Gov. Lamont Announces Departure Of DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes, Names Acting Successor

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes will leave her position in July after nearly 14 years in state government, Gov. Ned Lamont announced Friday. Upon her departure, DEEP Deputy Commissioner Emma Cimino will serve as acting commissioner.

Dykes has led DEEP since January 2019. She was nominated by Lamont at the start of his first term and was confirmed for a second term in 2023. Before becoming commissioner, she served as chair of the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority from 2016 to 2019 and as DEEP's deputy commissioner for energy from 2012 to 2016.

"The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s mission is more important than ever," Lamont said in a statement. "For many years, Katie has been a trusted advisor and an innovative, effective leader for DEEP, working tirelessly to secure clean, affordable energy, tackle our toughest pollution challenges, modernize environmental regulation, and invest in our parks and natural resources, all while building a capable team that will carry the department’s mission forward. Deputy Commissioner Cimino is a skilled, experienced leader who knows DEEP well, and I appreciate her willingness to serve in this leadership position."

During Dykes' tenure, the state negotiated a contract to keep the Millstone nuclear power station operating, advanced the Revolution Wind offshore wind project, and secured federal funding for programs related to heat pumps, electric school buses, electric vehicle charging, solar energy, energy efficiency and broadband, according to the governor's office.

The agency also oversaw investments in state parks and recreational facilities, expanded staffing at state parks, launched the CTParks.com website and introduced programs intended to improve public access to outdoor recreation, according to the governor.

The administration said DEEP reduced permit backlogs, established timelines for permit reviews and implemented changes to environmental cleanup regulations during Dykes' tenure. The agency also expanded environmental monitoring programs, protected open space and launched initiatives focused on climate resilience and environmental justice.

"It has been the honor of my professional life to serve the people of Connecticut for nearly fourteen years, including more than seven years as DEEP commissioner," Dykes said. "I am incredibly proud of DEEP’s extraordinary staff and the many great things we have accomplished for the people and the environment of Connecticut. I feel confident that this is the right moment for a transition, both for DEEP and for me personally—an opportunity for new leadership to guide the agency forward, and for me to explore new professional opportunities. I am so grateful to Governor Lamont for entrusting me with the opportunity to serve."

Cimino has overseen DEEP's Environmental Quality Branch since 2023, including air management, water protection, land reuse and materials management programs. Before joining DEEP, she worked in the office of U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy on energy, environmental and infrastructure issues. She also previously worked for the National Governors Association and served in Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's administration.

"I am honored by Governor Lamont’s confidence in me and grateful for the opportunity to serve as acting commissioner of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection," Cimino said. "Since I came to DEEP two and a half years ago, I’ve been lucky to work alongside DEEP’s talented and dedicated staff as they work every day to protect Connecticut’s environment, ensure a reliable and affordable energy future, conserve our natural resources, and expand access to the outdoors for all residents. I look forward to building on Commissioner Dykes’ legacy, furthering DEEP’s mission to protect public health and the environment, and support municipalities, businesses, community organizations, and residents across the state."