Democratic Whip Hoyer And Rep. Perlmutter Highlight Importance Of Renewable Energy With Tour Of NREL

Press Release

Following new proposed regulations announced by the Environmental Protection Agency, Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) today toured the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). NREL is the U.S. Department of Energy's primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development.

The tour highlighted several key priorities for both Congressmen, such as the Make It In America plan and the importance of renewable energy and energy independence. The visit included tours of the world's largest net zero energy office building, advanced solar research and development labs, energy systems integration labs and a biorefinery research facility.

"Democrats are committed to investing in renewable energy, while addressing the harmful impact of climate change by reducing carbon pollution," stated Whip Hoyer. "Congressman Perlmutter has been a leader on this issue, and I was pleased to join him at NREL today to see first-hand the critical work they are performing and to discuss Make It In America bills that promote new energy technologies. I thank Rep. Perlmutter for his strong commitment to protecting our environment and advancing renewable energy initiatives, which will reduce pollution, improve public health, create jobs, and spur American innovation."

The Make It In America plan focuses on creating the best conditions for American businesses to manufacture their products, innovate, and create jobs in the U.S. One of the ten Make It In America bills- the Energy Jobs and Training for Veterans Act - provides grants for job training, apprenticeship, real experience and long-term employment in all energy fields.

"Colorado is ahead of the curve when it comes to environmental regulations but we need to continue to pursue energy efficient programs to power our nation. NREL is a great example of the effort underway to achieve energy independence and greater renewable energy innovations," said Rep. Perlmutter. "I appreciate Congressman Hoyer taking the time to visit this flagship facility to learn about some of today's most cutting edge energy technologies."

Both Congressmen Hoyer and Perlmutter support environmental standards to keep our land, air and water clean. Congressman Hoyer has secured millions of federal dollars to clean up the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent, Potomac, Anacostia, and St. Mary's Rivers, and to replenish the oyster population of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. As a member of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC),Congressman Perlmutter also has a strong record on environmental issues, such as supporting investments in conservation projects and protecting our public lands and natural environment for generations.

With an emphasis on a comprehensive energy approach, NREL develops renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices that advance related science and innovations to address the nation's energy and environmental goals. In Colorado, NREL spans more than 600 acres across its Golden campus and the nation's premier wind energy technology facility, National Wind Technology Center near Boulder.

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