WASHINGTON (May 25, 2007) – Congressman Ben Chandler joined his colleagues on the House Science and Technology Committee to approve H.R. 364, a bill to establish a new agency within the Department of Energy called the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). This measure will now move to the full House for consideration.
“It is more and more evident that we need alternative options for fueling our vehicles, homes and businesses,” said Congressman Ben Chandler. “This bill will provide the resources for much needed energy innovation that will help the United States become energy independent in the 21st century.”
ARPA-E will increase funding for innovative research conducted by both public and private groups, including energy-related industries, federal laboratories and universities. The goal of this new agency is to provide experts in the field the resources they need to develop new technologies that can then be commercialized for public use.
“Record breaking gas prices continue to rise around the country, straining families’ budgets and slowing down economic growth,” said Chandler. “Currently, Kentucky is using over 6,360,000 gallons of gas a day and paying 119 percent more for fuel than in 2001. Now is the time when we look toward the future, researching alternative energy sources and conserving for future generations.”
This measure is part of the Science Committee’s innovation agenda, which is based on recommendations by the National Academies Committee on Science, Engineering, and Public Policy. Their 2005 report, Rising Above the Gathering Storm, was requested by a bipartisan group of Congressional lawmakers.
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