Press Releases

August 21, 2008

Webb Hosts Energy Forum with Industry & Community Leaders in Lynchburg

Stresses Need for Comprehensive Energy Strategy, Including Nuclear Technologies

Lynchburg, Va. – U.S. Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) today hosted a Community Leaders Energy Roundtable in Lynchburg to discuss various initiatives to address the nation's growing energy crisis.

At the forum, held on the campus of Central Virginia Community College, Webb called for a comprehensive energy strategy that includes nuclear power, clean coal, offshore exploration, and a renewed focus on conservation and alternative energy technologies.

"We are an energy-thirsty nation, and I believe we need diversified solutions," said Webb. "Working to develop a national energy strategy is a prominent part of my legislative agenda. Today's forum provided a real opportunity to engage community and industry leaders in Lynchburg."

The Community Leaders Energy Roundtable focused on the impact of energy development on central Virginia's economy. Joining Senator Webb at the roundtable discussion were prominent government and business leaders in energy development, including Delegate Shannon Valentine, Central Virginia Community College President Darrel Staat, and executives from Babcock & Wilson and AREVA.

"What we are seeing here is perhaps a perfect marriage – as our nation is acknowledging that we are facing tremendous energy challenges, local communities and industry are working collaboratively to find responsible solutions," concluded Webb.

Earlier in the day, Senator Webb received a tour of AREVA, a nuclear-fuel-cycle technology company that employs 2,000 workers in the Lynchburg area. The Lynchburg facility recently received $1 million from Lynchburg's Industrial Development Authority to aid in their expansion and to improve the city's infrastructure surrounding the facility.

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