Rep. Lofgren Votes to Pass Energy Independence and Security Act

Press Release

Rep. Lofgren Votes to Pass Energy Independence and Security Act

Bill Would Increase America's Energy Independence

Washington, D.C. - Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) today voted to pass the Energy Independence and Security Act, which increases American energy independence, strengthens national security, lowers energy costs, grows our economy and creates new jobs, and reduces global warming. The Energy Independence and Security Act increases the fuel efficiency of vehicles to 35 miles per gallon by 2020. This is the first increase in the fuel economy standard by Congress since 1975 and is supported by environmental groups, labor groups and the automobile industry. This provision will save American families $700 to $1,000 per year at the pump with $22 billion in net annual consumer savings by 2020. The legislation also includes: a six-year extension of the 30% residential investment tax credit for the purchase of residential solar water heating, photovoltaic equipment, and fuel cell power systems; an eight-year extension of the 30% business investment tax credit for the purchase of fuel cell power plants, solar energy property, and fiber-optic systems used to illuminate the inside of a structure; and increases the annual residential solar investment tax credit cap from $2,000 to $4,000.

Additionally the Energy Independence and Security Act:

Makes an historic commitment to American-grown biofuels;

Requires for the first time that 15 percent of our electricity come from renewable sources;

Improves energy efficiency of a wide range of products, including appliances, lighting and buildings; and

Invests in clean, renewable and alternative energy tax incentives to build viable markets and create jobs.

"For far too long our nation has been held hostage by our energy policies," noted Rep. Zoe Lofgren. "This bill sets us down a path toward energy independence, environmental stewardship, and economic responsibility. It's estimated that the passage of this bill will save Californians over $1.3 billion on electricity and natural gas costs by the year 2020, and will reduce global warming emissions by 84-126 million metric tons per year by 2020 (equivalent to 10 million - 15 million vehicles). The 110th Congress is taking America in a new direction. This legislation is a strong step forward in our efforts to make America the world's clean alternative energy leader."

Source