Providence, RI – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) announced today that his guest for this year’s State of the Union address will be Scott DePasquale, CEO of Utilidata – a Providence-based company that produces technology to help reduce energy waste from power lines between utilities’ substations and their customers. The company moved to Providence from Spokane, Washington approximately two years ago and – with 36 employees and more hires coming soon – is growing quickly.
“Scott’s work is a great Rhode Island example of how innovative businesses can help jumpstart our state’s economy,” said Whitehouse. “Furthermore, as we continue fighting the effects of climate change, Scott’s business helps transmit energy in a more efficient way that can reduce harmful carbon pollution. I thank Scott for his work in this field, and I look forward to hearing from the President about his vision for America’s clean energy future.”
“I am honored to join Senator Whitehouse at this year’s State of the Union address,” said DePasquale. “This honor goes to all of my talented colleagues at Utilidata who are working with passion and dedication to help our utility and industrial customers improve the environment, the economy, and our country’s competitiveness. Senator Whitehouse’s leadership on climate change issues has encouraged the development of innovative energy technologies, great jobs and ultimately a cleaner environment for future generations. We look forward to continuing to do our part furthering the state of Rhode Island as a center for innovation, technology leadership, and energy efficiency.”
Senator Whitehouse is a leading voice in Congress for action to combat climate change and invest in clean energy and energy efficiency initiatives. Last year, he released a “discussion draft” of legislation to establish a fee on carbon pollution, with the proceeds to be returned to the American people. Whitehouse is also a strong supporter of President Obama’s plan to establish carbon pollution standards for coal-fired power plants. Policies such as these provide incentives for big utility companies to work with small businesses like Utilidata to transmit energy in ways that save consumers money and reduce pollution.
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