Sen. Murkowski Receives NRECA’s Distinguished Service Award

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) on Thursday received the Distinguished Service Award of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The NRECA put out the following press release on the award.

“Sen. Murkowski is a true friend of electric cooperatives and a leader on energy issues. Her bipartisan approach to solving some of our country’s most difficult problems offers a bright spot in our Nation’s Capital while her steadfast focus on Alaska and its economy suggest a model to follow for public servants,” NRECA CEO Jo Ann Emerson said.

“Sen. Murkowski’s record on the environment is significant and she has been one of the strongest voices probing the impact of the Environmental Protection Agency’s aggressive air regulations on electric grid reliability,” said Meera Kohler, President and CEO of Alaska Village Electric Cooperative and NRECA Board Member.

“Throughout her nearly 20 years of public service, Sen. Murkowski has worked hard for our state and country, and she always brings a common sense approach to energy and electricity issues,” said Marilyn Leland, Executive Director of the Alaska Power Association. “She understands the value of reliable, affordable electric power and the need for a carefully balanced approach to regulation.”

The NRECA Board of Directors confers its Distinguished Service Award on an outstanding national leader whose history of support for rural electrification and public power merits special recognition.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association is the national service organization that represents the nation’s more than 900 private, not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric cooperatives, which provide service to 42 million people in 47 states.