U.S.
Senator Member of the Agriculture, Energy and Veterans Affairs
Committees |
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For Immediate
Release May 26, 2005 |
CONTACT: Cody Wertz – Press Secretary 202-228-3630 Jen Clanahan – Deputy Press Secretary 303-455-7600 |
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SEN. SALAZAR’S
ENERGY INITIATIVES MOVE TO FULL SENATE AS PART OF COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY
BILL
“An America independent from foreign oil, and an America with a responsible, diversified energy portfolio, will be a stronger America with a more robust economy,” Salazar said. “I believe the Energy Bill we passed today marches us toward those very goals, through renewable energy and fuels, through efficiency and conservation, and through a balanced approach to development. If we are able to reach a consensus on this bill it will be good for the entire country.” Senator Salazar has pushed for development of renewable energy, clean coal and coal gasification, and thoughtful oil shale development. Coal energy represents over 80 percent of Colorado’s electrical needs and Senator Salazar’s bill will help produce the equivalent of 1.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas according to industry experts, enough to light 40,000 homes. It is estimated that in the Green River Oil Shale Formation of Colorado, Wyoming and Utah there are over one trillion barrels of potential oil. The United States consumes 20 million barrels of oil per day. Colorado has proposals for ethanol plants in Evans, Sterling and Windsor and an existing biodiesel plant in Alamosa. On average, a new ethanol plant creates 41 new jobs, increases local corn prices by 5 to 10 cents per bushel and expands the local economic base of the community by more than 100 million dollars each year. Senator Salazar’s proposals seek to increase America’s energy independence, bring jobs to Colorado and protect Colorado’s land and water. Below is an overview of Senator Salazar’s legislation that has now been added to the Energy Bill. The Energy Bill should be heard on the Senate floor next month. Renewable Energy: Increase Ethanol and Biodiesel Production and Use:
Promote More-Environmentally-Friendly Use of Coal:
Foster Responsible Oil Shale Development:
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