President Joe Biden today appointed Willie L. Phillips, Jr. as Chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). FERC — an independent agency that regulates the interstate transmission of natural gas, oil, electricity, and other energy projects — is expected to have an important role in spurring access to reliable, affordable carbon-free energy across the country, along with helping to address the climate crisis, advance environmental justice, and fostering a clean electricity grid.

Phillips has served as a FERC Commissioner since November 17, 2021 and as Acting Chair since January 3. He previously served as chairman of the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia [DCPSC].

Prior to the DCPSC, Willie served as assistant general counsel for the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), a not-for-profit international regulatory authority charged with ensuring the security and reliability of the bulk power system in Washington, D.C.; he also worked for two law firms, where he advised clients on regulatory compliance, litigation, and policy matters.

Phillips earned his law degree from Howard University School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Montevallo.

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