Preston Pierce

Role: Emcee

Preston Pierce is the Hydro General Manager for Duke Energy and an active member of the National Hydro Association serving on the Pump Storage Committee, Market Committee and recently elected to the NHA Board of Directors. As the General Manager he is responsible for a fleet of hydro assets that total approximately 2650 MW and include two pump storage hydro facilities at Bad Creek and Jocassee. He has a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University and Georgia Tech respectively. During his 30 years in the electric industry he has worked across many different generation technologies including nuclear, coal, oil, gas, hydro and solar. Additionally, experience in Bulk Electric System Operations and Planning including ISO/RTO development have led to his involvement on several grid transformation initiatives. As a leader in the hydroelectric industry, Preston is uniquely positioned to offer insight into opportunities for renewable expansion and energy storage solutions. Duke Energy is a leader in renewable energy as we make our journey to net zero carbon and building a smarter energy future.