PALMER, Alaska — Matanuska Electric Association (MEA) announced that Chief Executive Officer Tony Izzo will retire from the cooperative next spring after more than 45 years in the natural gas and electric utility industries, including over 25 years shaping Alaska’s energy landscape.

Izzo has served as MEA’s CEO since 2016, guiding the cooperative through significant growth and major changes in Alaska’s energy landscape. He started his tenure at MEA in 2012, after serving as the President of ENSTAR Natural Gas and an advisor to state and private sector entities as an industry consultant.

“I first met Tony while he was supporting the community at our local Drive Your Tractor To Work Day event and I knew it was a team I wanted to join,” said Arthur Keyes, President of the MEA Board of Directors. “Tony is a trusted, knowledgeable and authentic leader both inside and outside the organization and has brought tremendous value to our members and the interconnected Railbelt electric system. He will be greatly missed.”

The Board also announced that Clay Koplin will become MEA’s next CEO, effective January 7, 2027.

Koplin joins MEA from Cordova Electric Cooperative, where he has served as CEO for almost 20 years. A professional electrical engineer with an MBA from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, Koplin brings extensive experience in Alaska electric systems, utility management, hydroelectric projects and developing collaborative, forward-thinking solutions. In addition, Koplin has served in leadership roles on several federal and state-wide boards, including as the current Chair of the Alaska Energy Authority Board of Directors.

“Clay brings a unique and valuable combination of technical expertise, proven leadership experience, strong relationships and an innovative approach to problem solving,” said MEA Board President Arthur Keyes. “We are fortunate to welcome him to MEA and have full trust in his ability to lead the cooperative as we secure our energy future.”

Izzo and Koplin will work together through the leadership transition to ensure continuity for MEA’s members, employees and operations. Izzo will continue to advise MEA on gas supply and other strategic matters into the new year.

MEA is Alaska’s oldest and fastest-growing electric cooperative, serving approximately 58,000 members through 73,000 meters across Southcentral Alaska.