WEC Energy Group Appoints Maria Bocanegra as President of Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas

WEC Energy Group Appoints Maria Bocanegra as President of Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas

WEC Energy Group, a prominent energy provider based in Milwaukee, announces the appointment of Maria Bocanegra as president of Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, effective January 2, 2025. This strategic move comes as the company seeks to enhance its leadership capabilities in the utility sector, particularly in Illinois, where Bocanegra will oversee operations for two utilities servicing nearly one million customers in Chicago and its northern suburbs. Her extensive background in utility regulation and government engagement positions her as a key figure in guiding the company’s strategic direction.

Bocanegra's previous role as the chief legal and government relations officer at the Port of Cleveland has equipped her with a wealth of experience relevant to the energy sector. Scott Lauber, president and CEO of WEC Energy Group, emphasizes that her impressive track record and demonstrated leadership skills are crucial for meeting the company's objectives within Illinois’s competitive utility landscape. Her tenure as a commissioner with the Illinois Commerce Commission further solidifies her qualifications, as she has firsthand experience in regulating utilities and engaging in outreach initiatives related to energy and water resources in the Chicago area.

As WEC Energy Group continues to expand its operations across Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, and Minnesota, the appointment of Bocanegra underscores the company’s commitment to strong leadership and effective governance in its utilities. With approximately 4.7 million customers and a robust asset portfolio valued at $45 billion, WEC Energy Group is recognized as a Fortune 500 company and plays a significant role in the renewable energy sector through its subsidiary, WEC Infrastructure LLC. Bocanegra’s leadership will be instrumental as the company navigates the evolving energy landscape and strives to innovate in service delivery and customer engagement.

In addition to her qualifications, Bocanegra's academic background includes a political science degree from Quincy University and a juris doctor from DePaul University College of Law. Her legal expertise and understanding of regulatory frameworks will likely prove beneficial as she leads Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas through challenges and opportunities in the utility sector.

WEC Energy Group remains committed to enhancing its service and sustainability efforts, particularly as it manages a growing fleet of renewable generation facilities across various states. The selection of Bocanegra signals a forward-looking approach to leadership in one of the most dynamic sectors of the economy.