Gordon Introduces Alternative Energy Legislation
January 23, 2007, WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a continued effort to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and diversify the nation’s fuel supply, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon introduced legislation that would establish research and development programs to tackle infrastructure issues for the next generation of fuels.
“Our energy dependence is bad for our economic security, it’s bad for our national security, it harms our ability to create new quality jobs, and it harms our ability to maintain our competitive position in the world,” said Gordon, Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology.
“If this country is serious about reducing our dependence on foreign oil, we need to get serious about mobilizing the infrastructure necessary to distribute and dispense alternative fuels.”
Gordon’s bill, the Advanced Fuels Infrastructure Research and Development Act, directs the Department of Energy and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to research and develop new technologies and methods that would allow retailers to use alternative fuels – like E85 ethanol – in existing infrastructure, significantly reducing costs both for businesses and consumers.
The bill also addresses potential challenges in the transition to Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel, or ULSD. As ULSD moves from the refinery through pipelines, tanks, trucks and related infrastructure, there is concern that it could absorb enough residual sulfur to exceed the Environmental Protection Agency’s limit. Gordon’s bill addresses this issue by directing the Department of Energy and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to develop methods and technologies that give fuel suppliers an affordable, portable, quick and accurate way to test the sulfur content of ULSD.
“This is an area where sound science and new technologies can provide consumers with accessible fuel alternatives,” said Gordon. “We have a responsibility to make alternative fuels like E85 ethanol and biodiesel part of an aggressive and balanced energy policy that promotes conservation and efficiency while maximizing current domestic resources.”
