June 30, 2009

The U.S. House and Congressman Paul Kanjorski deserve congratulations and praise for last week's narrow passage of the most important energy legislation in a generation.

The House approved American Clean Energy and Security Act on a 219-212 vote. It now moves to the Senate for consideration there. The bill establishes targets for cuts in global warming pollution by reducing carbon emissions. Much of this would be achieved by requiring utilities and industries to meet some of their energy needs with renewable sources, such as solar and wind, and through conservation.

"By no means is this energy bill perfect," Kanjorski said in a statement, "but ... refusing to act was not an option. We need to begin the process of decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, creating clean energy jobs in America, and reducing our dependence on foreign oil."

Reductions in greenhouse gases are aimed at slowing global climate change. This is done partly by restoring the "backstop" authority of the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate carbon emissions from power plants should state agencies fail to do so.

Creation of clean energy jobs is critical for our economy. The University of Massachusetts estimates that 1.7 million jobs will be created through transition to a clean energy economy.

Reducing our dependence on foreign oil will enhance national security by reducing the ability of foreign governments that are hostile to U.S. interests to hold us hostage.

Some have expressed concerns the bill will produce additional costs for consumers and businesses. But the Congressional Budget Office estimates that subsidies for low-income families included in the bill will produce annual energy savings of about $40.

Consumer utility bills will decline about 7 percent, due to energy efficiency measures in the legislation, according to an Environmental Protection Agency study.

The U.S. Senate should pass a bill with most of the House provisions intact. Clean energy offers a unique opportunity to grow jobs and build a stronger economy.