WASHINGTON, DC - The Energy and Power Subcommittee, chaired by Vice Chairman Pete Olson (R-TX), today held a hearing examining the Department of Energy’s role in advancing the national, economic, and energy security of the United States. U.S. Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz testified on energy infrastructure and grid security, issues critical to the committee’s ongoing work to say #Yes2Energy.
As the American energy landscape continues to undergo remarkable changes, members examined what is being done, and what else can be done, to ensure that the United States remains a global energy leader. “We have the opportunity for jobs and affordable energy at home and aid to our allies abroad. But there is still much work to be done," said Vice Chairman Olson. “Everyone on this dais wants the same thing: an energy economy that brings economic and security benefits at home and opportunities to advance our interests abroad."
“We know that adversaries and homegrown actors are interested in the vulnerabilities of our critical infrastructures," stated Secretary Moniz in his testimony. “Challenges like these underscore the need to rethink energy security in light of modern domestic and global energy markets… The goal is to ensure that we are maximizing the prospects for rapid deployment of technologies that can contribute to securing our Nation’s energy infrastructure."
The issue of grid security was a point of emphasis for Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH), who asked the Secretary about interagency cooperation on ensuring the safety of infrastructure. Watch more HERE.
Chairman Upton discussed the strategic petroleum reserve (SPR), asking Sec. Moniz about how modernization efforts will play out. Watch their exchange HERE.
In his line of questioning, Chairman Emeritus Rep. Joe Barton (R-TX) also drilled down on the SPR, as well as the issue of bid and permitting processes for energy infrastructure projects. Watch more HERE.
“Whether by backing basic research and development to enable a technology based energy revolution, protecting the electric grid from cyber-attacks, or by tracking and responding to energy disruptions around the world, the department has an important role to play in our evolving energy marketplace," added Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) in his opening statement. “Our energy future can be a bright one - if we adopt the right policies and implement them effectively and I welcome DOE’s continued role in this effort."
