September 2014
His practice focuses on renewable and conventional energy project siting and infrastructure permitting on public and private lands, land and water conservation, and climate mitigation and adaptation. Well known for his work permitting large utility-scale solar, wind, and geothermal projects, and high-voltage transmission lines on public lands, he also has extensive experience with oil and gas leasing and permitting issues, including air quality and hydraulic fracturing regulation.
“We are very pleased to have Steve as a new member of the Leadership Council because of his extensive, in-depth experience in this critical area of environmental law both in practice and behind the scenes,” said ELI President John C. Cruden. “Our council members help guide ELI toward its vision of a healthy environment, prosperous economy and vibrant community, and Steve’s efforts at Bingham are helping us further that vision.”
Steve recently served as counselor to Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, whom he advised on all aspects of energy, environmental and natural resource policy. During his time at the Department of the Interior, he led the effort to establish an enduring renewable energy program at the department, culminating in the western solar plan and other policies and programs designed to site utility scale renewable energy and transmission projects on public lands. Steve also helped develop the secretary’s new five year plan for offshore oil and gas development on the Outer Continental Shelf and led the team responsible for developing recommendations to the president for offshore drilling safety, following the Deepwater Horizon disaster.
Prior to his position at the Department of the Interior, Steve served on Interior Secretary Salazar’s Senate staff, where he was authored key provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, the Energy Title of the 2008 Farm Bill, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The ELI Leadership Council is the Institute’s group for the most prominent environment, energy, and natural resource leaders in the nation. The Council recognizes leaders for their commitment of resources and time to the Institute’s vision of a healthy environment, prosperous economies, and vibrant communities founded on the rule of law. Members participate in events and have a chance to network and engage other leaders in discussions about key environmental law and policy issues.