Bheshaj Krishnappa is Director of Cybersecurity Policy & Reliability. In this role, he leads analysis on cybersecurity related topics related to integrating solar energy into the grid and advises stakeholders on policies and best practices to ensure reliability of solar energy resources across the nation. Prior to joining SEIA, Bheshaj worked at a regional regulator ensuring electric service reliability of bulk electric system across Midwest and mid-Atlantic states, and Washington D.C. In his role Bheshaj was responsible for managing all aspects of managing regulatory compliance, cyber risk, and operational resilience activities in the region securing critical electric infrastructure.

Before that, Bheshaj worked in senior management and consulting roles for energy, software and services, manufacturing, aerospace, mortgage, and finance companies building and leading cross-functional teams of cybersecurity professionals, collaborating with stakeholders, and driving risk management initiatives that align with business. Bheshaj is recognized for his thought leadership on driving innovation to solve complex challenges, data driven decision making, building strategic partnerships with stakeholders, and transforming organizations' resilience posture to mitigate cyber threats and risks.

Bheshaj has a BS in Electrical Engineering and a Sustainable Business MBA in Renewable Energy. He holds multiple certifications including CISSP, CISM and Carnegie Mellon University’s Executive CISO certificate.