Representative Driehaus And Duke Energy President Discuss Impact Of American Clean Energy And Security Act

Press Release

Representative Steve Driehaus was joined today by Julie S. Janson, President of Duke Energy Ohio and Duke Energy Kentucky, to discuss the impact of the American Clean Energy and Security Act on job creation and greater Cincinnati's economy through the development of new clean energy technologies. Driehaus and Janson underscored that the legislation will encourage significant investments that will strengthen Ohio's manufacturing sector while protecting consumers in the First District.

"I'm pleased to join with Duke Energy to support the American Clean Energy and Security Act, and I applaud their commitment to developing clean energy technologies while protecting customers across greater Cincinnati. Promoting clean energy means investing in America's economy and security, and companies such as Duke will help put Ohio at the forefront of research and manufacturing. At the same time, we have taken steps to ensure that ratepayers in Ohio aren't unduly burdened as we cut emissions and transition to clean energy," said Rep. Driehaus.

"Duke Energy thanks Congressman Driehaus for helping to pass a fair and reasonable climate change bill in the House of Representatives. This bill protects the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions under a cap-and-trade plan, with electric price impacts that will be much lower than some of the other plans presented to Congress," said Ms. Janson.

The American Clean Energy and Security Act will create jobs and stimulate the economy through investments in new clean energy technologies and energy efficiency, including renewable energy sources, carbon capture and sequestration technology, electric vehicles, and scientific research and development. The bill will mandate new energy-saving standards for buildings and appliances. The bill will require electric utilities to meet 20 percent of electricity demand through renewable energy sources and efficiency practices by 2020, the result of which will reduce American demand for imported oil. The bill also takes steps to combat climate change, by reducing domestic carbon emissions by 17 percent by 2020 and more than 80 percent by 2050, compared to 2005 levels.

Representative Driehaus joined other Midwestern Democrats in fighting to ensure that the provisions of the legislation will not disproportionately affect ratepayers in areas of the country reliant on coal power. Rep. Driehaus chose to support the legislation after the original legislation was modified to prevent cost spikes and protect consumers in southwest Ohio.

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