EEI President & CEO Dan Brouillette Steps Down to Tackle Global Energy Challenges
Dan Brouillette, the President & CEO of Edison Electric Institute (EEI), announced his departure from the organization, citing the pressing need to address complex global energy challenges. In a statement released on October 28, 2024, Mr. Brouillette emphasized the critical juncture the world faces, with events like Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Iran’s actions against Israel, and China’s increasing assertiveness highlighting the intricate energy and security issues at play.
Brouillette, known for his extensive experience in the private sector, Congress, and the Executive Branch, has dedicated his career to promoting American energy independence. He highlighted his accomplishments during his tenure as both Deputy Secretary and Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy, including the United States becoming a net energy exporter for the first time in generations. He also pointed to the nation’s reawakened nuclear enrichment capabilities, advancements in supercomputing, and stabilization of oil markets during a global pandemic.
However, Brouillette believes the current global energy landscape necessitates a broader approach. He stated that the evolving regulatory, legislative, and judicial landscapes within the U.S. are challenging the very creativity that has defined American energy leadership. The current geopolitical landscape, he argues, requires a shift in focus to prevent an ‘age of innovation’ from becoming an ‘age of limitation.’
Brouillette’s decision reflects his commitment to engaging directly with world business and policy leaders to address these existential challenges. He will continue his work with the KBH Energy Institute at the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business and the Tulane Energy Institute at the Freeman School of Business in New Orleans, aiming to solidify America’s position as a reliable provider of abundant, affordable, and clean energy, thereby contributing to global stability and progress.
While stepping down as CEO, Brouillette will continue to serve as Senior Advisor to the EEI Board through the end of 2025. He expressed gratitude to America’s electric utilities for their unwavering commitment to national energy security, highlighting their contributions to innovation and resilience that have powered homes, businesses, and the future of the nation.
EEI’s Board of Directors will initiate a comprehensive national search for a permanent replacement. The organization will be led by interim President & CEO Pat Vincent-Collawn during the search. EEI represents all U.S. investor-owned electric companies, serving nearly 250 million Americans across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The electric power industry supports over 7 million jobs throughout the United States. EEI also boasts international membership, encompassing over 70 electric companies operating in more than 90 countries.
