NEW YORK, April 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- OwnEnergy, Inc., a Community Wind development company that partners with landowners to help them develop and own their own mid-size wind farms, announced that Governor Ed Rendell has joined its board of directors.  The former governor will bring his renewable energy leadership and years of experience in public policy and renewable energy to the Company's 'power to the people' mission of community-based wind farm development.  Community Wind has been shown to create more jobs and greater local economic benefit, while garnering high levels of local support for wind projects and making more efficient use of our existing electrical grid.

In accepting his appointment, Governor Rendell said, "I am extremely pleased to join the board of OwnEnergy because I strongly believe that wind energy is one of the keys to producing clean, homegrown energy as well as spurring American entrepreneurship and innovation.  What makes OwnEnergy special is that its goals are to enable renewable energy to be developed and owned in the community, by the community, and for the community.  The Company is building a nationwide network of energy entrepreneurs in resource-rich communities and providing them the platform to leverage their local resources in an unprecedented and financially lucrative way. This is a great concept and a great growth company."

As Governor of Pennsylvania since 2003, Rendell directed strategic investments that helped revitalize the state's economy while trimming the deficit, applying business principles of productivity and cost-savings to state operations.  His administration is often credited with bringing some of the most important renewable energy companies to the United States.  Mayor of Philadelphia from 1992-1999, he received the moniker "America's Mayor" and led what the New York Times called "the most stunning turnaround in recent urban history."

Jacob Susman, founder and CEO, described himself as delighted by Rendell's appointment, saying that his track record as Mayor and then Governor showed he was the kind of leader who could make big things happen.  "Beyond his unrivaled expertise in government, his proven ability to pick winners in renewable energy and his commitment to a sustainable future made him an ideal board member for our company.  The Governor is a straight shooter who goes out and gets things done.  Just like our typical partner, he is an entrepreneurial guy and a proven leader.  His unparalleled access to critical decision makers for our industry and his 'go get 'em' attitude will bring great benefit to our shareholders.  All of us at OwnEnergy are excited to have him as a Director."

Before serving as Mayor of Philadelphia, Governor Rendell was District Attorney of Philadelphia from 1978 through 1985.  He also served as general chair of the Democratic National Committee during the 2000 Presidential election.  He teaches government and politics courses at the University of Pennsylvania.  An Army veteran, he holds a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and a J.D. from the Villanova Law School.

About OwnEnergy

OwnEnergy, Inc. is a Community Wind developer of mid-sized, utility scale wind projects that enable landowners and communities to build and profit directly from their own local wind farms.  The company is based in Brooklyn, New York.  Please visit www.ownenergy.net.

SOURCE OwnEnergy, Inc.