PRESQUE ISLE – Maine Public Service Co. has announced that J. Nick Bayne of Charlotte, N.C., has been chosen as the utility’s new president and chief executive officer.

Bayne will succeed Paul Carini, who has announced his retirement effective Sept. 1. Bayne will begin his transition responsibilities March 18.

Maine Public Service provides electricity transmission and distribution services to all of Aroostook County, as well as parts of northern Penobscot County.

Bayne’s energy career includes serving as senior vice president for energy operations and sales for Duke Energy’s unregulated retail energy services, Duke Solutions, in Charlotte, N.C., and as vice president of marketing, economic development and participant services for MEAG Power in Atlanta, Ga..

He also led economic development efforts for Carolina Power & Light Co. and was president of the West Virginia-based Business and Industrial Development Corp., where he oversaw rural development and sustainable growth strategies.

“After an extensive nationwide search, Nick was selected due to his extensive retail energy experience, overall industry knowledge, understanding of rural issues, and his proven leadership abilities,” G. Melvin Hovey, MPS chairman of the board, said in a press release announcing Bayne’s selection.

“His experience with both regulated and unregulated energy firms, combined with his entrepreneurial, energy-related experiences, will bring new insights and directions as we shape our long-term corporate strategies,” Hovey said.

In making the announcement, Hovey also praised Carini.

“We are extremely grateful for the sound leadership Paul has provided, successfully guiding our firm through Maine’s process of electric-utility deregulation,” Hovey said.

“His leadership has been key in successfully transitioning our firm through these changing times.”

Bayne is an environmental science graduate of Southwestern Community College.

He also completed undergraduate and graduate programs at the University of South Carolina. He and his family will move to Presque Isle.