Abercrombie said the measure promotes alternative energy development and economic security, while granting coastal states authority to maintain existing environmental protections within 100 miles of their shores.

“My focus in supporting this bill is to open up restricted areas of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) to natural gas exploration,” said Abercrombie. “Natural gas is essential for increased renewable energy production.  It is used to produce hydrogen fuel cells and is 90% of nitrogenous fertilizer, used to grow crops for ethanol.  Without the capability to import increased supplies of natural gas, we need to start producing our own.

“Natural gas is today’s alternative energy, and it’s the bridge to the nation’s alternative energy future. The DOER Act generates federal dollars to invest in alternative energy, and the money can’t be taken away and is not subject to the uncertainties of the appropriations process.

“Natural gas is a key element in the nation’s prosperity. Since 2000, U.S. natural gas prices have been the highest in the world.  U.S. companies – and U.S. workers – are at an unfair competitive disadvantage in the global market. The Department of Commerce estimates that during 2000-04, natural gas price increases reduced civilian employment by an average of 489,000 jobs per year.  Losses in the manufacturing sector accounted for 16% of that loss, 79,000 jobs per year.

“A majority in both parties voted for the DOER Act when it passed the House Resources Committee.  We know that it is not the total answer to our energy crisis, but it’s a solid start on the long journey to a solution.”

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