Blogs

On February 9, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works voted to advance the nomination of Michael Regan as the Administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If confirmed, Regan would be responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of regulations that impact distribution sector emissions and permitting of natural gas infrastructure projects. Regan’s full Senate confirmation vote, as well as that of Secretary of Energy nominee Jennifer Granholm, is not expected to take place until the impeachment hearing proceedings wrap up.

The House Energy & Commerce Committee also held a hearing called Back in Action: Restoring Federal Climate Leadership. Witnesses during the hearing discussed the benefits of natural gas in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and debated the need for future investment in pipeline infrastructure. Some on the committee examined the potential of clean energy standards and carbon pricing, while others raised concerns about climate-focused Executive Orders, such as the cancellation of the Keystone XL pipeline permit. A recording of the hearing and written witness testimony are available online here.

The Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources also facilitated climate discussions last week through its Hearing to Examine Global Climate Trends and Progress in Addressing Climate Change. Witnesses, such as those representing the International Energy Agency (IEA), discussed where both the U.S. and world are with respect to climate goals and where both should be going. A recording of the hearing, in addition to witness statements, can be found online here.

For questions on this article, please contact Renée Lani of APGA staff by phone at 202-464-0836 or by email at rlani@apga.org.