Larry Bekkedahl, Architect Of PGE’s Grid Modernization Strategy, Announces Retirement (Photo) - 02/19/26

Industry leader recognized for driving technology, resilience and clean energy solutions

Portland, Ore. — Portland General Electric (PGE) today announced that Larry Bekkedahl, senior vice president of Strategy & Advanced Energy Delivery, will retire on March 31, 2026, after more than four decades of leadership in the energy industry.

Bekkedahl has been widely recognized as a visionary leader and innovator, shaping the future of the electric grid through groundbreaking technology and strategic partnerships. Since joining PGE in 2014, he has spearheaded initiatives to modernize Oregon’s grid, integrate renewable resources and enhance system resilience against wildfire, cyber threats and extreme weather.

“Larry’s contributions to PGE and the broader energy sector have been extraordinary,” said Maria Pope, president and CEO of Portland General Electric. “His leadership and innovative approach have positioned PGE at the forefront of building a smarter, cleaner grid, while keeping affordability for our customers at the center of every decision. Larry has proven that innovation isn’t just about progress, it’s what allows us to keep costs low while transforming the grid for tomorrow.”

Throughout his career, Bekkedahl has championed collaboration between industry and academia, earning prestigious honors such as the Distinguished Industry Advisor Award from Stanford University and being named one of Energy Central’s Leaders in Innovation Champions for his work on grid modernization. His efforts have advanced technologies like two-way grid connectivity, large-scale energy storage, and flexible load management – critical components of a cleaner, smarter energy system.

Bekkedahl was instrumental in the planning, development and construction of PGE’s Integrated Operations Center, a core piece of the smart grid’s nerve center and critical to PGE’s strategy to deliver reliable, affordable, clean energy to customers. The IOC houses operating processes that enable the smooth operations of the distribution and transmission systems, cybersecurity, wildfire operations and other key systems.

“Larry has been a trusted partner and thought leader in shaping a more resilient and sustainable grid for the West,” said Elliot Mainzer, president and CEO of the California Independent System Operator. “His vision and commitment to innovation have strengthened regional collaboration and set a high standard for our industry.”

Before joining PGE, Bekkedahl held senior leadership roles at Bonneville Power Administration, Clark Public Utilities, PacifiCorp and Montana Power Company. He serves on numerous advisory boards, including the Electric Power Research Institute Research Advisory Committee, Stanford University’s Bits & Watts Advisory Council, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the Office of Electricity for the U.S. Department of Energy.

Bekkedahl’s retirement marks the culmination of a career dedicated to strengthening and modernizing the electric grid. His vision for a smarter, cleaner, and more resilient system has shaped PGE’s strategy and positioned Oregon to meet growing energy needs while advancing a clean energy future. His legacy of innovation and collaboration will continue to guide PGE as we work to deliver reliable, affordable power for decades to come.