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

WEC Energy Group Welcomes New Leadership at Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas

WEC Energy Group, a prominent energy provider based in Milwaukee, appoints Maria Bocanegra as president of Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, effective January 2, 2025. This strategic move highlights the company’s commitment to enhancing its operational leadership as it continues to serve nearly 1 million customers in the Chicago area and its northern suburbs. Bocanegra, who has a rich background in utility regulation, will bring her expertise to oversee the daily operations and strategic direction of these two significant utilities, further aligning them with WEC Energy Group's broader objectives in Illinois.

Bocanegra’s previous experience as the chief legal and government relations officer at the Port of Cleveland positions her well for this new role. Her tenure at the Illinois Commerce Commission, where she regulated utilities and led outreach initiatives related to energy and water, equips her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the energy sector. Scott Lauber, president and CEO of WEC Energy Group, emphasizes Bocanegra's impressive track record and leadership qualities as essential to achieving the company’s goals, particularly in navigating the evolving regulatory landscape and community engagement in Illinois.

With WEC Energy Group serving approximately 4.7 million customers across Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, and Minnesota, the appointment of Bocanegra signifies a proactive approach to leadership within the utilities sector. The company, recognized as a Fortune 500 entity, operates several principal utilities, including We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service, and boasts significant assets and a dedicated workforce. As it continues to expand its footprint in renewable energy through WEC Infrastructure LLC, Bocanegra's leadership is poised to play a critical role in driving sustainable growth and innovative solutions in the energy landscape.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Bocanegra holds a political science degree from Quincy University and a juris doctor from DePaul University College of Law. Her educational background complements her extensive experience, equipping her with the necessary skills to address the complexities of utility management and customer service effectively. WEC Energy Group looks forward to her guidance in enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency as it continues to meet the energy needs of its diverse customer base.

As the energy sector increasingly pivots towards sustainability, Bocanegra’s leadership at Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas is expected to steer the utilities towards embracing innovative strategies and fostering community relationships essential for a resilient energy future.