Empire State Today

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the appointment of Uchenna Bright and Denise Sheehan as commissioners of the New York State Public Service Commission. The State Senate has confirmed the nominations, paving the way for Bright and Sheehan to take on key roles in ensuring a safe, reliable, and affordable energy grid for all New Yorkers.

Governor Hochul expressed her confidence in the new appointees, stating, “In their new positions, Uchenna Bright and Denise Sheehan will play a key role in ensuring a safe, reliable and affordable energy grid for all New Yorkers.” She emphasized the unique expertise that both Commissioners bring to the PSC, particularly at this crucial juncture for New York’s energy future.

Uchenna Bright, a seasoned clean energy professional, is praised for her over 20 years of experience in organizing people, projects, and ideas. With a background at the Natural Resources Defense Council and Environmental Entrepreneurs, she has a track record of building consensus and developing strategies to address energy, environmental, economic, and social issues. Bright's focus on strategic energy planning for economic and community development aligns with the state's clean energy goals.

Denise Sheehan, with more than 35 years of management experience in government and non-profit sectors, brings a wealth of knowledge to the Commission. Her previous roles at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium demonstrate her commitment to advancing clean energy initiatives.

Public Service Commission Chair Rory M. Christian welcomed Bright and Sheehan, highlighting their expertise as valuable assets in meeting the clean energy requirements outlined by the Climate Act. He emphasized the importance of ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable utility services, which are core responsibilities of the PSC.

Uchenna Bright expressed her commitment to upholding the Commission's responsibilities, stating, “I look forward to serving New Yorkers in this new role at the PSC.” Denise Sheehan also conveyed her honor at being selected for the position, expressing her eagerness to collaborate with fellow Commissioners in building a clean and affordable energy system.

The Public Service Commission, responsible for regulating the state's utilities, including electric, gas, steam, telecommunications, cable, and private water services, plays a critical role in ensuring the provision of safe and reliable utility services at fair rates. With the addition of Bright and Sheehan, the Commission is poised to navigate New York's energy landscape with a focus on sustainability and affordability.