Ontario Appoints Mark White as Chair of the Ontario Energy Board
TORONTO – The Ontario government has appointed Mark White as the new Chair of the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), aiming to bolster the board’s role as a modern and effective energy regulator. White brings extensive experience in consumer protection, regulation, change management, and oversight, crucial for supporting Ontario’s growing economy.
“I would like to congratulate Mark White on his appointment as the new Chair of the Ontario Energy Board,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “As we build new homes, attract new investments, and electrify industry and transportation, the OEB is going to play a crucial role in advancing the government’s policies, including ensuring every family and business have access to clean, affordable, and reliable energy.”
White’s appointment coincides with the implementation of the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024. This legislation mandates broader engagement in regulatory proceedings to reflect the priorities of Ontarians.
We congratulate and welcome Mark White to the Ontario Energy Board following his recent appointment as Chair of the Board of Directors. pic.twitter.com/U6mJhi74gx
— Ontario Energy Board (@OntEnergyBoard) July 5, 2024
The Powering Ontario’s Growth Plan outlines the province’s strategy to expand energy generation, promote electrification, create jobs, and explore new opportunities for energy export. White’s extensive background, including his role as Chief Executive Officer of Ontario’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority, positions him well to ensure the OEB’s responsiveness to the evolving energy sector and economy.
“Mark’s recent work with the government to transform the province’s legacy financial regulators into a modern and efficient oversight body serves as an incredible example of what he can deliver at the Ontario Energy Board,” added Minister Lecce. “I also want to thank Glenn O’Farrell for stepping into the role of acting Chair over the last several months.”
The Ontario Energy Board will also focus on delivering key priorities outlined in the Minister’s Letter of Direction and implementing recommendations from the Electrification and Energy Transition Panel’s (EETP) final report, Ontario’s Clean Energy Opportunity.
Biography of Mr. Mark E. White
Mark White is a seasoned leader in regulation, policy, and governance, with a robust background in law, risk management, markets, and organizational transformation. As the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of Ontario’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority, he worked with the government to overhaul legacy regulators into a consultative, effective, and principles-based regulator dedicated to consumer protection and a strong financial services sector.
White has also served as Assistant Superintendent at the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions during the global financial crisis, managing multiple stakeholders and addressing critical market stability issues. His career includes roles as Senior Vice President & Head Enterprise Risk at Bank of Montreal, Managing Director at Royal Bank of Canada, and partner at Ernst & Young, among others. His regulatory experience emphasizes understanding business strategy and markets, ensuring effective competition, and serving the public interest.
