SPP hires former WECC executive to lead state regulatory strategy
The Southwest Power Pool (SPP) has created a new executive position to support its westward expansion and appointed a veteran regulatory and grid-policy leader to fill the role.
SPP, which operates the electric grid across 14 states including Oklahoma, announced the hiring of Kristine Raper as Senior Director of State Regulatory Policy for the West, effective January 20. The newly created role reflects SPP’s growing footprint in the Western Interconnection and its continued development of regional transmission and market services.
Former WECC executive brings Western regulatory experience
Raper joins SPP after spending the past three years as Vice President of Strategic Engagement and External Affairs at the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC), headquartered in Salt Lake City. WECC plays a key role in coordinating grid reliability and policy across much of the western United States.
Before her time at WECC, Raper served as a commissioner on the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, giving her direct experience in state-level utility regulation. She also previously worked as a deputy attorney general for the state of Idaho, providing legal oversight on regulatory and energy matters.
Her academic background includes a bachelor’s degree from Boise State University and a law degree from the University of Idaho.
New role supports Markets+ and regional transmission growth
SPP said the new position is critical as the grid operator expands its services westward, including the rollout of Markets+, SPP’s day-ahead and real-time market platform designed for the Western Interconnection.
“Kris brings years of experience providing well-respected leadership on key issues for state regulators and electric industry stakeholders in the West,” said Paul Suskie, SPP Executive Vice President. “We are excited to have her join SPP as we expand westward with regional transmission organization services and the Markets+ day-ahead and real-time market.”
Focus on state regulatory coordination in Western states
In her new role, Raper will work closely with state utility regulatory commissioners across Western states to help advance SPP’s mission and address evolving policy challenges. Her responsibilities will include assisting SPP leadership with state and federal energy initiatives, regulatory engagement, and long-term strategic planning at the state level.
“As the grid continues to experience significant change, SPP is well-positioned to meet new challenges,” Raper said. “I look forward to contributing to the significant efforts they have already undertaken in the Western Interconnection.”
SPP’s expansion comes at a time when electric grids nationwide are facing rapid load growth, increased demand from data centers, evolving energy resource mixes, and rising pressure to expand transmission infrastructure.