APS Appoints Heflin to Lead Operations at Palo Verde Generating Station

Rhea-AI Summary

Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) has appointed Adam Heflin as the new Executive Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer (CNO) at the Palo Verde Generating Station, effective June 6. Heflin succeeds Maria Lacal, who is retiring after a 41-year career. Heflin brings extensive nuclear experience from previous roles, including CEO at Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation. APS serves over 1.3 million customers and aims for 100% clean energy by 2050, with Palo Verde being the largest carbon-free electricity producer in the U.S.

Positive

• Adam Heflin has extensive nuclear experience which can enhance operational performance.
• The leadership transition may bring fresh perspectives and strengthened leadership at APS.

Negative

• Concerns about potential continuity and experience gaps following the leadership change.

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) announced today that Adam Heflin has been named Executive Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer (CNO) at the Palo Verde Generating Station, effective June 6. Heflin succeeds Maria Lacal, who recently announced her intent to retire after a distinguished 41-year career in the commercial nuclear industry.

Heflin previously served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and CNO of the Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation in Kansas until his retirement in 2019. Prior to that, he was the CNO at Ameren’s Callaway Energy Center in Missouri. Heflin worked with Palo Verde this year as part of its Offsite Safety Review Committee and has served on the board of the STARS Alliance, a collaborative alliance of four western U.S. utilities who operate nuclear generating stations.

“Adam was selected to be our next CNO in large part because of his demonstrated ability to achieve and maintain excellent operational and financial performance at nuclear plants similar to Palo Verde,” said APS Chairman and CEO Jeff Guldner. “I’m confident that he will continue the tradition of excellence we’ve re-established at Palo Verde, and I’m excited for him to bring his energy and expertise to our leadership team.”

Heflin began his nuclear career in the United States Navy, followed by positions at Entergy’s Arkansas Nuclear One. Heflin holds a B.S. in Mechanical and General Engineering from Arkansas Tech University and has previously served on the boards of both the Nuclear Energy Institute and the Institute for Nuclear Power Operations.

Lacal will remain with APS through August to complete a thorough transition with Heflin and fulfill several industry commitments. Until then, she will serve as Executive Vice President and Advisor to the CEO.

APS serves more than 1.3 million homes and businesses in 11 of Arizona’s 15 counties, and is a leader in delivering affordable, clean and reliable energy in the Southwest. The company is committed to serving customers with 100% clean power by 2050. As owner and operator of Palo Verde Generating Station, the nation’s largest producer of carbon-free electricity, and with one of the country’s most substantial renewable energy portfolios, APS’s current energy mix is 50% clean. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW).

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220524005517/en/

Media Contact: Mike Philipsen (480) 647-7762

Analyst Contact: Amanda Ho (602) 250-3334

Website: aps.com/newsroom

Source: Arizona Public Service Co.

FAQ

Who is the new Chief Nuclear Officer at PNW?

Adam Heflin has been appointed as the new Chief Nuclear Officer at Arizona Public Service Co. (PNW).

When does Adam Heflin start his role as CNO?

Adam Heflin will begin his role as Chief Nuclear Officer effective June 6.

What position did Maria Lacal hold before retiring?

Maria Lacal was the Executive Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer before her retirement.

What are the implications of the CNO change for Arizona Public Service Co.?

The change in leadership may impact operational efficiency and strategic direction at APS.

What is the significance of Palo Verde Generating Station?

Palo Verde is the largest producer of carbon-free electricity in the U.S., playing a crucial role in APS's energy strategy.