January 2, 2009
Energy Independence
Today, more than half of America’s oil is imported from overseas. Senator Wyden understands the importance of creating a long-term comprehensive national energy policy that reduces our nation's dependence on foreign oil, invests in cleaner, renewable energy and increases energy efficiency.
In 2005, Senator Wyden helped lead several efforts during the energy debate to promote alternative energy sources and increase fuel efficiency standards. As a conferee on the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (H.R. 6), he offered an amendment to reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign oil by increasing automobile fuel economy standards by one mile per gallon each year for five years beginning in 2008. The Energy bill conference, though, rejected his proposal. Senator Wyden eventually voted against the final bill because it did very little to increase fuel efficiency, promote alternative energy sources or reduce America's dependence on foreign oil.
On October 3, 2005, Senator Wyden cosigned a letter sent to President Bush, demanding that the federal government lead the way in making a serious, long-term commitment to curbing America's dependence on oil. As the nation's largest energy consumer, the federal government can demonstrate a serious federal commitment to improving the nation's energy security by setting an example for the rest of the country to follow. For instance, the President could immediately require federal agencies to implement a Clinton-era Executive Order, which established a five-year, 20 percent petroleum savings goal.
Working with Senator Bob Bennett, Senator Wyden authored the Oil Independence, Limiting Subsidies and Accelerating Vehicle Efficiency (OILSAVE) Act. This legislation, which was introduced in 2006, would give consumers tax credits for buying cars or light trucks that have gas mileages of 25 percent or more above the Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency level set by the Federal Government.
During Senate debate on HR 6, the Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007, Senator Wyden advocated for a measure that would improve vehicle efficiency through increased CAFE standards. He also supported measures to create a greenhouse gas inventory and to establish a nationwide Renewable Portfolio Standard.
Senator Wyden supports the development of biofuels, such as ethanol made from wheat straw, wood chips, and other biomass, and biodiesel. These fuels provide additional sources of supply to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil and produce fewer greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.
Securing America's energy future is among the biggest economic and national security challenges faced by the nation. If the United States is serious in its efforts to achieve the goal of American energy independence, it must develop a balanced, long-term plan that provides incentives to encourage energy conservation, increases energy efficiency, and further develops alternative forms of energy. As a member of the Senate Energy Committee, Senator Wyden continues to work on the development of a serious and sustainable national strategy that will benefit Oregonians and all Americans for the 21st Century.