FRANKFORT, KY. (Oct. 6, 2025) – The following is a statement from Senate Majority Caucus Chair Robby Mills, R-Henderson, primary sponsor of 2024 Senate Bill 349, regarding the appointment of Eric King as executive director of the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission (EPIC).
“After more than a year of delays from the Governor, I am encouraged to see the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission finally move forward with the appointment of an executive director. Eric King brings nearly two decades of experience in energy policy, federal advocacy, and organizational leadership that will serve the commonwealth well as EPIC begins its work.
“When I sponsored Senate Bill 349, the goal was simple: Kentucky must have a comprehensive, long-term energy plan that ensures reliable, affordable power for our families and businesses. The General Assembly overrode the Governor’s veto because we refused to let politics in Frankfort or Washington jeopardize Kentucky’s energy security. Coal and natural gas remain critical to meeting our base load demands, even as we integrate new technologies.
“I look forward to working with Mr. King, Chair Ashli Watts, and the commission as they carry out this vital responsibility. EPIC was created to put Kentucky’s energy future first, and now it is time to deliver results.”
Senate Bill 349 established the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission (EPIC) to develop a comprehensive, long-term energy plan for the state of Kentucky. The law requires EPIC to review the state’s current and future power supply, evaluate the impacts of federal policy and severe weather events, and consider the retirement or continued operation of coal and natural gas plants. The goal is to ensure Kentucky families and businesses have access to affordable, reliable energy well into the future.
Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed the measure, and the Kentucky General Assembly overrode that veto and reaffirmed the need for Kentucky to have a proactive strategy for its energy future. Despite the law’s passage, the Governor substantially delayed appointments to the commission, which slowed its ability to begin work, according to a news release from Sen. Mills’ office.
Sen. Robby Mills, R-Henderson, represents the 4th Senate District, including Henderson, Hopkins, Union, and Webster Counties. He serves as Senate majority caucus chair and serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Families and Children; Health Services; Local Government; Natural Resources and Energy; and State Government. As a member of Senate majority leadership, he serves on the Legislative Research Commission. He also serves as co-chair of the Kentucky Housing Task Force.
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