Gordon Applauds New Alternative Energy Facility In Tennessee
June 26, 2007, WASHINGTON – Tennessee’s selection as a site for a new U.S. Department of Energy research facility will help with national efforts to develop domestic sources of clean, alternative energy, according to U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon
Gordon was on hand today as U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel W. Bodman announced the creation of three centers aimed at accelerating basic research in the development of biofuels. One center will be located in Tennessee and led by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory,
Gordon, chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology and a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, called the actions “evidence of how a strong federal commitment to research and development can spur economic growth and result in real solutions to the energy challenges facing our country.”
ORNL will partner with the University of Tennessee, the State of Tennessee, industry, other universities and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado. This public/private partnership will strengthen the Tennessee Biofuel Initiative and enhance the opportunity for production of transportation fuels made from plant materials in Tennessee.
The Energy Department’s announcement coincides with pending action by the House Committee on Science and Technology to strengthen U.S. bioenergy research.
“This announcement couldn’t be more well-timed,” added Chairman Gordon, whose Science and Technology Committee maintains jurisdiction over federal energy research. “New technologies will move us toward a broader use of biofuels, and those technologies will be bolstered by effective research and development.”
Gordon said the advancement of bioenergies in the U.S. has the potential to reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources, provide good jobs in local communities, present new sources of income for America’s farmers, reduce greenhouse gases and improve air quality.
“Bioenergy is an important part of this country’s energy future,” added Gordon. “Traditional fossil fuels remain a necessary part of a balanced national energy strategy, but they can no longer be our sole option.
“We have an opportunity to lead the way in bioenergy development and I’m happy the Department of Energy chose a proven program in Tennessee to complement the work being done in Congress to advance this important science. The results could very well create and grow a new energy manufacturing sector right here at home to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.”
