Congressman Ryan believes that Congress, the Administration, and the American people together need to show leadership and dedication to moving our nation towards the expansion of and support for renewable energy sources that will reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Despite recent price increases, oil consumption in the United States has remained relatively unchanged – giving the market no incentive to adjust prices or production.

The United States spends about $750 billion a year to purchase oil from countries including Algeria, Iraq, Libya, Nigeria, and Saudi Arabia. The Department of Defense routinely spends hundreds of billions of dollars escorting oil freighters in and out of the Persian Gulf. Congressman Ryan believes that our country must reduce its dependency on foreign oil for the benefit of the economy and the environment. In addition, continued dependence on foreign nations for the energy needs of the United States has led to countless political entanglements that threaten our national security.

While many different initiatives to address this issue have been brought to the table, Congressman Ryan does not believe that any one idea represents a single solution.

To curb our dependence, Congressman Ryan strongly believes that the United States must reduce its consumption of fossil fuels and move towards an energy future in which solar, wind, geothermal, and other renewable sources produce a greater percentage of our nation’s energy. However, it is clear that our transportation system will continue to use fossil fuels in the near future. Cleaner and cheaper than petroleum, Congressman Ryan believes that natural gas should be a viable fueling option for American consumers and supports the transition from petroleum to natural gas, as well as related development of fuel cell technology.

Serving as a member of the House Appropriations Committee has allowed Congressman Ryan to ensure that important investments for the future of our country’s energy supply are supported. Congressman Ryan also continues to fight for the creation and implementation of a comprehensive energy strategy that will strengthen our nation and provide its citizens with policies that create wealth, encourage health, and protect and enhance our environment.