James Frasher has been named the new Chief Growth and Innovation Officer at California public power utility SMUD.
"With a strong background in innovation, technology commercialization, and strategic partnerships, combined with deep private-sector startup and entrepreneurial experience, James has been pivotal at SMUD since 2017," the utility noted.
He most recently served as SMUD's Director of Research & Development, Grants and Partnerships, leading groundbreaking initiatives such as Storage Shares, Virtual Power Plant partnerships, major grant pursuits bringing millions of dollars to the region and expanded regional partnerships that are positioning Sacramento as a technology and clean-energy manufacturing hub.
"As our new Chief Growth & Innovation Officer, James will drive top-line revenue growth through commercial strategy and diversified non-ratepayer revenues, while leading business attraction and regional economic development to grow Sacramento’s clean-tech and advanced manufacturing footprint," SMUD said.
He will also expand programs that bring technologies such as energy storage, mobility, smart buildings and load flexibility to market, and strengthen collaborations across public, private and academic sectors to support regional job creation and deliver greater value for our customers.
