BPA: Murray, Cantwell Praise Dept. of Energy Announcement that Steve Wright Will Continue to Lead BPA

Press Release

Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) praised the announcement by Secretary of Energy Steven Chu that Steve Wright will stay on in his current role as Administrator of the Bonneville Power Administration. Wright became acting Administrator in 2000 and was appointed to the position in 2002.

"I've had the pleasure of working with Steve for years and I am continually impressed by his strong leadership and commitment to the Pacific Northwest," said Senator Patty Murray. "Steve has done an outstanding job leading BPA through challenging times. And he has presided over a Power Administration that has become a true leader in integrating renewable energy into the power grid. Steve fights every day to keep power rates low for Washington state families and businesses, and I am pleased that he will have the opportunity to continue his great work for the region."

"The Bonneville Power Administration is in good hands with Steve Wright and I commend Secretary Chu for selecting him to continue on as Administrator," said Senator Maria Cantwell. "Steve first took the helm at BPA during the Western Power Crisis and led the organization through some of the most challenging times in its history. Clean and affordable electricity is the backbone of Washington state's economy, and we will need Steve's skills and experience as BPA faces a variety OF new challenges in the coming years, including the integration OF huge new wind power resources, extending the Columbia River Treaty, and ensuring adequate water supplies for salmon, agriculture, and hydropower generation needs."

From the DOE announcement today:

DOE Secretary Steven Chu said: "Steve Wright has proven to be an adept leader of an agency critical to the well being of the Pacific Northwest that is also contributing to meeting our national objectives. He is doing important work in accelerating the accomplishment of energy efficiency and looking for ways to pair hydro power with expanded renewable energy generation such as wind power. I am very excited that he has picked up the charge to do that, and he has my full confidence."

BPA Administrator Steve Wright said: "It is a great honor to be asked to stay on in what has to be one of the best jobs in the entire world, leading a talented workforce that is absolutely committed to public service. We will stay focused on the four pillars of our strategic vision: high reliability, environmental stewardship, low rates and being accountable to the public we are fortunate to serve."

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