Governor's energy adviser named to panel

Gov. Brian Sandoval has appointed the chief of his energy office to the top post on the Nevada Public Utilities Commission.
   
Sandoval announced Wednesday that Paul Thomsen would chair the powerful commission, which regulates utility companies and approves rate changes. It has also been at the center of ongoing debates over net metering, the policy allowing customers with rooftop solar installations to sell energy back to the utility company.
   
Thomsen's appointment takes effect Oct. 1. He'll replace outgoing Commissioner Rebecca Wagner, who has served on the panel since 2006.
   
Current chairwoman Alaina Burtenshaw will remain a regular member of the commission.
   
Thomsen has served as the governor's top energy policy adviser for two years. He'll be replaced by Angela Dykema, who is the deputy director of the governor's energy office.