WASHINGTON — Former Texas Governor Rick Perry was sworn in as the 14th Secretary of the United States Department of Energy (DOE) on March 2.

“It is an honor and privilege to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Energy. As secretary, I will advocate and promote American energy in all forms. America has been blessed with vast natural resources and the technology to utilize them. I am committed to helping provide stable, reliable, affordable, and secure sources of American energy. An America-first energy strategy is important to create jobs and grow the economy.

“I am also committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent while reducing the threat of nuclear proliferation. We will also continue the important mission of carrying out the environmental clean-up from the Cold War nuclear mission,” said Perry.

During Perry’s 14 years as governor, he proved economic growth and increased energy production can be accomplished alongside caring for the environment. During his tenure, Texas created 2.2 million jobs and led the nation in energy production — not just in oil and gas, but also in wind energy. Texas now produces more wind energy than all but six countries in the world.

Under his leadership, Texas reduced its carbon footprint by 17 percent, sulfur dioxide by 56 percent, and nitrogen oxide by 66 percent. Despite having a rapidly growing population and one of the largest petrochemical refining industries in the world, Texas saw its air quality improve.

Perry brings the executive experience and management skills honed during his time as governor to the leadership of the DOE.

Perry is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He married his childhood sweetheart, Anita, in 1982. They have two children and two granddaughters.

Pubication date: 4/10/217

Want more HVAC industry news and information? Join The NEWS on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn today!