Goshen, NY – Standing with Orange County Executive Edward Diana and County Legislator Chris Eachus today, U.S. Rep. John Hall (D-Dover) announced that more than 100,000 new clean energy jobs are expected to be created by major comprehensive energy legislation recently passed by Congress. The American Clean Energy and Security Act (H.R. 2454) will help revitalize America's economy by creating millions of new jobs, increase our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and preserve our environment. Diana announced Orange County's plans to upgrade the energy efficiency of the County government buildings.

 

"The bill provides states with funds to invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency technology, and to support programs that provide funds to local communities to make energy efficiency upgrades to their facilities, like the work being done here at the Orange County Office Building and throughout Orange County," said Congressman Hall. "These investments will save the County money, lowering property tax burden AND creating jobs.  It's a win-win."

 

The American Clean Energy and Security Act promotes all forms of American clean energy, including wind, solar, geothermal, and biomass. It also will significantly reduce dangerous pollution by limiting emissions from electric utilities, oil refineries, and other major sources.

Orange County Legislator Chris Eachus said, "The recent passage of the energy bill by our United States Congress with undying support from Congressman John Hall, and the implementation of this bill in Orange County is a perfect example of the many levels of government working together to benefit the residents of New York State.  The creation of 100,000 new local jobs in the alternative energy fields and the reduction of our carbon footprints will benefit us instantly and long into the future.  Orange County Government and our County Executive are taking far-reaching steps to lead by example and provide opportunities to all Orange County residents with the many positives that this bill brings to our area.  Thank you to Congressman Hall and County Executive Diana for your progressive thoughts and actions."

 

"The County would like to thank Congressman Hall and his office for their assistance in helping us to obtain this funding. We anticipate these funds leveraged with NYSERDA incentive programs will actually allow us to provide for over 7 million dollars in comprehensive energy efficiencies and conservation programs across our County infrastructure. Some of these programs will include updates to the Orange County Government Center, the Correctional Facility and Valley View," Orange County Executive Edward Diana said. 

 

This bill is the same type of market-based American solution that was successfully put into place to fight acid rain with the bipartisan Clean Air Act in 1990. That legislation led to a 10 percent decrease in electricity rates and 16 million new jobs.

 

"Americans are the people that put a man on the moon," said Hall. "I firmly believe that we as a nation possess the creativity, the innovation and the drive to lead the world in a new clean energy economy. The American Clean Energy and Security Act is going to be the first step to creating this American-made clean energy technology. This landmark legislation will eliminate the need to buy millions of barrels of oil from foreign dictators and give us, our children, and our grandkids a chance at living in a healthy and safe environment. This bill will help stop the flow of U.S. gas dollars to the Middle East, and invest in a diverse, comprehensive American energy portfolio."

 

With a combination of price spike protections, energy refunds and cost-saving technology, this bill will protect consumers, keep costs low, and protect current jobs by helping energy-intensive industries transition to a cleaner, more profitable future. According to the EPA, the legislation would cost a typical American household less than a postage stamp per day (44 cents), or less than $111 a year. Lower income households will see no new costs; in fact the Congressional Budget Office found that they would actually save $40 per year with the plan. This legislation will not increase the deficit.

 

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