Cape Light Compact Announces New Chief Administrative Officer

Margaret Song to take over leadership from retiring Maggie Downey after 29 years

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Cape Light Compact, a South Yarmouth-based organization that provides energy services for Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard communities, has announced that Margaret Song will become its next chief administrative officer starting in late March. Song will be taking over from Maggie Downey, who is retiring after 29 years of leading the company as its first and only administrator.

Why it matters

Cape Light Compact is an important organization that implements energy-efficiency programs, reduces energy costs for residents and businesses, and advocates on behalf of consumers on energy-related issues statewide. The transition in leadership comes at a critical time as the energy landscape continues to evolve, and Song's 20-plus years of experience at the organization will be crucial in guiding it into the future.

The details

Margaret Song has worked at Cape Light Compact since 2003, serving in various management positions including as residential program manager and commercial and industrial program manager. She was selected for the chief administrative officer role after a nationwide search conducted by the company's governing board, which reviewed 25 applications and conducted six first-round interviews before choosing Song and two other finalists.

  • Cape Light Compact announced the leadership change on February 18, 2026.
  • Margaret Song will take over as chief administrative officer in late March 2026.

The players

Margaret Song

The next chief administrative officer of Cape Light Compact, taking over from the retiring Maggie Downey. Song has worked at the organization for over 20 years in various management roles.

Maggie Downey

The current and first-ever chief administrative officer of Cape Light Compact, who is retiring after 29 years of leading the organization.

Cape Light Compact

A South Yarmouth-based organization that provides various energy services for Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard communities, including implementing energy-efficiency programs, reducing energy costs, and advocating on behalf of consumers on energy-related issues statewide.

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What they’re saying

“I have worked with Margaret since she started at the Compact over 20 years ago. I can step away knowing that the organization is in good hands.”

— Maggie Downey, Retiring chief administrative officer (Cape Light Compact press release)

“The board considered Margaret the best match to Cape Light Compact's needs, as evidenced by her unanimous selection by the board.”

— Colin Odell, Chair of the screening committee (Cape Light Compact press release)

“She is well-suited to lead the Compact into its next decades of advocacy and energy efficiency for our residents and businesses, and to help adapt to future changes in the energy landscape for our region.”

— David Anthony, Chair of Cape Light Compact's governing board (Cape Light Compact press release)

What’s next

Margaret Song will officially take over as Cape Light Compact's new chief administrative officer in late March 2026.

The takeaway

The transition in leadership at Cape Light Compact comes at a critical time as the energy landscape continues to evolve. Margaret Song's 20-plus years of experience at the organization will be crucial in guiding it into the future and ensuring it can continue to effectively implement energy-efficiency programs, reduce energy costs, and advocate for consumers in the region.