First Solar, Inc. announced the appointment of Dennis Fitzgibbons as vice president, federal affairs. In this new position, Fitzgibbons is responsible for leading the company’s federal government affairs activities in the U.S. He will report directly to Mike Ahearn, First Solar CEO.

“We are pleased that Dennis has joined the First Solar team. He has a wealth of experience in dealing with climate change and renewable energy issues that impact the Company, and his efforts will support our mission of providing clean, affordable solar electricity,” said Ahearn.

Most recently, Fitzgibbons served as chief of staff for the Committee on Energy and Commerce in the U.S. House of Representatives. In this position, he has participated in major legislative policy debates and development relating to energy. Prior to this role, Fitzgibbons served as director of public policy for Daimler Chrysler. There he was responsible for developing, coordinating, implementing and communicating the company’s positions on major public policy issues, ensuring consistency across major markets and aligning positions within business strategies.