Ralph Yanora was sworn in yesterday as a commissioner on the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) at a ceremony in Harrisburg.
“We look forward to working with Commissioner Yanora and welcome his insights and experience,” PUC Chairman Gladys Brown Dutrieuille said. “His extensive background in the water, wastewater, stormwater, and natural gas distribution industries will be beneficial as the Commission continues to tackle a diverse list of infrastructure and other utility issues facing Pennsylvania.”
Gov. Tom Wolf nominated Yanora to serve a five-year term on the PUC. The Senate approved Yanora’s appointment on Wednesday by a 45-3 vote following a unanimous recommendation on Tuesday by the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee.
At his confirmation hearing, Yanora said that his career has been dedicated to ensuring “safe, adequate, and continuous drinking water supply throughout our Commonwealth, which is very much a part of the Commission’s core mission.”
He also emphasized the role of consumer protection in the PUC’s work.
“I served customers throughout my career, and I look forward to continuing to serve and protect the Commonwealth’s utility customers while finding the appropriate balance between the needs of these consumers with those of the regulated utilities,” Yanora said.
Yanora has more than 40 years of experience in the water, wastewater, natural gas, and stormwater industries. He is the founder and retired CEO of Pennsylvania Water Specialties Company, which provides consulting and management services for cross-connection control programs, water loss programs, and operation and maintenance programs for water distribution companies.
Yanora is a licensed Master Plumber and a certified instructor and trainer. The American Society of Sanitary Engineers has recognized him for his knowledge and dedication to safeguarding water systems. He is also an associate member of the Pennsylvania Rural Water Association and previously served as a Pittston Township Supervisor. Yanora resides in Pittston Township, Luzerne County.
He succeeds Commissioner Norman J. Kennard, whose term expired on March 31.