October 2026 Newsletter

The Oregon Department of Energy is pleased to welcome Denice Calderon and Les Walton as the newest members of the Energy Facility Siting Council. Both members were appointed by Governor Kotek and confirmed by the Senate. Calderon will serve an interim term from June 22, 2026, through June 30, 2027 followed by an additional term from July 1, 2027 - June 30, 2031. Walton's first term began July 1, 2026 and will continue through June 30, 2030.

Both new members bring a strong background in public service and technical knowledge to the council. Calderon, a resident of La Grande, grew up in California, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from San Jose State University and is most recently serving as the Founder & Chief Executive at Aetervaja Technologies & Development. Walton was raised in Linn County, OR and served in the U.S. Navy as a Utilities and Energy Management Director from 1999 to 2019, while most recently working for Shneider Electric as a Power and Energy Solutions Architect.

Calderon and Walton will join current council members Cindy Condon, Ann Beier, Kent Howe, Richard Devlin, and Patty Perry. Members are selected to understand, evaluate, and deliberate complex issues associated with proposed energy facilities under state jurisdiction and how those facilities affect Oregonians, the environment, and nearby communities. The council has the authority to approve or deny site certificates to allow applicants to construct and operate an energy facility. If a site certificate is granted, the council has ongoing regulatory authority over the construction and operation of the facility. The council also regulates the transportation of radioactive materials through Oregon, the disposal of radioactive materials within the state's borders, and the decommissioning of the Trojan Nuclear Power Plant.

To learn more about the council and how to participate in the facility siting process visit the Oregon Department of Energy's website.