05.24.12

Hoeven: Tony Clark Confirmed for FERC Appointment

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that North Dakota Public Service Commissioner Tony Clark has been confirmed by unanimous consent in the U.S. Senate to serve on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Hoeven has been working to secure and gain approval for Clark’s nomination.

 

“I’m pleased the Senate has confirmed the nomination of Tony Clark to the FERC,” Hoeven said. “As a result of his work in North Dakota and as a leader of a national energy regulatory organization, Tony understands the complexities of the industry and the needs of the American people and the American economy for reliable energy. He’s the right person at the right time for the job, and will provide invaluable insights and expertise to the FERC.”          

 

In March, Hoeven introduced Clark at U.S. Senate Energy Committee hearing and said his work as a North Dakota Public Service Commissioner and as chair of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) provides the necessary background for service on the FERC.  The FERC is an independent agency responsible for regulating the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas and oil.

 

While serving as governor, Hoeven worked closely with Clark. As senator, Hoeven recommended him to Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, who nominated Clark for the Administration’s consideration. The Administration submitted Clark’s nomination for the FERC position in January.

Clark was elected to his position with the North Dakota Public Service Commission in 2000, and re-elected in 2006. As commissioner, Clark has been active in state and regional efforts to develop North Dakota’s energy exporting potential and provide affordable, reliable energy to consumers. From November 2010 to November 2011, Clark served a one-year term as president of the NARUC, where he led the association on matters important to the regulatory community and utility consumers while working with state and federal lawmakers and key stakeholders. Before his work as North Dakota’s public service commissioner, Clark served in the state legislature for four years. He holds a bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University in Fargo, and a master’s degree from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.