John Sneed departs as head of energy loan office

The head of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office (LPO) is leaving this week. John Sneed, who led the office during Donald Trump's presidency, announced his departure. His role included overseeing loans for energy projects such as nuclear power and sustainable aviation fuel plants. Sneed was re-appointed for a short term on January 20 to assist with the transition to a new administration. His initial appointment was meant to last 30 days but was extended until March 21. He plans to return to Texas to be with his family. During his time in the first Trump administration, Sneed also served as chief of staff to Energy Secretary Rick Perry. The LPO's ability to offer financial support for energy technologies significantly increased under President Joe Biden. The agency focused on advancing technologies like electric vehicles and solar power, which often struggle to get funding from private banks. In Trump's current term, the LPO has supported the Holtec Palisades nuclear plant in Michigan, which aims to become the first commercial reactor to begin operation after a shutdown. Recently, it also approved a $1.67 billion loan guarantee for a sustainable aviation fuel refinery in Montana. The Department of Energy plans to announce a new director for the LPO in the coming weeks.