FirstLight announced the planned departure of its president and chief executive officer, Alicia Barton, and the appointment of Justin Trudell, currently chief operating officer, as her successor.
The transition is effective Dec. 1, 2023.
Barton has been with the company for three years, charting a strategic vision, with Trudell as her counterpart leading operations and driving implementation. Barton will remain in the clean energy industry, taking on a new role after the New Year. Trudell was appointed COO in 2021 after establishing himself as a proven leader as vice president of operations.
“It is with great pride and total confidence that I pass the torch to my esteemed colleague Justin Trudell to lead FirstLight as they continue to advance the vision and growth strategy we’ve brought forth as a team,” said Barton. “This transition is both exciting and bittersweet as I move on from this incredible team and reflect on the tremendous strides we’ve made towards our mission. I am gratified knowing that FirstLight will be led by Justin, whose rich experience, passion, and drive is sure to inspire continued momentum for the company.”
Barton’s tenure brought forth a new strategic vision for FirstLight and represented a transformational period during which Trudell helped lead the implementation of growth efforts across the company’s evolving portfolio, according to a release. During that period, FirstLight integrated Ontario hydroelectric provider H2O Power, adding nearly 200 MW of operating assets to its portfolio. In addition, the company brought on 45 new employees, began building out a 2 GW development pipeline of clean energy and energy storage projects, and reached an agreement to acquire Canadian clean energy producer and developer Hydroméga, which is expected to close in 2023.
Trudell oversaw the day-to-day operations of the 1.6 GW portfolio of pumped storage, conventional hydro, battery and solar facilities, working with a team of over 100 clean energy professionals to safely operate, optimize and maintain the fleet.
“After nearly six years at FirstLight – learning the ins and outs of our projects, getting to know our incredible people, and for the past three years, working alongside a force like Alicia Barton – I couldn’t be more proud or prepared to take on this next chapter,” said Trudell. “I am motivated knowing the colossal potential of our operating assets, our development portfolio, and our best-in-class team to deliver on the extraordinary opportunity ahead that is the energy transition.”
Before joining FirstLight, Trudell served five years in the United States Navy, completing two combat deployments, and leading a team of around 15 sailors responsible for safely operating the nuclear reactors on an aircraft carrier at sea and abroad. He then spent nine years in progressive roles with Brookfield Renewable Power, covering operations and project development.
Trudell received his BS in economics from the United States Naval Academy and an MBA from the University of New Hampshire with a focus on finance and global business.
