Photo courtesy of the Maryland Public Service Commission
Governor Wes Moore has appointed Kumar P. Barve as the new chair of the Maryland Public Service Commission, effective immediately. Barve succeeds Fred Hoover, who has stepped down from the role but will continue to serve as a commissioner.
Hoover led the Commission for three years during a period of significant transition in Maryland’s energy sector. Governor Moore acknowledged Hoover’s work on grid modernization and clean energy initiatives and noted his continued service on the Commission.
Barve joined the Public Service Commission in 2023 following a 32-year tenure in the Maryland House of Delegates. During his legislative career, he served as chair of the House Environment and Transportation Committee and as House majority leader. As chair, Barve will oversee statewide utility regulation, with a focus on energy reliability, affordability, and consumer protection.
