Energy Week

Energy Week

Weekly Column by Congressman Doc Hastings

I recently spent a week traveling in Central Washington to discuss energy - one of the most important issues affecting our nation.

Reducing our dependence on foreign oil and achieving energy independence requires a comprehensive plan. First, we must protect the dams. Second, domestic production of traditional fuels, like oil and gas must be increased. Third, tax incentives to make emerging renewable energy resources more reliable and cost competitive must be extended. Finally, we must encourage advances in conservation and energy efficiency.

Throughout the week, I participated in several meetings and tours that highlighted local efforts to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, diversify our energy system and protect the clean, low-cost hydropower that is critical to Central Washington.

I started my week-long energy tour in Ellensburg where I was briefed by local officials about ongoing efforts to protect hydropower and reduce energy rates in the Northwest. Protecting hydropower was also a focus of my tour of the Wells Project in Douglas County.

Later, I had the opportunity to tour a site near Sunnyside where the potential for natural gas is being explored. Increased exploration of domestic energy sources represents an important part of achieving energy independence, and it's exactly the kind of thing Congress sought to encourage in the bipartisan energy plan.

I was encouraged by an update at Energy Northwest's Columbia Generating Station - the only operational nuclear power production plant in the region. Our nation should embrace nuclear power production as a part of meeting our growing energy needs, and I'm pleased that this work is being accomplished right here in Central Washington.

At Ice Harbor Dam I was briefed on the latest technology being used to ensure efficient power generation and improved fish runs. Following my tour of Ice Harbor, I had the opportunity to speak to the Moses Lake Rotary about the need to guard against the continued threat of dam removal.

I also had the opportunity to get a first-hand look at some of the latest energy research being conducted at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in the Tri-Cities. PNNL is one of nine Department of Energy laboratories, and conducts research related to meeting our national energy, environmental, and security needs.

These are just a few of the meetings and tours I participated in during the week. I am impressed with the innovative work being accomplished throughout Central Washington, and I look forward to continuing to work toward an energy independent America.

http://hastings.house.gov/Read.aspx?ID=631