Energy Trust of Oregon’s board of directors appointed Michael Colgrove as the nonprofit organization’s new executive director. Starting August 15, Colgrove will join Energy Trust after 15 years with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, NYSERDA, where he was both the director of the New York City office and director of multifamily programs. NYSERDA promotes energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources to reduce customer energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions, while accelerating economic growth.

“I’m excited to join Energy Trust and continue its record of success delivering nationally recognized programs with high return on investment for utility customers,” said Colgrove.

“Michael’s leadership experience at NYSERDA makes him a great fit for Energy Trust,” said Ken Canon, Energy Trust board vice president and chair of the executive director transition committee. “He has worked effectively with a range of stakeholders — utilities, customers, business owners, developers, and community and government leaders — to accelerate broad market adoption of clean energy solutions.”

The appointment follows a rigorous five-month national search for candidates informed by stakeholders, including the Oregon Public Utility Commission, Energy Trust’s utility partners, Energy Trust Conservation and Renewable Energy Advisory Councils, and a number of customer groups. Colgrove was selected by the Energy Trust board transition committee from a strong and diverse candidate pool consisting of energy industry leaders and innovators.

Colgrove succeeds Margie Harris, who is retiring after leading the organization since its inception in 2001. Energy Trust board and staff will focus on transition activities in preparation for Harris’ planned retirement in early September.