Issue Position: Energy

Issue Position

"It's no wonder people are up in arms about high gas and home heating costs while America remains addicted to oil and energy companies reap record profits. We need to set our country on a path to a clean and renewable energy future, enhancing our security, providing our economy with a new engine for growth and prosperity, and protecting our children and grandchildren against the dangerous consequences of climate destabilization."

Congressman Tierney and his Democratic colleagues have put forward a comprehensive plan to help the United States achieve energy independence within a decade. Here's how:

* Invest in research and development of new fuel-efficient vehicles, as well as bio-fuels (including ethanol, agricultural waste and hydrogen) and increased capacity for storage and transmission of solar and wind energy;

* Support sensible federal regulations to require higher vehicle gas mileage standards, strong efficiency standards for appliances, the use of more renewable fuels in power plants and quicker permitting for wind generation;

* Spread the word on conservation and energy efficiency measures for homes, schools and businesses, starting with simple steps like using compact fluorescent bulbs, monitoring thermostats and shutting down equipment when not in use;

* Provide federal support to local communities to support energy-saving investments in schools, homes and businesses;

* Set an example by promoting energy conservation and efficiency in all federal, state and local procurement decisions, thereby promoting greater private investment in a growing market.

As he has throughout his tenure in Congress, John Tierney will continue to work to change our national energy policy, moving away from the current heavy tilt toward the polluting fossil fuel industry and toward a more balanced portfolio of alternative and renewable sources that will ensure a clean and sustainable energy future for our country.

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