Clay Sell is the Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of the United States Department of Energy.

The Department of Energy is responsible for advancing the Nation’s energy security and national security through strong policy development and implementation, scientific and technological advancement, and commercialization of advanced energy technologies.  The Department is an organization of 115,000 people spread across 17 national laboratories, a special weapons production complex, four federal utilities, and many ongoing major environmental remediation projects.  Its annual budget exceeds $24 billion.

Mr. Sell was sworn into his current position on March 21, 2005, after being unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate.  Previously, Mr. Sell worked at the White House as a Special Assistant to President George W. Bush, serving on the staff of the National Economic Council and in the Office of Legislative Affairs.  While at the White House, Mr. Sell coordinated the development and implementation of the Administration’s energy policy.

Prior to his service at the White House, Mr. Sell held senior staff positions with the Committee on Appropriations in the United States Senate and with Congressman Mac Thornberry of Texas.

Mr. Sell received his bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and his J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law.