Issue Position: Energy & Environment

Issue Position

America needs a balanced, all-of-the-above energy plan which includes investing in clean energy sources. This means we must work to develop a comprehensive plan to responsibly produce and maximize traditional oil and gas resources and further develop alternative energy like wind, solar, biofuels, geothermal, and other renewable energy sources. I support investments like the Wind Production Tax Credit (PTC) and other measures that will increase energy efficiency across the energy spectrum.

Colorado and the 7th Congressional District hold the key to changing the way we power this nation. We have the finest renewable energy research laboratory in the world -- the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) -- located here in Golden.

This is one of many organizations contributing to a robust renewable energy research environment that has helped Colorado attract and create thousands of good-paying jobs here in our district and state. American-made wind turbines, solar panels and homegrown next-generation biofuels will create the jobs of the future by harnessing the power of our research institutions and the American entrepreneurial spirit. Research and development of energy efficient technologies need to be prioritized in all facets of our economy.

As Co-chair of the New Democrat Coalition Energy Taskforce, I believe we must fight to close the gap between energy demand and supply through increased domestic production and ambitious conservation efforts. We must create an academic and economic environment to support renewable energy sources and ensure these new technologies and resources are able to thrive and compete.

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