raimondo has outlined a clear, bold vision for Rhode Island’s clean energy future, and I’m honored to be nominated to this position,” George said. “I look forward to helping lead the DPUC and working with the OER, PUC, and businesses and families across Rhode Island to continue exploring ways to support energy affordability and reliability while modernizing our grid and fostering a more sustainable energy system.”

Gerwatowski has served as senior regulatory advisor for the DPUC since January 2018. Previously, he was the assistant secretary for energy in the office of Energy and Environmental Affairs in Massachusetts.

“The Public Utilities Commission plays a vital role in regulating state utilities and ensuring they are accountable for the services they provide,” Gerwatowski said. “As important, the PUC can also help foster affordable and reliable pathways that enable consumers, utilities, and other stakeholders to advance modern solutions delivering vital services at lower costs.”