Washington, DC - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced that Carl O. Bauer is retiring from federal service and leaving the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) effective February 28, 2010, following a distinguished four-year tenure as the laboratory's director, completing an impressive federal civilian and military career.

"With his extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, Carl Bauer has been a strong and effective energy leader," said Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy Dr. James Markowsky. "He fully understands the need to balance energy security, economic prosperity, and environmental protection, and he has brought this perspective to all of the laboratory's work. His knowledge, intellect, insight, and work ethic have been considerable assets to NETL and the Office of Fossil Energy."

Bauer was appointed NETL Director in August 2005 after serving as NETL Deputy Director, Director of NETL's Office of Coal and Environmental Systems, and Director of NETL's Office of Product Management for Environmental Management. Under his leadership, the laboratory expanded its international outreach and collaboration, strengthened its role as the key national laboratory addressing the challenges of producing and using fossil energy, and extended its expertise into new areas of investigation, such as electricity delivery and more energy-efficient buildings, appliances, and vehicles.

In 2007, Bauer received the prestigious Laboratory Director of the Year award from the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer and was the sole recipient of the Washington Coal Club's Annual Achievement Award for significant leadership and contributions in the energy arena.

Bauer will continue as NETL Director until December 31, 2009, at which time he will be detailed to the U.S. DOE's Office of Fossil Energy headquarters in Washington, D.C., where he will advise on strategic planning. Dr. Anthony Cugini, current Director of NETL's Office of Research and Development, will serve as Acting Director effective January 1, 2010.

A national search is being initiated to find Bauer's replacement as NETL Director.

 

<p>FECommunications@hq.doe.gov</p><p>&nbsp;</p>