Welcome to the EEC
The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet serves the public by enforcing laws relating to natural resources and the environment. It keeps citizens safe and healthy, while supporting a positive business climate. Within the EEC are two main departments and several offices, including:
- The Department for Environmental Protection protects and enhances Kentucky's environment through its divisions of Air Quality, Waste Management, Water, Enforcement and Compliance Assistance.
- The Department for Natural Resources provides technical assistance, education and funding to sustain Kentucky's natural resources. It is home to the divisions of Abandoned Mine Lands, Forestry, Mine Permits, Conservation, Oil & Gas, Mine Safety and Mine Reclamation.
- The Office of Energy Policy brings a common-sense approach that ensures the Commonwealth thrives amid rapid changes occurring in the production, delivery, and use of energy.
- The Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves works to protect the Commonwealth’s natural heritage and educate Kentuckians about its importance.
The Kentucky Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection (DNREP) was established in
1979 by Gov. John Y. Brown as a response to the rising environmental concerns that emerged in post-oil
crisis America. By 1982, the agency was elevated to cabinet status and renamed the Natural Resources
and Environmental Protection Cabinet.
In 2008, Gov. Steve Beshear disbanded the cabinet, which was then known as the Environmental Public
Protection Cabinet (EPPC) after its merger with the Labor and Public Protection Cabinet. He reformed it and
renamed it the Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) under Executive Order 2008-0531.