Cardin, Delaney, Lujan Introduce Resolutions Establishing National Clean Energy Goals

Statement

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Congressman John K. Delaney (Md.-6) and Congressman Ben Ray Luján (N.M.-3) have filed resolutions in the House and Senate affirming the establishment of a national goal of more than 50 percent of America's electricity production coming from clean and carbon-free electricity sources by 2030 and calling for the enactment of new legislation to achieve this goal. In a show of significant support for this initiative, the "50x30 Resolutions" are cosponsored by 30 Senators and 103 House Members. The 50x30 Resolutions also are endorsed by The Union of Concerned Scientists, GreenLatinos, Green for All, Climate Hawks and the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Caucus.

"Investment in clean energy is booming and Congress has to act swiftly or risk hurting the United States financially and damaging our global reputation as a clean energy innovator. If we don't lead on clean energy, some other country will," said Senator Cardin, who is a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. "This resolution is a blueprint of where our nation needs to be. I don't see this as a partisan issue, it's about national security, economic security and public health. The next President of the United States will want to exert continued leadership in this area."

"Pivoting to a clean carbon-free economy is about good-paying jobs, strengthening our national security and protecting our environment and public health. Over 100 Senators and Representatives have joined our effort to put clean energy and climate action on the Congressional agenda," said Congressman Delaney. "There's a consensus that it's time to end climate denialism and time for Congress to get work on solutions."

"Across the country and in my home state of New Mexico, the American people are already experiencing the devastating impacts of climate change, from more extreme fires and record drought to more severe storms, said Congressman Luján. "Transitioning to a clean energy economy can mitigate these worsening effects while spurring innovative new sectors that will create jobs and economic opportunities in our communities. A national goal of 50 percent clean and carbon free electricity by 2030 establishes a realistic marker that will challenge our country and accelerate action that is good for our economy, our national security, and our health."

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