GOP lawmakers worry about Energy Commissioner’s possible conflicts of interest.

Republican Representatives Renew Concerns About FERC Commissioner’s Alleged Conflicts of Interest

Reps. James Comer (R-Ky.) and Pat Fallon (R-Texas) have renewed their concerns about Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Commissioner Allison Clements allegedly not disclosing potential conflicts of interest.

Comer, the chairman of the House Oversight Committee, and Fallon, the chairman of the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs, have raised concerns about Clements’ connections to the green energy sector and her former employers. They argue that her position as a regulator on an independent commission necessitates transparency regarding outside group influence in policy decisions.

Clements, a Democrat and one of four FERC commissioners, reportedly briefed the Energy Foundation at her former employer’s Jan. 10 fundraiser. FERC defended the meetings, citing Clements’ “open door” policy and being “subject to ex parte restrictions.”

Concerns About Conflicts of Interest

Comer and Fallon have warned that Clements’ connections to the industry FERC regulates may violate federal laws and regulations regarding conflicts of interest and run contrary to FERC’s mandate under the Federal Power Act. They have also raised concerns about her husband’s current and previous employers, which include Copia Power, Sol Systems, Goodgrid LLC, and the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Transparency and Accountability

The Republican representatives argue that transparency and accountability are essential for FERC to fulfill its mandate and ensure that the energy sector operates fairly and efficiently. They have called on Clements to disclose any potential conflicts of interest and recuse herself from any decisions that may be influenced by her connections to the green energy sector.

Conclusion

The renewed concerns about Clements’ alleged conflicts of interest highlight the challenges facing regulators in the energy sector. As the industry continues to evolve and new technologies emerge, it is essential that regulators maintain their independence and act in the public interest. Transparency and accountability are crucial to ensuring that this happens.

• Republican Representatives James Comer and Pat Fallon have raised concerns about FERC Commissioner Allison Clements’ alleged conflicts of interest.
• Clements reportedly briefed the Energy Foundation at her former employer’s Jan. 10 fundraiser.
• Comer and Fallon have warned that Clements’ connections to the green energy sector may violate federal laws and regulations regarding conflicts of interest.
• They have called on Clements to disclose any potential conflicts of interest and recuse herself from any decisions that may be influenced by her connections to the green energy sector.
• Transparency and accountability are crucial to ensuring that regulators maintain their independence and act in the public interest.

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