Cheryl LaFleur Confirmed For Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

The U.S. Senate has confirmed Wellelsey resident Cheryl LaFleur to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

LaFleur is a new member of the Commission - her term ends in 2014. She has more than 20 years experience as a leader in the electric and natural gas industry. She retired in 2007 as executive vice president and acting CEO of National Grid USA, responsible for the delivery of electricity to 3.4 million customers in the Northeast.

Her previous positions at National Grid and its predecessor New England Electric System included COO, president of New England distribution and general counsel. She helped lead the company through the deregulation of energy supply, the transition to performance-based ratemaking, and several mergers. She was also responsible for leading award-winning conservation and demand response programs for customers. She practiced law in Boston earlier in her career, and has been a community and nonprofit leader.

The Senate also confirmed Philip Moeller for a second term on the commission.

"We are grateful for these Senate confirmations," said FERC Chairman Jon Wellinghoff, "Commissioner Moeller will be able to continue his important work here at FERC for a new full term, and we will be joined by Cheryl LaFleur, who brings to the Commission experience in energy policy and operations." 

"I am honored and excited to be joining the Commission at a time when our nation is facing critical energy challenges and opportunities," LaFleur said. "I would like to thank President Obama for nominating me, and Senator Reid, Chairman Bingaman, Senator Murkowski, and all the members of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for their support. I look forward to working with them, with my new FERC colleagues and with other federal and state officials from all regions of the country."