Earlier this year, Mr Eizelle created controversy by publicly opposing the Government's electricity reform platform, which led to a very public spat with the Premier Geoff Gallop and Energy Minister, Eric Ripper.

It is understood that Mr Eizelle last week became aware other board members believed Western Power could no longer oppose the Government's will and that if he did not resign, the board would force his departure. Senior Western Power employee Ninad Ninkov will act as interim chief executive.