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FERC chair says environmental justice will remain a top priority
Summary
Asked whether environmental justice work could be de‑emphasized by a new administration, Chairman Phillips said EJ is a personal priority rooted in her upbringing and argued that addressing EJ early will avoid delays and litigation for energy projects.
When asked whether an incoming administration might de‑emphasize environmental justice, Chairman Phillips said environmental justice has been one of her top priorities and that the commission must continue to address it.
"When it comes to environmental justice ... it is one of my top priorities as chairman," Phillips said, adding she grew up "in an environmental justice community" and understands the stakes personally and professionally. She argued that attending to EJ concerns early in project planning can prevent long‑term delays and litigation: "If you want projects approved, this commission ... needs to focus on environmental justice."
Why it matters: Environmental justice considerations can affect project siting, permitting timelines and litigation risk. The chair framed EJ not as an impediment but as an integral part of durable permitting and project planning. Reporters raised whether a change in the White House might shift emphasis away from EJ; Phillips reiterated the commission's responsibility to respect and address EJ communities.
Phillips did not announce new EJ policy at the press event; she framed the priority in personal and institutional terms and described EJ work as central to effective project approvals.
