ARLINGTON, Va. – National Rural Electric Cooperative Association CEO Jim Matheson today issued the following statement on the confirmation of Chris Wright to lead the U.S. Department of Energy.
“Chris Wright’s extensive experience and leadership in the energy industry make him well-suited to lead DOE and address the many challenges and opportunities facing the nation, particularly the skyrocketing demand for power,” Matheson said. “Now more than ever, America’s economic growth and national security depend on reliable, abundant, and affordable electricity.
“We look forward to working with Mr. Wright to prioritize programs that help keep the lights on for families and businesses across America. We also look forward to working with Mr. Wright and DOE to make effective and efficient use of the remaining infrastructure funding appropriated by Congress that supports investments in electric infrastructure and helps co-ops harden their systems.”
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association is the national trade association representing nearly 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape. As local businesses built by the consumers they serve, electric cooperatives have meaningful ties to rural America and invest $15 billion annually in their communities.
-###-