Committee Approves Energy Saving Plan by DeGette

Committee Approves Energy Saving Plan by DeGette

WASHINGTON, DC - On April 6, 2005, House Energy and Commerce Committee approved a plan by U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) requiring Congress to purchase office equipment and appliances that meets or exceeds the Energy Star energy efficiency standards. It will be included in the 2005 Energy Bill.

"Wasted energy is a huge cost, especially during these times of soaring energy prices. Purchasing energy-efficient products can save taxpayer dollars, have an enormous impact in overall energy consumption and help reduce pollution," said Rep. DeGette. "I am pleased that the committee supported this common sense proposal to cut government waste."

The plan would require Congress to follow the same energy efficiency requirements already followed by executive branch. The Energy Star program, introduced by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1992, has been extremely successful at helping consumers and businesses identify energy-efficient products allowing them to save money while helping the environment. Products identified with the well-known Energy Star label could potentially reduce wasted energy by up to 75 percent. In 2004, businesses and consumers saved an estimated 10 billion dollars as a result of the Energy Star program.

"It's time for Congress to encourage widespread adoption of new technologies to reduce energy consumption. This is an opportunity for Congress to recognize the importance of conservation by making the same investment in energy efficient products as the rest of the government," said Rep. DeGette.

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/co01_degette/050406.html