Shelley Moore Capito - Congresswoman

The ups and downs of energy prices over the past year have reminded us all that our nation is in desperate need of a comprehensive energy policy. Last year, gas prices reached over $4 per gallon, putting a heavy burden on hard working West Virginians. Though prices have eased, energy independence must remain a top priority.

An ardent supporter of an "all-of-the-above" energy plan, Capito believes America must use all available energy sources - from traditional resources, to clean coal, to newer alternative energy technology.

Congresswoman Capito has also supported efforts to prevent price gouging by the oil industry, crack down on oil speculation and increase enforcement efforts. She backed a landmark increase in fuel economy standards to 35 miles per gallon by 2020 for cars and trucks that will decrease our reliance on foreign oil and lead more fuel efficient automobiles with lower carbon-dioxide emissions.

With its coal, natural gas reserves and wind corridors, West Virginia stands to be an important player in the push energy independence.

To advance the use of West Virginia resources, Capito has introduced legislation to mandate 6 billion gallons of annually-produced coal-to-liquid fuel by 2021. She has also co-sponsored and supported a range of legislation to promote investment in clean coal technology, biomass, oil shale and other sources of green alternative energy.

To further expand domestic energy production, Capito joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in crafting comprehensive legislation to address the ongoing challenges of high energy costs. Their legislation would use the royalties from exploration to invest in alternative and renewable sources of energy including up to $130 billion in clean coal technology.

Their plan could form the framework for comprehensive energy legislation and - as a member of the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming - the Congresswoman will continue to seek bipartisan solutions on this important national issue.