ORJIAKOR ISIOGU

Chairman, Michigan Public Service Commission

Chosen because: Isiogu, 54, is promoting electric vehicles to help revive Michigan's economy, and is creating some innovative programs in the process. The commission pushed Michigan utility companies to offer experimental rates and $2,500 rebates for the first 2,500 homeowners who install EV charging stations.

Quote: "The state of Michigan is well-suited to capitalize on PEV technology," Isiogu told Crain's Detroit Business in September.