Will Purser, a Clallam County PUD No. 1 commissioner, has been named to the 11-member executive board of directors for Energy Northwest, a joint operating agency comprised of 28 public power utilities from across Washington.

An Energy Northwest board member since 2008, Purser will serve a four-year term on the body responsible for setting policy and overseeing the operations of the organization. The new term begins June 17.

Energy Northwest develops, owns and operates a diverse mix of electricity generating resources - including hydroelectric, solar and wind generation projects, and the Northwest's only nuclear power plant - to supply 10 percent to 15 percent of the Northwest's electricity.

Its member utilities serve more than 1.5 million customers. Clallam County PUD No. 1 is one of 23 public utility district members.

The PUD's participation in projects like the proposed Radar Ridge wind generation project in Pacific County and the Packwood Lake hydroelectric project in Lewis County is managed through its Energy Northwest membership.

A Clallam County PUD No. 1 commissioner since 2001, Purser's background includes 28 years of business and engineering experience in the energy industry.

It includes national and international siting and construction of power generation facilities, power sales, and service as an intervener before state public utility commissions during electric utility rate cases.

Purser has experience in water treatment and waste disposal regulations and technologies. As a manager of health, safety and environmental processes, he has worked with government agencies and public organizations to maximize performance in those areas.

Energy Northwest's annual budget exceeds $1 billion.