As I travel across all 56 counties in Montana, I see up close how high gas prices are affecting families and small businesses. Every Montanan feels the blow of increasing prices at the pump directly as well as through higher prices for food and other goods. For many Montanans, just getting to work every day and putting three meals on the table has stretched the family budget. For others, summer vacation plans were put on hold or cancelled as a road trip was no longer affordable. As Montana's Congressman, I will continue working to solve the energy problems facing our state. Multimedia Lights Out,
Denny Rehberg on Energy Solutions Denny's Desk 001: Energy Plan Denny's Desk 002: Off-Shore Exploration Denny's Desk 003: American Energy Act Denny's Desk 004: The "Use It Or Lose It" Myth Denny's Desk 005: Energy Diversification Denny's Desk 006: Come Back to Vote
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A recent United States Geological Survey assessment estimates there is 3.0 to 4.3 billion barrels of untapped, recoverable oil in the Bakken Formation, which lies underneath parts of eastern Montana and western North Dakota. It is important we look to all domestic resources, both on and off shore, to bolster our energy supply. Development of these resources will not only help lower gas prices but also bring good-paying jobs and economic development to Montana’s rural communities. We must take advantage of advances in drilling and production technologies that increase our ability to explore in new areas every day while ensuring our environment is preserved for future generations. Congress should cut the red tape and streamline the permitting process that has left the U.S. without a new refinery in 30 years and with aging infrastructure that leaves us vulnerable to price fluctuations. I’ve signed an Energy Pledge that reads "I will vote to increase U.S. oil production to lower gas prices for Americans." You can access the full list of Members of Congress who have signed the pledge here.
Increasing our energy efficiency is a vital part of a near-term solution to easing the pain the pump. In 2007, I supported an increase in the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards that will make sure the next generation of vehicles maintain their safety standards while also going further on a gallon of fuel.
We must explore and utilize all alternative sources of energy such as wind, biomass, bio-diesel, coal-to-liquids, geothermal, ethanol, and solar. Montana should play a key role in the future of alternative and renewable energy and this diversity will lead to greater stability in the energy markets. As a member of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I have a seat at the table in promoting state-of-the-art research at the Department of Energy that will help us invent our way into a secure energy future. This includes providing incentives, such as grants and loans, to Montana’s schools and businesses to encourage these technological developments. America should lead the way in developing new energy technology that will lessen our dependence on foreign sources of energy and result in a cleaner environment.
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Below is a brief description of the bills I am currently fighting for that will help implement my plan for Energy Independence in the House of Representatives:
*some bill descriptions from GOP.gov Resources Why Is Oil So Expensive Fuel Economy Tips Save Money at the Pump Montana Gas Prices Local Gas Prices at AAA Report price gouging to the U.S. Department of Energy Report price gouging to the Federal Trade Commission Read about the House Republicans Real Energy Solutions, including news updates and other helpful resources. Talk Back! Take the Back to School Energy Survey
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