Statement of Congressman John D. Dingell, Chairman
Committee on Energy and Commerce

SUBCOMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND AIR QUALITY HEARING ENTITLED
“LEGISLATIVE HEARING ON DISCUSSION DRAFTS CONCERNING ENERGY EFFICIENCY, SMART ELECTRICITY GRID, ENERGY POLICY ACT OF 2005 TITLE XVII LOAN GUARANTEES, AND STANDBY LOANS FOR COAL-TO-LIQUIDS PROJECTS”

May 24, 2007

Mr. Chairman, thank you for your diligence in pursuing energy legislation and for bringing the Subcommittee to this point in the legislative process.

Over the years, energy legislation has been a staple of this Committee's efforts, and it remains a continuing focus and challenge. Less than two years ago, Congress enacted the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which touched on matters ranging from electricity markets to oil and gas policy to renewable energy. Today, the Committee prepares to take the next step forward by holding a legislative hearing on four Discussion Drafts circulated by Chairman Boucher last week.

I want to commend the Chairman for his efforts in identifying areas that will improve our Nation's energy policy, help consumers, and buffer our country from market instability. Today's hearing will receive testimony from witnesses on the substance of the Discussion Drafts that address several of the areas in the Committee’s jurisdiction.

The Speaker has asked the committees with energy-related jurisdiction to report legislation before the Independence Day District Work Period. These four Discussion Drafts represent a solid beginning and, as Chairman Boucher has indicated, will be followed by drafts on other significant matters. Today's hearing will help Members define areas of concern and areas of potential agreement regarding energy efficiency, smart electricity grid, DOE loan guarantees and coal-to-liquids programs. This will take us one step closer toward reporting legislation built from our past work to benefit our Nation’s future.

I look forward to working with Chairman Boucher and all Members of the Committee in the coming weeks, and to the testimony of today's witnesses.