We need to find more American energy,
and use less. This means developing more
of America's own energy resources, including wind, solar, clean coal, biofuels,
nuclear energy, as well as oil and natural gas -- which will reduce our
dependence on Middle Eastern oil and create thousands of jobs here at
home. A balanced energy policy which
both finds more, and uses less will strengthen our economy, protect our
environment, and enhance our national security.
Coal especially is a vital
part of Kentucky’s economy and history. With over half of our nation’s
electricity coming from coal, this industry must remain a key component of our nation’s energy
strategy. Preserving our environment is
an important responsibility, and we must do so in a sensible manner than does
not harm our economy or raise prices on working families.
I
was encouraged by President Obama's calls for the construction of more nuclear
power plants, as well as for increased
offshore exploration of oil and natural gas, and the further development of clean coal
technologies. These are all critical components of any commitment to
maintain both a healthy economy and a healthy environment.