William Parks serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Grid Controls and Communications within the U. S. Department of Energy (DOE)’s Office of Electricity. His group works in several critical areas affecting the technology, market and regulations of the U. S. electricity system. Key areas include research and development in grid modeling, controls, cybersecurity, and communications covering transmission and distribution needs. The portfolio also includes working with states and regions, providing technical assistance for grid operations and planning. This includes key relationships with grid-related organizations including NASEO, NGA, NCSL, NASUCA and NARUC. Other relationships include NRECA, AEIC and APPA.
Mr. Parks has more than 45 years’ experience in energy issues in the public and private sectors. He has held offices associated with electricity and industrial technology issues. These included Chair of the DOE agency-wide Grid Modernization Initiative (2011-2018) and Senior Energy Advisor to Governor Lingle of Hawaii (2006-2010). He led the development of the U. S. Hydrogen Vision and Roadmap (2002) and the Advanced Gas Turbine Systems Program (1992-2000). Management positions included OE Deputy Director and Industrial Technology Crosscuts Director.
Before joining DOE in 1990, he spent 11 years in industry with Babcock and Wilcox and Dresser Industries, including 3 years in a new business venture targeting new materials and components for energy systems. He holds a Master of Science degree in materials engineering and a bachelor’s degree in geological science.