Senate confirms Danly’s appointment to FERC

Many energy industry leaders are applauding the confirmation of James Danley to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as a Republican commissioner.

Danly has served as FERC’s general counsel since 2017. The Senate confirmed him as a FERC commissioner by the count of 52-40, with all Republicans and three Democrats – Sens. Joe Manchin (D-WV), Doug Jones (D-AL), and Kristen Sinema (D-AZ).

“EEI (Edison Electric Institute) and America’s electric companies thank Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and the Senate for voting to confirm Commissioner James Danly. Commissioner Danly’s experience at FERC, his deep understanding of the energy industry, and his continued dedication to public service make him an excellent addition to the other Commissioners,” EEI President Tom Kuhn said. “There are many critical issues impacting EEI member companies and their customers, including the need for FERC policy that provides regulatory certainty and that sets a return on equity for transmission projects at a level that attracts investments. This will help to ensure the reliability and security of the energy grid, as well as support the continued integration of clean generating resources.”

Danly will serve the remainder of a term that expires June 30, 2023.

“We thank the administration for nominating and the Senate for confirming James Danly to serve as FERC commissioner. INGAA congratulates Mr. Danly on his new role,” said Alex Oehler, interim president and CEO of the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America.

Danly will face critical decisions related to power reliability and the future of competitive electricity markets, Electric Power Supply Association (EPSA) President Todd Snitchler said.

“Competition among power generators has delivered lower prices and encouraged innovation while ensuring reliability and driving down carbon emissions. EPSA and our members look forward to working with James Danly to build on this success and ensure competitive electricity markets provide the best outcomes for consumers,” Snitchler said. “As competitive power suppliers build the grid of the future while collectively providing more than 150,000 MW of reliable energy today, we look forward to working with Commissioner Danly and the rest of FERC leadership to ensure that market rules allow all resources to compete to keep the lights on at the lowest cost.”

The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing on Danly’s appointment on Nov. 5, 2019, and approved his nomination on March 3. The full Senate approved his nomination on March 12.

“I congratulate Mr. Danly on his confirmation and am pleased that FERC is gaining a well-qualified member. FERC is essential to ensuring the reliability and affordability of our nation’s electric system, and I am glad we have now filled a seat that had been vacant for more than 14 months,” said U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), chair of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.