Sep 30, 2024
Former Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) President Rick Dovey was recently named the recipient of the Frank J. Oliver Environmental Award from the New Jersey Environmental Lobby (NJEL). The award was established more than two decades ago to recognize individuals whose leadership and actions contributed directly to protecting New Jersey’s environment and public health.
“We congratulate Rick on this wonderful honor,” said current ACUA President Matthew DeNafo. “Rick is champion of the environment. He inaugurated many of ACUA’s renewable energy projects and has created a more sustainable future for our communities. His contributions will leave a positive impact for many years to come.”
Dovey served as the President of ACUA for than 33 years before retiring in 2023. He is credited for shaping the Authority into an award-winning, nationally recognized organization noted for its excellence in innovation, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.
As a strong proponent of renewable energy and sustainability, Dovey initiated many of ACUA’s ground-breaking projects. His forethought and determination made ACUA home to the state’s first commercial wind farm, a 500-kilowatt solar installation, South Jersey’s first compressed natural gas (CNG) station, a landfill gas-to-energy project, and the installation of the state’s first and largest energy storage battery project.
In selecting candidates for its annual Oliver Award, NJEL considers current issues that are urgent not only for protecting New Jersey’s environment, but also for repairing past damage and achieving future sustainability.
Dovey will be presented with the award alongside honorees Tyrese Gould Jacinto, Debra Coyle, and Timika Lindsay, at the NJEL awards dinner on Friday, November 8.