The scope of the subcommittee includes such issues as climate change and renewable energy. Senator Cantwell intends to focus much of the subcommittee’s efforts on advancing clean energy initiatives. According to a news release from the Senator’s office, “Renewable energy, smart grid technologies, research at national labs, energy market regulation and nuclear waste cleanup are among my top priorities as the new chairwoman of the Energy Subcommittee. Transitioning to a clean energy system is a key component of our economic recovery, and I am anxious to continue working with members of the Energy Subcommittee and green energy technology leaders to move America toward this new clean energy future.”