The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced six new appointees from the Biden-Harris Administration today. Additionally, two existing appointees have been elevated to new positions within the Department, all collaborating with U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm to advance climate and energy goals, according to a press release by DOE.

Rafael Cestero is now serving as the Special Assistant in the Office of Scheduling and Advance, while Rebecca Kasper has assumed the role of Chief of Staff for the Loan Programs Office. Lila Nojima fills the position as Attorney-Adviser in the Office of the General Counsel, and Andrea Piccardo has become Special Assistant to the White House Liaison in the Office of the Secretary. Usha Sahay works as Chief Speechwriter in the Office of Public Affairs, and Raylene Yung is now Chief of Staff in the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, said DOE.

“We are thrilled to welcome this new cohort of appointees to a team that is laser-focused on seizing the historic opportunities presented by President Biden’s clean energy laws,” said DOE Chief of Staff Christopher Davis. “Their infusion of energy, experience, and knowledge will be an asset as we continue to get more affordable, clean energy on the grid to power American homes, vehicles, and businesses.”

Julius Goldberg-Lewis was promoted as Chief of Staff in the Office of Technology Transitions, and Frances Swanson took on her new role as Special Advisor in the Office of Under Secretary for Infrastructure. The appointments are part of Biden-Harris Administration's strategy to move forward climate and energy objectives, revealed by DOE.