Jensen replacing Mike Rencheck, who has been named president and CEO of AREVA NP
– By Stephen Heiser –
Joseph N. (Joe) Jensen has been named senior vice president and chief nuclear officer of American Electric Power's D.C. Cook Nuclear Plant in Bridgman, Mich., effective Jan. 26. Jensen has been a vice president at Cook since 2003, most recently with responsibilities for design and plant engineering, technical projects and support services. Cook is a dual-unit nuclear site with a total generating capacity of 2,150 megawatts.
Jensen is replacing Mike Rencheck, who has been named president and CEO of AREVA NP Inc. in Lynchburg, Va.
"Joe has an extensive background in nuclear plant operations and management, both at Cook and at other plants, and is well-prepared to successfully lead the Cook team," said Nick Akins, AEP's executive vice president — Generation.
AEP's Cook Unit 1 has been out of service since Sept. 20, 2008, after severe turbine vibrations, caused by broken low-pressure turbine blades, damaged the main turbine and generator. The expected return-to-service timeline ranges from the second half of 2009, if rotor repair is successful, to 2010 if the rotors must be replaced before operation.
"Joe's ability to seamlessly assume the responsibilities of chief nuclear officer at Cook is evidence of the succession planning and talent development program at the plant. Joe has demonstrated a strong commitment to safety and plant reliability and has existing relationships with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations. I have every confidence that he will bring Unit 1 back to service in the time frame that we previously announced and continue our record of operational excellence at Cook.
"At the same time, we will miss Mike's many contributions to AEP and wish him the very best at AREVA. Under Mike's leadership, Cook performed as one of the nation's top nuclear plants. I'm sure AREVA will benefit from the leadership excellence that Mike has demonstrated throughout his time at AEP," Akins said.
Jensen will report to Akins. Raymond A. (Ray) Hruby Jr. has been named vice president — Site Support Services at Cook, replacing and reporting to Jensen.