U.S. Senator
Member: Finance, Agriculture, Energy, Ethics and Aging Committees |
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For Immediate
Release June 19, 2007 |
CONTACT: Cody Wertz – Comm.
Director |
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DENVER, CO – Yesterday, United States Senator Ken Salazar spoke to a group of over 750 electric industry executives on issues currently facing their industry at the Edison Electric Institute’s Annual Convention, held this year in Denver, Colorado. In his speech, Senator Salazar highlighted the need for the United States to embrace a new, clean energy economy. In doing so, argued Senator Salazar, the United States will effectively strengthen National Security by eliminating our addiction to foreign oil; improve our environmental security by combating the potentially harmful effects of global warming; and increase our economic security by creating new jobs and opportunities here at home. “The world is changing. National security, economic forces and the looming threat of global warming will force us to find new sources of energy and more efficient ways to use it,” said Senator Salazar. “Those nations that develop new technologies to produce, conserve and manage energy will thrive, while those who fail to address this challenge will suffer – economically and politically. Our Nation has led the world in creating today’s energy systems; we must continue to lead in creating the energy systems of tomorrow as well.” During his speech, Senator Salazar emphasized that the need for a new energy system for America – and for the world – is driven by three key forces:
As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Salazar has played an integral role in shaping this year’s energy bill (H.R. 6, the Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007). In particular, Senator Salazar has supported amendments to increase fuel economy standards, promote production of hybrid and plug-in vehicles and establish a national goal of producing 25% of America’s energy from renewable sources with the aim of creating a new, clean energy economy that strengthens our National, economic and environmental security. “You, the leaders of the American electric power industry, will bear much of the responsibility to achieve the goals of any new energy policy,” said Senator Salazar. “You have demonstrated for more than a century that you are up to the challenge. I look forward to working with you to again demonstrate America’s leadership in providing abundant, clean and reliable electricity to our citizens and to the world.” # # #
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