Energy Independence

Energy Independence

Submitted by Phil Giltner on July 28, 2006 - 12:02pm.

1. PROMOTE INNOVATION AND THE USE OF ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES

* Enact and Extend Federal Tax Incentives for the Use of Innovative, Clean and Energy-Efficient Fuels

We need to guarantee that America is the leader in the next generation of energy technologies; this can be accomplished by promoting innovation and investment in new, clean energy sources and the products that run on them. Targeted federal incentives in alternative energies - such as bio-fuels, fuel cells, wind, solar, and hydropower - will promote national and local economic growth and protect our precious natural resources. These federal investments will generate real, long-term returns for consumers and businesses.

* Expand Federal R&D for New Energy Sources and Encourage Private Investment

Our country must better invest in R&D, so that we can move forward with the deployment of clean technologies and renewable energy sources. We need policies that encourage energy providers to utilize 10% of renewable energy sources by 2020. Funding should increase annually by 20% over the next 3 years for the EPA and the Department of Energy R&D programs. By promoting alternative energies, like ethanol, we can reduce the amount of oil we import daily by 60% - 3 million barrels a day - by 2020. By expanding our R&D, America can be at the forefront of energy technologies globally.

2. UTILIZE OUR MANUFACTURING BASE TO PRODUCE THE PRODUCTS OF THE FUTURE

* Increase Incentives for Alternative and Energy Efficient Homes, Farms, Businesses and Products

We must encourage states to reward the implementation of higher and more advanced energy codes in new infrastructure projects. We can promote the expansion of energy-efficient and alternative energy using products through increased R&D and through programs like ENERGY STAR. In addition to supporting conservation and the use of alternative energy sources, these measures will save residents and businesses money in the long-term.

* Reduce U.S. Dependence on Foreign Oil by Increasing CAFE Standards for Motor Vehicles

We must increase Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards each year so America can produce a range of cars that get 60mpg in the next decade. To facilitate compliance with the tougher standards, CAFE should be complemented with tax credits for purchasers of these highly efficient vehicles and tax breaks for automakers that need help with the transition. The federal government should also work with the private sector to support accelerating the installation of ethanol pumps through leadership and incentives. Our national security depends on reducing our dependence on oil from unstable parts of the world.

3. INVEST IN CURRENT INFRASTRUCTURE AND LOWER GAS COSTS FOR OUR FAMILIES

* Expand Funding For and Encourage Use of Mass Transit

We need to alleviate road congestion, reduce oil consumption and promote conservation, therefore, we should maintain Amtrak funding for the Northeast corridor and increase federal incentives to states who want to improve, maintain or establish mass transit systems. I will fight for investments in a light-rail system that spans the length of the district to improve access to jobs and economic opportunities. This must be a national priority because 70% of our oil consumption stems from transportation.

* Improve Existing Electricity Transmission Grids

For national security and consumer benefit, the federal government must enact new equipment efficiency standards, strengthen the enforcement of current standards, and invest in infrastructure. This will not only improve electricity transmission and prevent blackouts, but also provide additional high-paying jobs for the area.

* Provide Home Heating Assistance to Middle Class Families and Investigate Manipulation of Gas Prices

With oil and natural gas prices at an all time high, we need to provide additional assistance to families and seniors who will face high home heating prices in the winter. I will fight to increase LIHEAP funds and suspend the federal gas tax in the short term to ease the financial burden on our farmers, small business owners, and families. In addition, I will call for an investigation into the market manipulation of oil prices that have resulted in record high gas prices for consumers and record-breaking profits for oil executives.

http://www.gillibrand2006.com/node/264