Natural resources

Senator Angus King Presses FERC Nominees on Support for Renewable Energy

Strategic Insights

Sep 3, 2025 — 1 min read

U.S. Senator Angus King questioned Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) nominees Laura Swett and David LaCerte on their commitment to cost-effective, renewable energy technologies, highlighting the significance of wind and solar energies as cheaper alternatives to fossil fuels. King emphasized the importance of batteries in stabilizing the electric grid and pressed the nominees to support renewable energy despite the administration's hostility towards it.

Key Takeaways:

Senator King pressed FERC nominees to support wind and solar energies, citing their significant cost savings and swifter development time compared to fossil fuels.
King pointed out that wind and solar are the cheapest forms of electricity generation, referencing a case study in Iowa where wind power supplies 60% of the electricity supply.
The senator emphasized the importance of batteries in stabilizing the electric grid, citing their potential to provide baseload power and enhance grid reliability.
FERC nominee Laura Swett expressed openness to exploring battery technologies for grid stabilization, while David LaCerte agreed that batteries could be an important component in increasing baseload reliability.
Senator King has been a vocal advocate for climate solutions and energy technology development, stressing the need for permitting reform and streamlining project timelines to unlock clean energy opportunities created by the Inflation Reduction Act.

Statistics:

Iowa has the 15th lowest electricity cost in the country, with average electricity prices across the country increasing by 6-10% over the past year.
In contrast, Iowa's electricity prices have decreased by 0.5% in the past year.
Wind power supplies 60% of Iowa's electricity supply.
A major solar project can be deployed online in 1-2 years, compared to 7 years for a new gas plant.

Sources:

Statement from U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME)
Testimony of Laura Swett and David LaCerte, FERC nominees
Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee

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