Moscow. 17 October 2006. Chairman of the Management Board of RAO "UES of Russia" Anatoly Chubais appointed Director General of OAO "Nurenergo" Nurdin Usamov as Advisor to the Chair. This appointment came after M. Usamov had completed the restoration works in Chechnya's energy system and ensured its stable operation.

Mr. Usamov held executive positions in the Grozenergo system from 1979. In 1992, he was appointed Grozenergo's Director General. In 1999, amid hostilities in Chechnya, he started efforts to restore the Republic's energy system together with the staff of the former Grozenergo. In 2001, Mr. Usamov was appointed Acting Director General, and then Director General of OAO "Nurenergo". Under his guidance, the energy company together with contractors succeeded in restoring power supply to practically all districts of the Chechen Republic previously destroyed by the hostilities.

For the courage and heroism he displayed in the discharge of his duties, Nurdin Usamov was awarded the title of the Hero of the Russian Federation. He was also decorated with the Order of Friendship and the Order of Courage.

Mr. Usamov's new duties will be announced in the near future, upon completion of the necessary corporate procedures.