Governor Appoints Veteran Utility Expert to North Carolina Utilities Commission

John W. Gajda, P.E. brings over 36 years of experience in the state's electric utility sector

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Governor Josh Stein has appointed John W. Gajda, P.E. to serve on the North Carolina Utilities Commission. Gajda is a seasoned professional with decades of experience across the state's electric utility industry, including roles in transmission and distribution planning, generator interconnections, regulatory affairs, energy policy, and engineering design.

Why it matters

The North Carolina Utilities Commission plays a critical role in overseeing the state's electric, natural gas, water, and telecommunications utilities, ensuring reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for residents and businesses. Gajda's appointment brings a wealth of technical expertise and industry knowledge to the commission at a time of significant change in the state's energy landscape.

The details

Gajda is joining the Utilities Commission with 36 years of utility experience, having previously worked for the North Carolina Utilities Commission and Public Staff, electric cooperatives, Duke Energy, Strata Clean Energy, and as a consultant. He has been instrumental in designing many of the renewable energy generation interconnections in North Carolina from 2005 to 2019. Gajda currently serves as a Professor of Practice at North Carolina State University, teaching power systems engineering courses.

  • Governor Stein appointed John W. Gajda, P.E. to the North Carolina Utilities Commission on Friday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Governor Josh Stein

The current Governor of North Carolina, who appointed John W. Gajda to the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

John W. Gajda, P.E.

A veteran utility professional with over 36 years of experience in North Carolina's electric utility sector, who has been appointed to serve on the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

North Carolina Utilities Commission

The state agency responsible for overseeing electric, natural gas, water, and telecommunications utilities in North Carolina, ensuring reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for residents and businesses.

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What they’re saying

“John Gajda brings decades of experience across every corner of North Carolina's electric utility sector. He understands the technical, regulatory, and operational sides of this work, and he has earned the respect of stakeholders across the industry. I'm confident John will serve on the Utilities Commission with integrity, steady judgment, and a focus on delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for the people of North Carolina.”

— Governor Josh Stein (jocoreport.com)

The takeaway

Gajda's appointment to the North Carolina Utilities Commission brings a seasoned professional with deep expertise in the state's electric utility industry, which will be crucial as the commission navigates the evolving energy landscape and works to ensure reliable, affordable, and sustainable power for all North Carolinians.