Rendall’s tenure includes successful completion of Addison Natural Gas Project, establishing first-of-its-kind Renewable Natural Gas program, launching Climate Plan to be net zero by 2050
South Burlington, Vt. – VGS President and CEO Don Rendall announced today plans to step down in September 2020 after 6 years leading the company. The VGS Board of Directors has selected respected public and private sector leader Neale Lunderville as the next President and CEO.
Rendall joined VGS in 2015, where he stabilized and led the successful completion of the Addison Natural Gas Project, bringing families and businesses in Addison County a cleaner, more affordable energy choice. Under Rendall’s leadership, VGS became the first utility in the US to offer a renewable natural gas program to its customers and a key partner supporting local generation of renewable natural gas in Addison County. Rendall launched VGS’ Climate Plan last Fall to achieve deep reductions in carbon emissions and net zero by 2050. During his tenure, VGS customers have enjoyed a steady decline in the cost of heating homes and businesses.
“I have had the privilege to work together with a talented, dedicated VGS team,” said Rendall. “This team shows up every day engaged and committed to delivering superior energy services to our customers, building a team-based culture and pursuing a clean energy future. I am thrilled that Neale Lunderville, who brings an extraordinary record of building and transforming organizations, will lead VGS in pursuing a bold clean energy vision.”
Lunderville’s career spans public and private sectors with an emphasis on innovation, energy, and collaboration. Neale served the administration of Governor Douglas as Secretary of Transportation and Administration. He was Irene Recovery Officer leading the state’s response to Tropical Storm Irene for Governor Peter Shumlin, and most recently he served the administration of Governor Phil Scott assisting in the State’s immediate health and economic response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. He served as General Manager of the Burlington Electric Department for four years by appointment of Mayor Miro Weinberger. In the private sector, Neale worked for Green Mountain Power, and co-founded and led NG Advantage, a company that serves compressed natural gas to customers off the pipeline.
“I have a deep love for Vermont and a desire to be part of organizations that innovate, grow, and adapt to changes in our environment and economy,” said Lunderville. “The VGS team exemplifies these traits. We are in very unusual times. As a trusted energy provider and industry innovator, VGS will have an essential role to play making our state more affordable and viable for families and businesses. I’m excited about the work ahead.”
Local business owner and VGS Interim Chair of the Board, Sara Byers, praised Rendall for his strong leadership and welcomed Lunderville to the company. “On behalf of the board, we thank Don for his extraordinary leadership at VGS. Don has led VGS through some of the most challenging times with skill, passion, and strong results. We welcome Neale to the team. We know he is the right leader for the next chapter in VGS’ story as we show the nation and world what is possible when you put customers’ first and work to serve the greater good.”
Lunderville, who consulted for VGS on their work to become net zero by 2050, will join the company in June and become President and CEO on October 1st.
About VGS
VGS is a leader in energy efficiency and innovation, offering a clean, safe, affordable choice for over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont’s clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and becoming Net Zero by 2050. For more information about Vermont Gas visit www.vgsvt.com
Media Contact
Dylan Giambatista
(802) 391-6475
dgiambatista@vermontgas.com