The Denver Business Journal has named Partner Ken Salazar one of the most important leaders in Colorado's energy industry. The publication, as part of its annual Who's Who in Energy awards, recognizes leaders from a variety of industries including accounting, finance, law, oil and gas, utilities, midstream and education.

“The Denver Business Journal has made a terrific selection—Secretary Salazar is one of the most influential and accomplished professionals in the history of Colorado, particularly within the energy industry,” said Andy Spielman, co-partner-in-charge of WilmerHale's Denver office and chair of the firm's Energy, Environment and Natural Resources (EENR) Practice. “More than almost anyone, Ken has helped shape Colorado's energy economy as a member of both the private and public sectors.”

As a member of the public sector, Salazar has represented the energy interests of Coloradans while serving as executive director of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, Colorado Attorney General, US Senator and Secretary of the Interior. As Secretary, Salazar helped lead US energy efforts in developing and implementing President Obama's “all of the above” energy strategy, which included overseeing the development of conventional and renewable energy resources. He also led the effort to permit more than 11,000 MW of power on public lands from solar, wind and geothermal sources (the equivalent of power from 30 regular power plants).

Today, Salazar continues to influence Colorado's energy economy through his work with some of the most significant energy companies in Colorado and across the US. In WilmerHale's EENR Practice, he advises major national and Colorado-based energy clients on issues they face in the environment and natural resources space.