Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Chairman Ron Binz announced today that he is leaving the PUC to resume his consulting practice, focusing on clean energy issues. Binz was appointed to the PUC by Gov. Bill Ritter, Jr. in January 2007. His term ended on January 10, 2011.
In a letter to Gov. John W. Hickenlooper, Binz said, “I am leaving the Commission to work with organizations that promote clean energy policies here and across the country. I plan to tell the Colorado story – about our success in moving forward on a clean energy agenda.”
“Our nation faces a huge challenge in decarbonizing its energy and transportation sectors – much bigger than the public understands,” Binz added. “I hope to contribute to the national policy discussion and help consumers prepare for the big changes ahead.”
Binz said he would remain at the Commission until his replacement is named, so that there could be a smooth transition. The governor’s office indicated that it prefers this arrangement as well.
A list of major decisions tackled by the Commission during Binz’s four years as Chairman is attached.
“Ron’s experience and depth of knowledge in regulatory matters have been extremely valuable and beneficial to the PUC,” Commissioner Jim Tarpey said. “We wish him the best of luck in all future endeavors.”
“We appreciate Ron’s tremendous service to the Commission and the state of Colorado. We’re sorry to see him go,” Commissioner Matt Baker said.
In addition to his duties as PUC Chairman, Binz serves as Chair of the Task Force on Climate Policy for NARUC, the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners. He is also the President of the Western Conference of Public Service Commissioners.
Binz was Colorado Consumer Counsel, the state’s utility consumer advocate, for 12 years from 1984 to 1995. Prior to being appointed to the Commission, Binz ran Public Policy Consulting, specializing in energy and telecommunications policy matters.
