Cornett oversees all operations of Rhode Island Energy with a focus on rates and regulatory strategy, business growth and development, public affairs, communications and stakeholder engagement.
Before his promotion in March 2024 to president of Rhode Island Energy, a subsidiary of PPL, Cornett served as vice president and deputy general counsel for PPL. A 25-year utility industry veteran, Cornett has successfully led various regulatory and legal strategies during his career.
Prior to serving as VP and deputy general counsel for PPL, Cornett served as associate general counsel and director of legal services for PPL subsidiaries Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company. He also previously was an equity member with a large law firm in Kentucky, where he focused his work in the utility sector.
Cornett earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Kentucky and a law degree from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law.
He is a graduate of multiple leadership programs, including Wharton’s Executive Development Program, and is actively involved with several industry groups, including the Edison Electric Institute. After starting his new role at RIE, Cornett will be serving on the board of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce.