"To compete globally, we must expand energy production, including commercial nuclear and liquefied natural gas, and cut the cost of energy." https://t.co/BwOJ2BelT4
— Fast Company (@FastCompany) January 18, 2025
At Wednesday’s hearing, Wright addressed Pennsylvania’s rich resources and its power to boost the nation’s economy.
WATCH: Chris Wright, nominee to be Secretary of Energy, opening statement. pic.twitter.com/rvqHk1J1mT
— CSPAN (@cspan) January 15, 2025
Wright is the CEO of Colorado-based Liberty Energy, a large fracking company. He focused on Pennsylvania’s liquefied natural gas and nuclear power during the hearing, citing its potential to benefit national security and the artificial intelligence industry.
Wright addressed Pennsylvania’s newest senator, Dave McCormick, during the hearing. He said that it would be “hugely beneficial to Pennsylvania and to our country to have an LNG export terminal on the Pennsylvania coast near Philly.”
The Biden Administration temporarily paused new approvals of LNG export facilities.
The hearing showcased Wright’s goal to boost American energy during his potential tenure as energy secretary in the Trump Administration.
“The road to energy dominance goes through Pennsylvania,” said Senator McCormick. He added that the East Coast is at a disadvantage compared to the Gulf Coast in terms of LNG export capacity, saying, “a big problem for getting Pennsylvania energy production to other parts of the country and allies around the world.”
Wright said, “the more energy infrastructure we have in this country, the better for America, the better for Americans, the better for Pennsylvania.” He told lawmakers that natural gas in Pennsylvania was one of the biggest drivers of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which “on a per capita basis were lower last year than any year since I was born [60 years ago].”
“Fossil fuels have powered the world throughout my lifetime,” Wright said. He noted that they have become less popular, saying, “I don’t share those aversions. I’m all about new technology to improve energy resources across the board, including hydrocarbon energy as well.”
He said he was “all-in” on supporting Senator McCormick’s effort to gain insight and boost investment from energy firms looking to tap Pennsylvania’s resources to advance AI industries.
Senator McCormick referenced Microsoft’s agreement with Constellation Energy, which owns Three Mile Island Unit 1 south of Harrisburg, to restart the shuttered nuclear plant and boost capacity for AI.
Senator McCormick said he plans to put together a Pennsylvania energy and innovation summit later this year “to bring together the energy sector, leading AI companies, huge sources of capital, global investors to deliver on President Trump’s vision to unleash American energy and technological leadership.” Wright supported McCormick in his goal to host the summit.
