Achieving Energy Independence

Energy policy impacts our national security, the strength of our economy and the health of our planet.  One need only look at how soaring gas prices that are hurting American families; or how our addiction to Middle East oil has threatened our national security; or how the increased consumption of fossil fuels have contributed to global warming.

It is time for a new energy policy, one that is capable of guiding our nation through these challenges that face us as we enter the 21st century.

It is not unrealistic for our federal government to promote a national goal of energy independence.  We can do so through more aggressive conservation, the expansion of renewable fuels such as bio-diesel and ethanol, and the widespread use of clean energy technologies such as wind, solar and ocean energy. 

Emerging technology can make our cars, homes, and businesses far more energy efficient.  Advances in technology mean we now have the ability to create new domestic energy sources like ethanol, from the Mid-West instead of depending on oil from Middle East.  Scientists have now found new ways to develop cost-effective wind and ocean energy technologies. 

Taking advantage of these opportunities is a boost to our economy and will help create thousands of new jobs.  Here in Massachusetts, we have the scientific expertise, the talented labor force, the venture capital and the natural resources to make our region an international leader in renewable and ocean energy technology.

But is is important that we act now ….both in Washington and here at home.  Here is how we can do it.  

I have been working in Congress on a package of legislative proposals that would move our country on a path towards energy independence.  I have been working in the Congress to advance these proposals. 

As always, I invite your comments.

                                                             THINKING GLOBALLY…..

BIOFUELS Act – I am a cosponsor of HR 5372 is a comprehensive alternative energy bill that would:  

• Dramatically increase the number of flex fuel vehicles on the road
• Expand the number of ethanol and biodiesel pumps at the country’s gas stations
• Fund research and development into cutting-edge technologies for biofuels

      Text of legislation  -- HR 5372

New Apollo Act - I am an original cosponsor of H.R. 2828, the New Apollo Energy Act of 2005.  Introduced by Congressman Jay Inslee, the New Apollo Energy Act bill will make sure that the United States leads the world in developing and manufacturing next generation energy technologies.  The New Apollo Energy Act of 2005 would:

• Provide $49 billion in government loan guarantees for the construction of clean-energy generation facilities
• Provide $11.5 billion in tax credits for the automotive and aerospace industries to develop new fuel efficient automobiles and planes, retool existing plants, and construct new plants to manufacture energy efficient vehicles
• Combat Global Warming through caps on greenhouse gas emissions and $7 billion in loan guarantees for the development of clean coal power plants

Text of Legislation - H.R. 2828

Boehlert – Markey CAFE Standards Amendment - I have been a consistent supporter of the Boehlert-Markey Amendment on Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards.  The Amendment mandates an increase in the average fuel economy of cars and light trucks to 33 miles per gallon by 2016 from 23 miles per gallon today.  Raising fuel economy standards is the single most important step the Congress can take to reduce the US ‘addiction to oil’ in the short run.

Offshore Renewable Energy:  In August 2005, the Congress authorized the use of our oceans for a number of renewable energy technologies, such as wind, wave and tidal energy.  The program is similar to one that I authored in 2002.  Standards are now being developed by the Minerals Management Service.

 …. ACTING LOCALLY

The Town of Hull is a national model for energy independence.  Recently, I participated in the dedication ceremony for its newest wind turbine, the Hull Wind 2.  While this new turbine will provide power for nearly 750 homes, the Town is now developing plans to build an offshore wind farm that will help the town achieve energy independence.    Click here to read more about Hull’s wind energy initiative.

Given the important role our communities must play in building consensus for coastal energy projects, I am promoting the creation of  Ocean Energy Research and Development Zones in federal and state waters to capitalize on the growing interest among local communities and companies to develop offshore renewable energy.   Click here to read more and excerpts of letter I sent to the US Energy Secretary supporting the idea.

We are currently working with the Cape Cod National Seashore and local communities to establish a “Renewable Fuels Partnership” to boost demand for renewable fuels and create incentives for suppliers and distributors. 

______________________________________________________

Going Green saves Greenbacks

Conservation remains the best way to gain control over our energy consumption.  During previous periods of dramatic price increases in oil, the United States became a drastically more efficient energy consumer.  Here’s a few links that can help make you cut some of your energy costs in your home or office