Heinrich Votes For Transformative Historic Clean Energy Legislation

Press Release

Today, H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (ACES) passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 219 to 212. U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1) voted in favor of this historic legislation that will propel our nation into a new clean energy economy. This measure would create millions of new jobs, boost production of clean energy, reduce dependence on foreign oil, increase the efficiency of our buildings and homes, and help to protect our planet for future generations.

"This legislation will transform our nation," said Rep. Martin Heinrich. "America is once again the master of her own destiny and we will no longer stand idly by while our economy and security are held hostage by hostile foreign powers. From this day on we will create our own clean energy and the jobs we reap will revitalize our nation's economy. This piece of legislation represents no less than a new Apollo project for American energy independence."

ACES would result in significant savings or other benefits for American families, including, reducing consumer spending on utility bills by approximately 7 percent in 2020, resulting in an average savings of approximately $130 per household. The measure would also create millions of new American jobs — an estimated 11,000 statewide in New Mexico, or an average of approximately 3,700 in the first congressional district.

Rep. Heinrich was instrumental in amending H.R. 2454 to ensure that the federal government leads by example on clean energy. His amendment would make it easier for federal agencies to contract with local clean energy producers to buy energy from renewable sources like wind and solar. This is especially important for the first congressional district in New Mexico, with its large federal government presence and a thriving clean energy industry. The language in the amendment would require federal agencies to get 20 percent of their energy from renewable sources, which is similar to the renewable electricity standard already in the bill.

"The federal government can now be a true partner with local energy producers as we build the clean energy economy," said Rep. Heinrich. "This amendment will put Americans to work and ensure the federal government leads by example on the use of clean energy."

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