Moniz installed as DOE chief

The US Senate has confirmed MIT physics professor Ernest Moniz as  Barack Obama’s new Energy Secretary, replacing outgoing Secretary Stephen Chu.

President Barack Obama congratulated Moniz on his successful confirmation hearing, where the Senate voted unanimously, 97-0, to approve Moniz.

“Dr. Moniz is a world-class scientist with expertise in a range of energy sources and a leader with a proven record of bringing prominent thinkers and innovators together to advance new energy solutions. He also shares my conviction that the United States must lead the world in developing more sustainable sources of energy that create new jobs and new industries, and in responding to the threat of global climate change," Obama said.

“I am thrilled that [Moniz] is joining my team, and I look forward to his counsel on these issues as my administration continues to increase our nation’s energy security, strengthen our nuclear security, develop the next-generation of clean energy technologies, and compete for the jobs of the 21st century.”

Ranking member of the US Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) also praised Moniz’s credentials.

“My colleague from Oregon [Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR)] described (Moniz) as solution-oriented, and I think that is a very apt description. He is an impressive nominee,” she said.

Moniz’s past oil and gas experience stood out to API president Jack Gerard, who similiarly praised Moniz’s confirmation.

 “We congratulate Secretary Moniz on his confirmation. His vast energy experience in oil and natural gas has prepared him well to lead the department at this historic time,” Gerard said. “We look forward to working with the secretary and urge him to quickly approve LNG export applications that would mean more jobs and growth and an improved balance of trade. If we allow natural gas producers to export natural gas, American workers and our nation’s economy will be better off.”

Prior to Obama selecting Moniz for his cabinet, Moniz previously served as undersecretary at the Department of Energy during President Bill Clinton’s administration. He is director of the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI) and is currently a professor of physics and engineering systems at the school, where he has taught since 1973.