President Donald Trump has named Republican Laura Swett as the new head of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the agency announced Friday.
“I am honored to serve as Chairman of FERC and grateful for President Trump’s confidence in me to advance America’s energy priorities at such a critical moment,” Swett said in a statement.
Swett was nominated by Trump in June and confirmed by the Senate on Oct. 7 to serve a term expiring June 2030. She replaces Commissioner David Rosner, a Democrat who briefly chaired FERC following the departure of Republican Mark Christie in August.
FERC currently has one open seat. Along with Swett and Rosner, it consists of Commissioner Lindsay See, a Republican, and Commissioner Judy Chang, a Democrat. Republican David LaCerte, previously in the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, was confirmed by the Senate alongside Swett this month but has not yet taken his seat at FERC.
Swett takes the helm at a time when electricity demand in the United States is rapidly rising, with open questions surrounding how to rapidly interconnect new generation and loads. Her selection drew praise from natural gas groups and generators.
“We applaud the Administration on this announcement and welcome this step to enhancing the role the United States will play in global energy markets,” Center for Liquefied Natural Gas Executive Director Charlie Riedl said in a statement.
The U.S. is the largest LNG exporter in the world, with exports totaling 11.9 billion cubic feet per day last year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. FERC is reviewing export applications, and there are more projects in the agency’s pre-filing process.
The Natural Gas Supply Association and Electric Power Supply Association also said they support Swett’s selection to lead FERC.
As artificial intelligence, electrification and industrial expansion drive demand, “market certainty and clear, consistent rules are essential to attract investment and ensure reliable, cost-effective power,” EPSA President and CEO Todd Snitchler said.
“Chair Swett understands that competitive power markets are the foundation of electric reliability, innovation, and economic growth,” Snitchler said. “Under her leadership, FERC has the opportunity to strengthen market design and unlock billions in private investment to meet record demand.”
