SEPA Announces 2023 Board Member Leadership Slate

SEPA is pleased to announce its 2023 Board of Directors leadership slate of accomplished executive industry leaders.

Washington, D.C. — The Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) is a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the U.S. electric power industry and stakeholders to accelerate the transformation to a carbon-free energy system by facilitating collaboration, developing innovative strategies, and providing actionable solutions.

SEPA is pleased to announce its 2023 Board of Directors leadership slate of accomplished executive industry leaders. These individuals continue to bring a wealth of experience and expertise that further strengthens SEPA’s mission and drives the organization forward.

Chair: Paul Lau | CEO & GM, Sacramento Municipal Utility District

Paul Lau, CEO and General Manager of the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), has been elected as the Chair of SEPA’s board of directors. With over 40 years of experience in the utility industry, Lau has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing clean energy initiatives and promoting sustainability. As Chair, Lau will play a vital role in guiding SEPA’s strategic vision and ensuring the organization’s continued success. “I am thrilled and honored to assume the role of Board chair at SEPA, an organization that stands at the forefront of the clean energy transformation. The opportunity to lead such a dynamic and impactful community fills me with excitement, and the dedication and passion of SEPA’s members and stakeholders inspire me every day. Together, we will continue our work to drive the industry towards a carbon-free energy future. I am grateful for Alice Jackson’s leadership and look forward to continuing my SEPA journey with enthusiasm and commitment,” says Lau.

Secretary: Peter Muhoro | Chief Strategy, Technology, & Innovation Officer, Rappahannock Electric Co-op

Peter Muhoro, Chief Strategy, Technology, and Innovation Officer at Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC), has been re-appointed as SEPA’s Secretary. Muhoro’s extensive background in technology and innovation will be invaluable in driving SEPA’s efforts to foster the adoption of carbon-free technologies and the critical accompanying grid infrastructure. As Secretary, Muhoro will oversee critical administrative functions and contribute to SEPA’s overall governance.

Treasurer: Seth Frader-Thompson | President & Co-Founder, EnergyHub

With his deep understanding of energy markets and expertise in demand response and distributed energy resource management, Frader-Thompson provides valuable insights and guidance in SEPA’s financial matters. As Treasurer, he ensures the organization’s fiscal integrity and supports the strategic allocation of resources.

Nominating Committee Chair: Hannah Bascom | Chief Market Innovation Officer, Uplight

Bascom’s extensive knowledge of market dynamics and her innovative mindset will help drive SEPA’s initiatives in promoting market transformation and advancing clean energy solutions. In her role as Nominating Committee Chair, Bascom leads the identification and selection of future board members, ensuring a diverse and inclusive representation.

Executive Committee: Alice Jackson | SVP, System Strategy & Chief Planning Officer, Xcel Energy (immediate past Board chair)

Alice Jackson, Senior Vice President of System Strategy and Chief Planning Officer at Xcel Energy, will continue on as part of SEPA’s Executive Committee. With her extensive experience in utility strategy and planning, Jackson provides valuable guidance to SEPA’s overall direction and initiatives. Her past role as the Chair of SEPA’s board further enhances her ability to contribute to the organization’s continued growth and success. “It has been an honor serving as Chair of the Smart Electric Power Alliance for the past two years. It is an outstanding organization, and I’m thrilled with the talented new board members and leadership team. They will continue SEPA’s mission to accelerate the electric power industry’s transformation to a modern energy future through education, research, standards, and collaboration,” said Jackson.

Executive Committee: Linda Ferrone | Chief Customer & Marketing Officer, Orlando Utilities Commission

Ferrone’s expertise in customer engagement and marketing plays a pivotal role in enhancing SEPA’s efforts to promote consumer-centric actionable energy solutions. Her invaluable insights will contribute to SEPA’s mission of driving clean energy innovation and empowering end-users.

New Board Member: Dr. Marion Gold | Senior Advisor, National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) and President, Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnership (NEEP)

Dr. Marion Gold joins SEPA’s board of directors as a distinguished industry leader with a wealth of experience in clean energy and power sector transformation. As a Senior Advisor with the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), Dr. Gold supports their electricity program, focusing on advancing clean energy policies and initiatives. She also serves as the President of the Board of the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnership (NEEP), where she leads collaborative efforts to promote energy efficiency in the Northeast region. From Dr. Gold: “SEPA’s leadership in the transformation to a carbon-free electricity system is critically important to the future of our economy, our society and our environment. I look forward to working with the SEPA team and the Board to support efforts to accelerate a strategic and equitable transformation.” With her expertise and insights, Dr. Gold will contribute to SEPA’s mission of driving the clean energy transition and fostering collaboration across the industry.

“We are grateful for the time and dedication of our esteemed Board and both the executives who have stepped into new leadership roles and those continuing their leadership service to SEPA. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Marion Gold to SEPA’s board of directors,” said Sheri Givens, President and CEO of SEPA. “Her extensive energy experience coupled with her regulatory background will greatly enhance our ability to drive innovation and facilitate the integration of clean energy resources.”

About SEPA

The Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping utilities and technology providers integrate clean energy resources and advance the electric power industry. Through collaboration, research, standards development, and education, SEPA offers members a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving industry.