The New York Power Authority's (NYPA) board of trustees has elected Richard M. Kessel to serve as president and CEO.
‘Richard Kessel has extensive experience in both the energy industry and in consumer advocacy, and has the vision and leadership essential to advancing the Power Authority's mission of providing clean, economical and reliable energy,’ says Michael J. Townsend, NYPA's acting chairman. ‘I am confident that Mr. Kessel will lead NYPA in achieving its critical goals in advancing renewable energy, addressing New Yorkers' energy needs through aggressive energy efficiency initiatives and partnering with other state officials to use its resources for job creation and retention throughout the state.’
Kessel served as CEO of the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) from 1997 to 2006, and chairman of the LIPA board of trustees from 1989 to 1995.
Kessel successfully negotiated LIPA's acquisition of Long Island Lighting Co., which contributed to an immediate reduction in utility rates on Long Island. He also received regional and national recognition for LIPA's commitment to the next generation of clean energy technologies such as fuel cells and wind power.
Kessel received a bachelor's degree from New York University and a master's degree from Columbia University. He will join the Power Authority Oct. 14.
SOURCE: New York Power Authority
