Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Bill Glahn as the new Director of the Minnesota Office of Energy Security and Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Commerce. Glahn, who succeeds Edward Garvey, will begin work on Tuesday, September 2, 2008.

“Bill Glahn brings a tremendous amount of experience and expertise in energy supply, markets and regulatory structure,” Governor Pawlenty said. “He will ensure that our administration’s commitment to a clean and renewable energy future will be implemented in ways that keep energy costs affordable and supplies reliable.”

Glahn is currently the principal and founder of Piedmont Consulting, an energy management consulting firm working on behalf of local governments, large energy users, universities and consumer advocates. Previously, Glahn served as Vice President and Controller for the Minnesota Municipal Power Agency. In these roles, he has frequently provided expert testimony to public utility commissions in Minnesota, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois.

“Governor Pawlenty has put Minnesota on the map with an energy policy that promotes renewables and energy security,” said Glahn. “I am honored to join his energy policy team and look forward to continuing our nation leading role.”

Glahn received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from the University of Virginia in 1989 and his Masters of Business Administration from UVA in 1995.

The Minnesota Office of Energy Security was created within the Minnesota Department of Commerce by Governor Pawlenty’s executive order in January of 2008. The office coordinates energy and climate issues throughout the administration, allowing the public easier access to energy information and technical assistance.