Eva Teig Hardy has stepped down, effective today, from her responsibilities as head of public policy & corporate communications for Dominion. As the brains behind the energy giant's highly effective lobbying efforts, Hardy was one of the highest ranking and most visible female executives in Richmond.

Joining Dominion in 1990 as vice president-government affairs for Dominion Virginia Power, Hardy later added corporate communications to her portfolio of responsibilities. In 1999 she took charge of communications and government affairs for the parent company, and then, in 2006, was elevated to the position of executive vice president.

"After a distinguished career in the public sector, Eva's considerable skills in government and community affairs have helped make Dominion the outstanding company it is today," said Thomas F. Farrell II in a prepared statement. "Her expertise will be sorely missed, and we wish her all the best in retirement."

Hardy is being replaced by Robert M. Blue, previously the vice president-state & federal Affairs, who reports directly to Farrell.

Bacon's bottom line: Hardy quarterbacked the re-regulation of Virginia's electric power industry last year on terms highly advantageous to Dominion. A secretary of health and human resources during the Baliles administration, she was a fixture at the General Assembly, stalking the halls of the legislature, haunting the back of the chamber during legislative hearings, and lassoing votes. If there is any justice in corporate America, Farrell gave her a lot more than a gold watch and best wishes at her retirement party. Every time Dominion shareholders cash a Dominion dividend check for years to come, they should give silent thanks to Hardy.