Julie A Keil, a prominent figure in the US hydro industry for many years, sadly died on 24 November. Her most recent posts were held at GEI consultants and as chair of the Low Impact Hydropower Institute.
With more than 30 years of experience in power contracting and hydro licensing in the western US, Julie had been Director of Hydro Licensing for the Portland General Electric Company, President of the National Hydropower Association (NHA) and of the Northwest Hydroelectric Association. She is one of few individuals to have received both the NW Hydro Association’s Pam Klatt Lifetime Achievement Award and the NHA’s Ken Henwood Lifetime Achievement Award.
Julie received the NHA award in 2003 for her continued dedication to the hydro industry; her active involvement in reforming the hydro relicensing process; and furthering the cause of sustaining hydro power as the US’s leading renewable energy technology.
Andy Sims, chairman of the selection committee at the time, said: "Julie’s commitment to fair dealing and plain speaking is exhibited in all of the many corporate and industry activities with which she has been involved. She is one of the most progressive activists in the industry and she is considered by her colleagues to be an excellent communicator and listener. Julie uses her keen intelligence to develop creative solutions to very difficult problems. When this intelligence is combined with her powerful speaking abilities, our industry is favoured with a unique individual."
