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HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) announced Monday that Ralph Yanora of Pittston Township has been appointed to the Commission to serve a five-year term.
“We look forward to working with Commissioner Yanora and welcome his insights and experience,” said PUC Chairman Gladys Brown Dutrieuille. “His extensive background in the water, wastewater, stormwater and natural gas distribution industries will be beneficial as the Commission continues to tackle a diverse list of infrastructure and other utility issues facing Pennsylvania.”
Yanora’s appointment was approved on Oct. 23, by the Senate, by a 45-3 vote, following a unanimous recommendation on Oct. 22, by the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee. He was sworn in during a brief ceremony in Harrisburg on Oct 24.
At his confirmation hearing, Yanora emphasized that his career has been dedicated to ensuring “safe, adequate, and continuous drinking water supply throughout our Commonwealth, which is very much a part of the Commission’s core mission.”
He also stressed the key role of consumer protection in the PUC’s work, noting, “I served customers throughout my career, and I look forward to continuing to serve and protect the Commonwealth’s utility customers while finding the appropriate balance between the needs of these consumers with those of the regulated utilities.”
With more than 40 years of experience in the water, wastewater, natural gas, and more recently stormwater industries, Yanora is the founder and retired CEO of Pennsylvania Water Specialties Company — which provides consulting and management services for cross connection control programs, water loss programs, as well as operation and maintenance programs for water distribution companies.
Yanora is a licensed master plumber and a certified instructor and trainer who has been recognized by the American Society of Sanitary Engineers for his knowledge and dedication to safeguarding water systems.
He is also an associate member of Pennsylvania Rural Water Association, a statewide organization whose mission is to support its approximately 1,100 municipal members along with all water and wastewater operators throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Additionally, since 2018 Yanora has served as a Pittston Township Supervisor, a position he has resigned.
Yanora resides in Pittston Township with his wife, Carmela, and their daughter Christina.
He succeeds Commissioner Norman J. Kennard, whose term expired on March 31.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.