Congressman Dave Reichert

Energy

Congressman Reichert believes that the United States must look beyond oil to fuel the future. There’s a fundamental problem with simply being reliant on oil — it is a fossil fuel drawing on finite, dwindling resources. Additionally, our reliance on oil contributes to CO2 emissions. Renewable energy resources — such as wind and cellulosic ethanol — are constantly replenished.

Energy independence enhances national security. When it comes to providing for our energy demands, there isn’t a one sure solution.

The nation’s energy policy should provide both diversity and security, by investing in multiple sources, especially renewable sources and new technology such as plug-in hybrids. By not leaning on one source – oil – we make our country safer and healthier at the same time.

Congressman Reichert's work on energy includes:

Co-sponsor of and voted for legislation to advance hydrogen energy technologies: the H-Prize Act of 2007 would award competitive cash prizes biennially to advance the research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of hydrogen energy technologies.

Improves Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. The law sets a target of 35 miles per gallon for the combined fleet of cars and light trucks by model year 2020.

Improves the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS). The law sets a modified standard that starts at 9.0 billion gallons in 2008 and rises to 36 billion gallons by 2022.

Sets Higher Energy Efficiency Equipment Standards. The adopted bill includes a variety of new standards for lighting and for residential and commercial appliance equipment. The equipment includes residential refrigerators, freezers, refrigerator-freezers, metal halide lamps, and commercial walk-in coolers and freezers.

Repeals Oil and Gas Tax Incentives. The enacted law includes repeal of two tax subsidies in order to offset the estimated cost to implement the CAFE imporovements. The law sets a target of 35 miles per gallon for the combined fleet of cars and light trucks by model year 2020.The law sets a modified standard that starts at 9.0 billion gallons in 2008 and rises to 36 billion gallons by 2022.The adopted bill includes a variety of new standards for lighting and for residential and commercial appliance equipment. The equipment includes residential refrigerators, freezers, refrigerator-freezers, metal halide lamps, and commercial walk-in coolers and freezers.The enacted law includes repeal of two tax subsidies in order to offset the estimated cost to implement the CAFE imporovements.

Voted for H.R. 1252: Federal Price Gouging Prevention Act: This bill increases penalties for price gouging on gasoline in times of national emergencies.

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