The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has picked Ray Long of Clearway Energy Group to lead the non-profit as its new president and chief executive officer (CEO).  

Long will replace the current incumbent Gregory Wetstone who leaves the organization this year, after 8 years of leading the association. 

The new hire comes to the association with over 25 years of experience in leading campaigns and initiatives in energy and the renewables sector. At Clearway, he was responsible for leading the company’s government, regulatory and communications team. He was also responsible for managing the policy advocacy for a portfolio of projects for the company across the country.  

Prior to joining Clearway, Long looked after government affairs for NRG Energy for over 15 years, according to his LinkedIn profile. 

His confirmation to the top job was unanimously approved by the council’s Board of Directors. At ACORE, Long will oversee its strategic planning and core activities including government affairs, communications, research & analysis, executive programs, market expansion priorities, signature events and fundraising that were hitherto handled by Wetstone. 

“Ray Long has the deep renewable energy industry knowledge, leadership skills, expertise, and enthusiasm needed to promote and defend the policies, technologies, and financial structures necessary for the continued acceleration of clean energy growth and the achievement of a just energy transition,” said ACORE’s Board Chair and Senior Vice President of Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs for RWE Clean Energy LLC, Kevin Gresham. 

Previously the Vice President of Terra-Gen Power LLC, Wetstone announced his decision to leave ACORE in January 2023, saying he will move on to the next chapter in his life.