The passing of Paul Sommerville, the Executive Director of Mowat Energy at the Mowat Centre in Toronto, Ontario, marks the end of a distinguished career dedicated to shaping the future of energy policy and public service in Canada. A graduate of both Glendon College at York University and the University of Western Ontario Law School, Sommerville’s remarkable journey took him through various sectors, from law and regulatory affairs to leadership in the energy industry.
Sommerville began his professional career as the Director of Legal Services at the Ontario Trucking Association, where he developed a strong foundation in legal affairs. His exceptional skills did not go unnoticed, and soon, he was recruited by General Motors of Canada Limited, where he took on the pivotal role of Counsel responsible for Environmental, Health and Safety, and Human Rights matters. His deep expertise in these areas would later prove invaluable in his subsequent positions.
In the mid-2000s, Sommerville’s career took a turn toward public service when he joined the Ontario Energy Board as a Member. His work at the Board earned him a reputation as a forward-thinking leader, advocating for responsible regulatory policies that balanced the needs of both consumers and industry players. His next significant role was at Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited, where he served as the Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and General Counsel. Here, he navigated the complexities of energy regulation, legal issues, and corporate governance.
However, it was his leadership at the Mowat Centre that truly distinguished him. As Executive Director of Mowat Energy, Sommerville brought his wealth of experience to bear in guiding the Centre’s work on energy policy research. Under his leadership, Mowat Energy became a respected voice in discussions about Canada’s energy future, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and the practical challenges of energy policy implementation.
Paul Sommerville’s legacy will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to public service, his advocacy for responsible energy policy, and his exceptional leadership in both the private and public sectors. He leaves behind a lasting impact on Canada’s energy landscape and a profound influence on those who worked with him.
