Joe Nolan, a wind-energy advocate for Eversource, has been named the company’s new president and CEO in a leadership shuffle.
He steps in for Jim Judge, who will become chairman of the board for Eversource Energy (NYSE: ES). The stock was down slightly at $87.60 Wednesday and the new roles kick in May 5.
Eversource, based in Hartford, Conn., provides electric, natural gas, and water service to 4.3 million customers in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
“Joe has been a crucial contributor to Eversource’s record of strong performance and industry leadership, and to the development of our clean energy vision and future strategy,” Judge said in a release.
Nolan said part of his focus will be on clean energy and cutting carbon emissions.
“This is a pivotal moment for our company and our industry,” Nolan added. “We’re working to serve as a regional catalyst for clean energy and reduction of carbon emissions.”
He added he’s “honored” to lead the company’s 9,300 employees.
The switch comes as a regional push in on to reduce carbon emissions.
The Transportation Climate Initiative championed by Gov. Charlie Baker aims to reduce motor vehicle pollution by at least 26% and generate over $1.8 billion in Massachusetts by 2032.
It will up the price of gas by 5 to 7 cents per gallon, according to state estimates. Eight other states are still considering the deal.