Senate Approves FERC Nominees, Boosting Renewable Energy Goals

Demonstrators against the Mountain Valley Pipeline protest at Northern Virginia Community College where gubernatorial candidates, Terry McAuliffe and Glenn Youngkin are debating each other, in

The Senate has approved two new members of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and is set to vote on a third nominee, ensuring that President Joe Biden's influence on the commission will extend beyond his first term. This move is expected to bolster the administration's efforts to promote renewable energy regardless of the election outcome in November.

FERC, a five-member commission, plays a crucial role in overseeing natural gas pipelines and energy infrastructure, including the transmission of electricity across state lines. Recently, the commission approved a rule facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power into the electric grid, aligning with Biden's ambitious goal of achieving economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions elimination by 2050.

The Senate confirmed Democrat David Rosner and Republican Lindsay See for three and four-year terms, respectively, on the commission. Additionally, the nomination of Democrat Judy Chang for a five-year term is pending approval. If Chang's nomination is successful, Democrats will hold a majority on the commission until at least June 2026.

Pending nomination of Judy Chang could shift FERC majority to Democrats.

Senate confirms Rosner and See for FERC positions.

FERC plays a vital role in overseeing energy infrastructure and promoting renewables.

Senator Joe Manchin emphasized the importance of a fully seated, bipartisan FERC in advancing sensible energy infrastructure policy. He highlighted the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the nominees, underscoring the significance of considering various interests and perspectives in decision-making.

Rosner, a former FERC staffer, was praised for his expertise in energy issues and nonpartisan approach. See, currently serving as solicitor general for West Virginia, was commended for his legal acumen. Chang, a former undersecretary of energy and climate solutions in Massachusetts, was lauded for her bipartisan experience.

Despite some opposition, the nominations of Rosner and See were approved by significant margins, reflecting bipartisan support for the nominees' qualifications and commitment to public service. The pending confirmation of Chang is expected to further solidify the commission's composition and pave the way for collaborative decision-making on critical energy issues.