August 18, 2026. Governor Kathy Hochul announced her appointment of Audrey Zibelman as Chair of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Board of Directors. Ms. Zibelman’s appointment was confirmed by the New York State Senate on June 4, 2026.
“I am pleased to appoint Audrey Zibelman, a world-renowned energy expert, as NYSERDA Board Chair, a selection that will continue the State’s strong leadership in the clean energy transition,” said Governor Hochul. “Audrey’s familiarity with New York’s energy system, its policies, and her previous contributions as chair of the New York State Public Service Commission, make her the ideal person to provide the guidance we need to continue to pursue an all-of-the-above energy approach that serves all New Yorkers.”
NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Audrey Zibelman’s appointment as NYSERDA’s Board Chair signals a new chapter of meaningful impact for NYSERDA. As an internationally recognized energy leader, Audrey brings notable strategic leadership and industry acumen, which will be foundational to reinforcing NYSERDA’s commitment to advancing New York’s energy transition. I thank Charles Bell for his guidance as NYSERDA’s Acting Board Chair during this transitional period and look forward to his continued partnership as Vice Chair.”
Ms. Zibelman has over 35 years of legal, regulatory, operations, government and governance leadership in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Australia. She served as the Managing Director and CEO of the Australian Energy Market Operator, Chair of the New York State Public Service Commission, Executive Vice President of PJM, Founder and CEO of Viridity Energy and executive at Xcel Energy. Her most recent operating role was as a Vice President and Advisor to X, formerly known as Google’s Moonshot Factory.
NYSERDA Board Chair Audrey Zibelman said, “I thank Governor Hochul for the opportunity to chair NYSERDA’s board during such a pivotal time in the State’s clean energy transition. This opportunity complements my passion in finding ways to use government innovation to accelerate the energy transition and bring real benefits to consumers, communities, and the overall economy. Through my experiences in New York and in other countries, I have witnessed how government leadership can utilize technologies to not only support the energy transition, but ensure it is faster, fairer, and more affordable while driving economic growth that benefits everyone.”