Energy Independence

Op-Ed

Fridays With Chris; Energy Independence

Dear Friend,

These last two weeks I've traveled throughout Northeast and Central Pennsylvania. I continue to hear from families about their struggles with high gas and home heating oil prices. Families should not have to choose between putting food on their tables and filling up their gas tanks. In addition, I firmly believe that our dependence on foreign oil presents a serious threat to our national security. I voted against adjourning for the annual August district work period because our country needs a comprehensive energy policy that will bring real relief to the American people and allow us to declare our energy independence.

I have consistently supported expanding the domestic production of oil and natural gas. More than 80 percent of oil and gas resources in the United States are available for development. Unfortunately, oil and gas companies have failed to take advantage of 68 million acres of federal land. These 68 million acres could produce an additional 4.8 million barrels of oil and 44.7 billion cubic feet of natural gas each day. This would nearly double our total U.S. oil production and increase our natural gas production by 75 percent. I have supported legislation that would require oil and gas companies to diligently develop these resources. In addition, as I have noted before, I have fought to close speculation loopholes that are driving up the price of oil. Closing these loopholes would bring immediate relief to American families.

Going forward, however, our country must end our dependence on oil with real and sensible long term solutions. I have supported increased investment in alternative and renewable energy and tax credits for solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass energy development. There is truly gold in green. Future Fridays with Chris will spotlight local efforts to help our communities become energy independent. During the next two weeks, my Chief of Staff, April Metwalli, and my District Director, Paul Macknosky, will be filling in for me. I will be reporting for two weeks of active duty in the U.S. Navy Reserve. I look forward to continuing our conversation on September 5.

Sincerely,

Christopher P. Carney
Member of Congress

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