National Grid Honored for Promoting Economic Growth in Massachusetts

WALTHAM, MA (01/04/2011)(readMedia)-- With the Massachusetts economy still emerging from the recent recession, National Grid is being recognized for its efforts to bolster the state's economy and its commitment to civic enterprises throughout the Commonwealth.

MassEcon, a private-public partnership dedicated to promoting Massachusetts as a competitive location for business, recently presented the company with one of two of its 2010 Chairman's Award in recognition of its efforts. The group, founded in 1993 as the Massachusetts Alliance for Economic Development, cited National Grid for its work in providing "a continuous commitment to (MassEcon) over its 17-year history and providing leadership and resources essential to MassEcon's growth."

Attending the presentation was Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick who recognized the achievements of the recipients by noting, "The companies celebrated by MassEcon represent the innovative spirit and the rich diversity of industries we have in the Commonwealth. Across all regions of the state we are adding jobs and creating economic activity and these awards perfectly articulate that growth."

In accepting the award for National Grid, Marcy L. Reed, senior vice president of Corporate Affairs, reinforced the company's commitment to Massachusetts' economic well being. "National Grid has supported MassEcon from its inception because of its goal to invigorate the state's economy and its non-partisan approach in reaching that goal. The participation of Governor Patrick and so many groups and individuals from throughout the state is a clear indication of MassEcon's success."

National Grid was also recognized for its commitment to civic enterprises such as City Year and Habitat for Humanity, and for advancing technical training at community colleges and high schools throughout the state.

MassEcon membership includes representatives from public utilities, economic development, law, accounting, investment, real estate development and management, banking and other groups and organizations.

National Grid is an international energy delivery company. In the U.S., National Grid delivers electricity to approximately 3.3 million customers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island, and manages the electricity network on Long Island under an agreement with the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA). It is the largest distributor of natural gas in the northeastern U.S., serving approximately 3.4 million customers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island. National Grid also owns over 4,000 megawatts of contracted electricity generation that provides power to over one million LIPA customers.

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