FortisTCI President & CEO Ruth Forbes was elected to the Caribbean Electric Utilities Services Corporation (CARILEC) Board of Directors at the 33rd Annual General Meeting held virtually on September 28.
Mrs. Forbes is one of three new directors who will serve for a three-year term from 2021 to 2024. The new Board also consists of two newly elected independent power producer (IPP) representatives, two re-elected Associate Member Directors and 10 continuing Directors.
Together, the newly elected CARILEC Board represents utility leaders and long-time business professionals closely related to the industry who bring invaluable experience and electric utility knowledge to help CARILEC achieve its strategic vision. This includes positioning CARILEC as the leading partner and hub for energy solutions in the Caribbean that serves member countries.
As a newly elected Director, Forbes brings over 15 years of experience in the energy sector and is one of only a few female utility leaders in the region. Mrs. Forbes was appointed President and CEO of FortisTCI in August 2020 and has served as Senior Vice President of Corporate Services, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Company Secretary, carrying responsibility for several critical business functions.
She also currently serves as a member of the Public Accounts Committee and a Director on the Boards of Fortis Inc. subsidiaries FortisOntario and Belize Electricity Limited (BEL).
In speaking about her appointment, Forbes said, “The work that CARILEC does and the support that it provides the Caribbean as a leading association of electric energy solutions provider is critical. It is particularly significant at this time when the industry faces changing business models, rapid grid modernization, and a complete reshaping of the sector driven by climate change.”
She continued, “I am pleased to accept this appointment, and I look forward to this opportunity to serve with some of the best utility and sector leaders in the region to help propel the energy industry forward in ways that are beneficial for everyone.
“I know that our shared experiences and knowledge will make a difference in how the region responds to the changing energy landscape, and I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute alongside my peers.”
CARILEC is an association of electric energy solutions providers and other stakeholders operating in the electricity industry in the Caribbean, Central and South Americas, and globally.
“CARILEC plays a leading role in advocacy, growth, and sustainability and offers ongoing training and technical support for 33 utility members and 77 IPP, associate, and affiliate members.