Robinson, an engineer, has been working on Emera's Caribbean business for some time and will now turn his focus to Grand Bahama. During his tenure with Emera he spent three years as the President and Chief Operating Officer of Bangor Hydro Electric Company, in Maine, USA, serving over 117,000 customers, improving reliability, stakeholder relations and customer service, while lowering electrical costs to customers over that period.

He has also served terms as President of Emera Utility Services and as a member of the Joint Owners Committee of Bear Swamp Power Company. Prior to Emera, Ray was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Yukon Energy Corporation, as well as holding various senior positions at West Kootenay Power and Nelson Hydro in British Columbia, St. Catharine's Hydro and Canadian Niagara Power in Ontario, Bowater Mersey Paper Company in Nova Scotia and the City of Calgary Electric System in Alberta.

"We know Grand Bahama Power Company has had some difficult issues in the last few years," noted Wayne Crawley, FCA President and CEO, Emera Caribbean Limited, Emera Inc.

"We know the fix will not be overnight. However Ray Robinson has the right experience and knows how to bring this utility up to Emera operational standards to the benefit of the GBPC customers. Robinson will also have access to senior Emera resources, and Emera will turn around this company for the benefit of the citizens of Grand Bahama and for The Bahamas."

Robinson will concentrate his efforts on the building of the new diesel plant as announced late last year by Chris Huskilson, Emera President and CEO. This will include a comprehensive technology-training plan for Bahamians, similar to a technical academy, as well as oversee the installation of two leading edge wind turbines. These will be the first of their kind in all of The Bahamas and Caribbean.

Robinson who was born in Saskatchewan, Canada, is married with three children. He was a former Junior Achievement advisor, Cub Scout leader, Chairman of the United Way in Fort Erie and former member of various Chambers of Commerce.

Having visited Grand Bahama many times, he is very familiar with it and looks forward to his role in the turnaround efforts at Grand Bahama Power Company.

"I am excited about my new challenge and I look forward to working with Alan Kelley and the Grand Bahama Power team to revitalize the company," said Robinson.

"I have worked in similar situations before and I know that we can improve reliability and customer service levels, while lowering the cost of electricity to GBPC customers over time. I look forward to meeting with the government, regulators and community leaders to explore opportunities of mutual benefit."