For Immediate Release
June 27, 2008
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Senate Committee Confirms PUC Nominees 

HARRISBURG  – The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee recommended confirmation of  two nominees for the Public Utility Commission, according to Committee Chairman Senator Tommy Tomlinson (R-Bucks).

Tomlinson said the committee unanimously approved the nominations of Robert Powelson and Wayne E. Gardner, both of Chester County.

"Both nominees have a great deal of experience in the energy industry, which is crucial in this position," Tomlinson said. "The PUC deals with a wide range of complicated issues, from regulating utilities to protecting consumers and promoting the use of green energy."

Wayne Gardner is a development and management consultant and entrepreneur in the fields of power generation, renewable and clean energy technologies, and related areas. From April 2002 to December 2005, Gardner was an executive with Franklin Fuel Cells, Inc. He previously served in managerial and executive roles during a 22-year career with PECO Energy (Exelon Corporation), leading up to his retirement in 2002. Gardner holds a bachelor degree from Drexel University.

If confirmed by the Senate, Gardner's term on the PUC would run through April 1, 2013.

Robert Powelson has served as President/CEO of the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry since February, 1995. From 1992 to 1995, he was the Chamber's Director of Government Relations. Powelson was a staff assistant to former U.S. Rep. Curt Weldon from 1990 to 1992. He holds degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Saint Joseph's University.

If confirmed, Powelson would serve through April 1, 2009.

The two nominees must now be confirmed by the full Senate.