SEEC Welcomes New Co-Chairs, Vice Chair

WASHINGTON, D.C.—This week, The House Sustainable Energy and the Environment Coalition announced the election of Reps. Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) and Gerald Connolly (D-Va.) to the positions of Co-Chair, and Rep. Doris Matsui (D-Calif.) to the position of Vice Chair.

Trained as an engineer, and as the former President and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, Rep. Tonko brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his position as Co-Chair. His knowledge of issues ranging from generation to transmission and distribution to energy efficiency as a fuel of choice guide his decision-making. Rep. Tonko’s history of leadership on these issues includes his legislation to fund and efficiently develop wind energy, to promoting high efficiency turbines to cogeneration. He currently serves on both the Natural Resources Committee, and the Science, Space and Technology Committee.

Rep. Connolly is a strong advocate for reducing the nation’s dependence on foreign oil and promoting domestic, renewable energy sources and mass transit. During his tenure in local government, Rep. Connolly led the nationally-recognized re-planning of the National Capital Region’s premier commercial center. He brings considerable experience on the national security implications of energy production and the expansion of a clean energy economy. He serves on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and the Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Rep. Matsui has a demonstrated record of supporting renewable energy innovation and development. Also a member of the powerful House Committee on Energy and Commerce, her understanding of high tech industries and issues will be an asset to the Coalition. Rep. Matsui has been a leader on spurring clean technology advancements in the United States and strengthening American clean energy manufacturing.

As new leaders of SEEC, these members will join current Co-Founder and Co-Chair Steve Israel (D-N.Y.) and Vice Chairs Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Rush Holt (D-N.J.) and Jared Polis (D-Colo.) in the effort to stand up for clean air and water protections for American families, end wasteful Big Oil subsidies and foster growth in the clean energy jobs sector. In 2011, SEEC members spoke out against legislative efforts by the most anti-environmental House of Representatives ever. In 2011, the House voted on nearly 200 anti-environmental initiatives, a rate of more than one anti-environment vote for every day the House was in session.