BURRILLVILLE – Pascoag Utility District General Manager Michael Kirkwood was recognized this week by a regional trade association for electric utility companies with the organization’s distinguished service award.
The Northeast Public Power Association acknowledged Kirkwood at its annual conference, held this year from August 22 through 25 at the Westin Portland Harborview in Portland, Maine. The association represents the interests of 78 not-for-profit state and local community-owned electric utilities that collectively provide electricity to approximately 2 million New Englanders.
The award aims to recognize individuals who have gone above and beyond providing service to a NEPPA member utility.
Kirkwood, who has worked for the company since 2011, has served on the organization’s board of directors. A professional holding numerous positions in the energy field over the past four decades, Kirkwood received a master’s of science degree in business administration from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
He came to the village quasi-public utility company following a position as director of market and regulatory affairs at EquiPower Resources in Connecticut, having previously worked for companies including BG Group, National Grid, Mirant New England, NSTAR and Commonwealth Electric Company.
In Pascoag, Kirkwood serves as the chief executive, responsible for for all matters related to the operations and financial performance. The public power entity provides electric distribution service to approximately 5,000 customers and water production and distribution to over 1,000 customers.
“We’re very lucky to have him leading the PUD team,” noted a social media post from the company regarding the honor.
NEPPA holds the awards dinner each year to recognize members who have provided exceptional leadership and service.