Fredericksburg, Va. — Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) has promoted Karan Patel to Managing Director–Energy Solutions and Clean Energy.

In his new role, Patel will be pivotal in helping members save money by focusing on the integration and expansion of energy solutions and clean energy technologies.

“The work that Patel and his team will undertake is aimed to inform and involve members in embracing technologies that boost their energy independence and resilience, with an emphasis on sustainability,” explained Peter Muhoro, Chief Strategy, Technology and Innovation Officer. “His expertise perfectly aligns with REC’s strategic goals, and he will be fundamental in shaping the Cooperative’s future in energy solutions and clean energy, thereby providing significant benefits to REC’s members.”

Patel has an extensive background in business planning and development, specifically in the energy utility industry. He’s spent many years in the field of power engineering, with previous roles including Field Engineering Manager at Voltus, Senior Engineer in Distribution Automation at Commonwealth Edison, Senior Engineer in Smart Grid, Technology, and Innovation at Pepco Holdings, and Senior Distribution Engineering Assistant in Distribution and Planning Engineering at Patterson and Dewar Engineers.

In his most recent position as REC’s Staff Electrical Engineering Supervisor, Patel provided strong leadership and oversight on the execution of the Cooperative’s Construction Work Plan while managing a team of Planning Engineers.

Patel earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Clemson University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer, a Certified Commercial Unmanned Aircraft System Pilot and serves on Milsoft Utility Solutions’ Advisory Board.

REC provides electric service to over 177,000 connections in parts of 22 Virginia counties. With its general office in Fredericksburg, Va., the Cooperative operates and maintains more than 18,000 miles of power lines through its service area, which ranges from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the tidal waters of the Chesapeake Bay. For more information about REC, please visit www.myrec.coop. Follow REC on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.