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REP. SALAZAR ANNOUNCES NEW DIRECTION IN ENERGY INDEPENDENCE
Legislation would ease America’s Dependence on Foreign Oil
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Salazar announced that the U.S. House passed H.R. 6, the Energy Independence and Security Act.
“The Energy Independence and Security Act will move America towards energy independence, respond to the global warming crisis, and stimulate growth in our economy,” Rep. Salazar said. “With a balanced approach to CAFE standards, this legislation will also strengthen our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil.”
Strengthens National Security:
- Increases vehicle fuel efficiency to 35 miles per gallon in 2020—the first congressional increase in 32 years.
- Slashes U.S. oil consumption by more than 4 million barrels per day by 2030—more than twice our daily imports from the Persian Gulf.
- Expands American-grown biofuels to 36 billion gallons in 2022.
Reduces Global Warming:
- Cuts greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
- Increased vehicle fuel efficiency will have the equivalent effect of taking 28 million vehicles off the road.
- Makes a historic commitment to American homegrown renewable energy that reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Lowers Energy and Fuel Costs:
- New fuel efficiency standards will produce $22 billion in net annual savings for consumers in 2020. Colorado will see an Annual Net Consumer Savings of $327 million in 2020.
- Increased vehicle fuel efficiency will save American families $700 to $1,000 a year at the pump.
- Building, appliance, and lighting efficiency will save consumers $400 billion in utility bills through 2030.
Creates Jobs:
- Massive development of biofuels and cutting-edge energy research will create 2,100 Colorado jobs.
- Job training will prepare workers for 3 million new ‘green’ jobs over 10 years.
- Small businesses will be renewable energy leaders.
House passage of the bill sends it to the President's desk. The White House has indicated that the President will sign the bill.
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