Energy

Statement by Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX10) following the President's address on the Gulf oil spill:

McCaul Op-Ed as printed in Roll Call 10/19/09: One District Can Have Two Views

Four dollar gasoline should have been a wakeup call for this country to finally create an “all of the above” energy policy that maximizes all of our rich resources.  I have long supported this approach to increasing American-made energy to lessen our dependence on foreign oil and to keep gas prices low. 

 

I have sponsored the American Energy Act which balances environmentally responsible drilling for oil and natural gas in areas that are currently off limits with the need to develop alternative energy such as wind, solar, hybrid, nuclear and Green Technology (see High Tech issues on our website). 

 

But even if we fully invest in alternative fuels, studies indicate that by 2030 our country will still rely on oil for most of our energy needs.  Today, we produce only 20% of the oil we consume.  We must increase our own domestic supply of energy or continue to be held hostage by countries that know they can set their prices high.  My plan calls for a smart, balanced approach.

 

MANHATTAN PROJECT FOR ENERGY INDEPENDENCE

- Expand and consolidate our research into how the U.S. can become energy independent

 

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY TAX CREDITS

- Creates and extends credits as incentives for exploration.

 

OPENS “OFF LIMITS AREAS” FOR DRILLING

- We have the technology to safely drill in environmentally sensitive areas including Alaska and our ocean floors.

 

NEW REFINERIES

- America has not permitted new refineries since 1976.  I have sponsored legislation to streamline the permitting process.

 

NUCLEAR POWER

- Safe, clean and inexpensive.  I have sponsored legislation under which the NRC cannot deny nuclear waste disposal applications.