Malloy appoints Caron to head utilities agency

Hartford — Michael Caron, a former director of public affairs for Pfizer Inc. and a former nine-term member of the state House of Representatives, has been named interim director of the state Public Utilities Regulatory Authority.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced the appointment Thursday.

"Michael Caron has an extensive background in public policy and public service - his experience will be invaluable to PURA," Malloy said. "It is critical that we address Connecticut's high energy costs in multiple ways - improving efficiency and conservation efforts, ensuring consumer advocacy during rate request reviews, and engaging a comprehensive policy development strategy for energy and utility providers.

I am confident that Michael will serve the state well as a member of PURA."

PURA, which replaced the Department of Public Utility Control in Malloy's overhaul of state government, regulates the rates and services of providers of electricity, natural gas, water and telecommunications. It also oversees cable television companies.

"I am honored by the governor's nomination and the opportunity to once again serve the people of Connecticut," Caron said.

A West Hartford resident, Caron most recently served as an associate lobbyist for Camilliere, Cloud & Kennedy, a lobbying and business development firm. Prior to that, he was the director of public affairs-global sites for Pfizer. He served as an assistant minority leader in the state House from 1991-2009, representing a district that comprised Killingly, Plainfield and Sterling.

Pending confirmation by the General Assembly, Caron will serve as an interim appointee on the three-member authority whose other members are Chairman Arthur House and Vice Chairman Jack Betkoski III.