New Administrator named for BPA

Associated Press

The U.S. Energy Department named a new administrator Monday to run the Bonneville Power Administration after a hiring scandal rocked the federal utility that sells and transmits much of the Northwest’s cheap and abundant hydroelectric power.

Elliot Mainzer has worked in various management jobs at BPA since 2002, including deputy administrator. He was named acting administrator last July upon the suspension of his predecessor, Bill Drummond.

“Elliot Mainzer has the proven experience to lead BPA during this important time and I look forward to working with him to serve BPA’s customers, constituents and employees in the months and years to come,” Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz said in a statement.

Mainzer said in a statement that he was honored and excited to lead BPA “during this challenging and historic time for the region.” Read more