Press Release

Background: The White House this afternoon announced its intention to nominate Commissioner Nora Mead Brownell as a Commissioner to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The following statement may be attributed to Commissioner Brownell:

I am deeply honored by the President's confidence and eager to address the very serious issues affecting our nation's energy markets. As a regulatory commissioner in Pennsylvania, and as President of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, I have had the opportunity to develop valuable relationships with my colleagues at the state and federal levels. Their insights and experiences have been extremely valuable as we moved to transition our energy markets. I look forward to working with Congress, with state and federal regulatory officials, as well as with industry and customer groups as we strive to resolve the energy issues now confronting us at the national level.

These issues are deeply intertwined with the economic development of our states and our nation. Preserving reliable energy sources and developing new energy technologies are essential to a vibrant economy. Our experience shows that well functioning markets can deliver these benefits to customers. The key is that the markets must function properly.

I am doubly honored to be considered along with Chairman Pat Wood of the Texas Public Service Commission. We have worked together on many issues as fellow state commissioners, including close collaboration as Texas and Pennsylvania transitioned to competitive energy markets. I am very excited to have the opportunity to continue that collaboration at the national level.