Energy policy and energy costs are critical issues for Granite State families, for our economy, our environment, our health and our future growth. We have real challenges ahead of us as we determine how to best improve energy efficiency, transition to clean, renewable energy sources, develop infrastructure to support new electric vehicle technology, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and much more. As Granite Staters, we can and we will find ways to address these issues with innovative solutions by marshalling the talent of individuals who can lead us forward.

Currently, in our state, the Public Utilities Commission (“PUC”), through its three Commissioners, plays a vital role in both implementing energy policy and determining the cost to ratepayers. Last week the Executive Council held a public hearing for Daniel Goldner who has been nominated by the Governor to serve in this important role making critical decisions about complex energy issues. The testimony at the hearing revealed that Mr. Goldner, while an accomplished businessperson, has none of the knowledge or experience needed to serve as PUC Commissioner, particularly at this critical time. In fact, his only connection to the energy industry is that his family farm in Iowa has leases with a wind turbine company for the operation of two turbines. In response to questions from Executive Councilors, Mr. Goldner repeatedly responded that, if confirmed, he would apply himself to learn about the many complex matters that come before the Commission.

When asked a question by Councilor Stevens about net metering, Mr. Goldner could not directly address the question, but rather stated that “net metering is a good thing,” and when asked what innovations he would like to see at the PUC, Mr. Goldner responded that he would “come to this role with more questions than answers.” In response to an inquiry by Councilor Kenney, Mr. Goldner responded that he has no experience in the energy market, and that he is not familiar with the history of unique energy projects in New Hampshire like Northern Pass. He also responded to Councilor Kenney that he did not know whether his personal financial interest in wind turbines would cause him to recuse himself from cases involving the siting of wind projects, a question that should certainly be addressed before the Council votes on this nomination.

I had an opportunity to speak with Mr. Goldner the week before the hearing about his thoughts on various important energy topics that come before the PUC. I specifically told Mr. Goldner that at the public hearing, I would be interested in hearing his positions about energy efficiency, distributed energy, clean transportation technology, and climate change. At the hearing, Mr. Goldner demonstrated a shocking lack of knowledge in all areas and, with respect to climate change, appeared to have no understanding of the threat it presents to our planet and our economy.

Those who testified at the hearing on Mr. Goldner’s behalf were primarily individuals who know him through his prior work in the electronic technology industry or who served with him on the Board of a private school. It is indisputable that Mr. Goldner has an impressive resume and would no doubt be a good candidate for a different role in state government. He is, however, completely unqualified to serve as a PUC Commissioner. A number of individuals testified in opposition to the nomination, including those who argued that the work of the PUC is too important for an on-the-job trainee. I agree. PUC Commissioners should have the experience, knowledge and expertise to understand the details, intricacies and competing interests of the many complex energy issues that come before the Commission and Mr. Goldner, by his own admission, does not.

It is disappointing that the Governor has once again put forth a candidate for an important position who lacks any relevant experience. Unfortunately, this is a pattern that has the net effect of undermining the work of our government agencies and consolidating power in the person of the Governor himself. The Executive Council has an important role to serve as a check on the Governor and ensure these important positions are filled with competent, qualified individuals who are committed to the mission of the agency, board or commission on which they will serve. When the Governor fails to bring forward nominees who meet that standard, I will continue to hold him accountable. Granite Staters have a right to expect the same from all of the Executive Councilors.

Executive Councilor Cinde Warmington represents District 2 on the Executive Council