Joe Biden selects former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to lead Energy Department, reports say
make clean energy a priority in his administration including efforts to increase fuel efficiency standards for cars and light trucks.
Much of the department’s focus involves development of cutting-edge fuel sources that could play an important role in Biden’s pledge to address climate change by reducing carbon emissions produced by coal, oil and gas.
The department also regulates the minimum energy efficiency of light bulbs and appliances, such as washers and dryers – everyday consumer items that collectively contribute to the carbon footprint that has added to the planet’s warming temperatures.
Since she left the governor’s mansion, Granholm has been involved in several initiatives focused on transforming the nation’s energy industry from one focused on fossil fuels to one expanding renewable sources, such as wind and solar.
She founded the American Jobs Project, a 30-state multi-university research project focused on advanced manufacturing jobs in clean energy.
Granholm was also on President Barack Obama’s shortlist to replace retiring Justice John Paul Stevens in 2010.
Janet Yellen for Treasury Secretary and Marcia Fudge for the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
POLITICO first reported the selection of Granholm.