#None #Clean Energy #Lancaster #First Public Hydrogen #Lorraine Paskett

First Public Hydrogen Names Lorraine Paskett as COO

First Public Hydrogen (FPH2) has made a significant move in advancing its clean energy vision by appointing Lorraine Paskett as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). Paskett brings over two decades of executive leadership experience specifically in California's energy and water sectors, an area crucial to FPH2's growth and operational success.

The announcement was made on April 22, 2025, where R. Rex Parris, Chairman of FPH2, expressed pride in the latest addition to their executive team. He emphasized the importance of Paskett's prowess in public utilities and clean hydrogen strategies, calling it invaluable as the company strives to establish the nation's first public hydrogen utility. This step marks a vital point in transitioning to a sustainable energy model, aligning with California's aggressive decarbonization goals.

Jack Brouwer, a board member of FPH2, reiterated the excitement surrounding Paskett’s recruitment. He highlighted her multifaceted experience across various sectors, including municipal utilities, renewable energy, and regulatory affairs, all of which are pivotal in overcoming the current technological and policy challenges faced by the hydrogen industry.

Commenting on her new role, Paskett said, “I’m excited to join FPH2 at such a critical time for the hydrogen sector. Building a reliable public-facing hydrogen provider is foundational for accelerating and meeting California's decarbonization targets.” Her commitment to this mission underscores the focus FPH2 places on sustainable energy solutions for communities and businesses.

Before stepping into her new role at FPH2, Paskett led clean hydrogen strategy efforts along the West Coast for California’s largest hydrogen producer. Additionally, she drove commercial pathways through her advisory firm, Cambridge LCF Group. Her extensive career also includes notable positions at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, First Solar, and Pacific Gas & Electric, where she played a significant role in promoting clean energy investments and regulatory advancements.

Paskett's public service record is equally impressive, featuring appointments to the Metropolitan Water District Board and the California High-Speed Rail Commission, alongside her involvement in civic organizations that advocate for sustainability and clean energy development. Her educational background includes a Juris Doctor from UOP McGeorge School of Law and being an active member of the California State Bar, further emphasizing her capability to navigate the complex legalities surrounding clean energy initiatives.

The establishment of FPH2 marks a crucial milestone, being the first public hydrogen utility in the United States designed to link hydrogen producers with end-users through a transparent and cost-effective framework. Operating as a Joint Powers Authority (JPA), FPH2 facilitates hydrogen procurement and infrastructure enhancement, thereby easing the transition to clean energy for municipalities and private sectors alike. By unifying demand and promoting strategic collaborations, FPH2 is poised to make hydrogen solutions more accessible and economical.

In summary, Lorraine Paskett's appointment as COO of First Public Hydrogen symbolizes a forward-thinking approach in the pursuit of clean energy solutions, building a framework that not only supports California's decarbonization agenda but positions FPH2 at the forefront of the hydrogen economy. This pivotal hiring decision is expected to propel FPH2 into a new era of sustainable energy leadership, reflecting their commitment to innovating for a greener future.

To learn more about FPH2 and how they are transforming the clean energy sector, visit FirstPublicH2.com.