Brian Cunnington is the Energy and Professional Services Manager at Energy Northwest, a Washington state public power agency that generates and provides carbon-free electricity to its member utilities and regional customers. It operates a diverse mix of generation facilities, including hydro, solar, wind, and the Northwest’s only commercial nuclear plant, Columbia Generating Station.
Northwest also supports new generation projects, transportation electrification initiatives, and professional services including workforce development, cybersecurity, and federal funding assistance.
Here’s a closer look at the work Energy Northwest does:
Public Power Focus:
Energy Northwest is a joint operating agency (JOA) formed by the Washington state legislature in 1957, representing a partnership between public utility districts and municipalities.
Diverse Generation Portfolio:
Energy Northwest operates a variety of generation facilities, including:
- Columbia Generating Station: The Northwest’s only commercial nuclear power plant, located on the Hanford Site.
- Hydroelectric projects: Including Stone Creek Hydroelectric Project and Packwood Lake Hydroelectric Project.
- Solar projects: Like White Bluffs Solar Station and Horn Rapids Solar.
- Wind project: Nine Canyon Wind Project.
- Battery storage: Horn Rapids Solar, Storage, and Training Project.
Professional Services:
Energy Northwest offers a wide range of professional services to its member utilities, including:
- Workforce Development: Programs focused on training and developing the clean energy workforce through internships, workshops, and career pathways.
- Cybersecurity: Services designed to enhance the security and resilience of energy systems and infrastructure against evolving cyber threats.
- Federal Funding (Grant) Programs: Assistance in securing and managing federal grants for clean energy projects, workforce development, and transportation electrification.
Member Utilities:
Energy Northwest serves 29 public power member utilities, providing affordable, reliable, and clean energy to over 1.5 million customers.
Cost-Effective Energy:
Energy Northwest provides safe, reliable, and cost-effective power generation to its members and regional customers, focusing on economic sustainability and energy efficiency.
Clean Energy Focus:
Committed to producing carbon-free energy, Energy Northwest is a key partner in Washington state’s goal to achieve 100% clean energy by 2045.
Ongoing Development:
Energy Northwest is actively involved in developing new generation projects, including exploring small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), geothermal power, energy storage and other clean energy technologies.
Brian Cunnington, a native of Oregon, now calls Richland, Washington home. With a strong foundation in utility experience and energy, he is dedicated to delivering practical, forward-thinking solutions that promote long-term growth.
At Energy Northwest, Brian finds fulfillment in collaborating with member utilities and exploring opportunities to develop innovative energy solutions. He is passionate about building strong relationships and supporting projects that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
One of the most challenging aspects of his role is balancing project demands with the rapidly evolving priorities of the energy industry. However, Brian views these challenges as valuable opportunities for growth, learning, and meaningful impact.
A proud graduate of Oregon State University, Brian blends academic insight with hands-on experience to serve his organization and community with integrity and purpose. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active and taking full advantage of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty through tennis, golf, and fishing. Brian has been happily married to his wife for 22 years.