| Washington, DC: Today the U.S. House passed the final Conference Report for the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (H.R. 6). The measure will now head to President Bush for signature.
"After a four year stalemate, this comprehensive energy plan could not come at a more opportune time for America," Marchant said. "I am glad Congress has responded to the concerns of Americans by passing a bill that will reduce dependence on foreign oil, spur the economy, and support our national security."
The legislation encourages domestic production of oil by streamlining the permit process, promoting greater refining capacity, and curtailing the proliferation of expensive regional boutique fuels. It seeks to reduce the demand for oil by increasing funding to improve fuel efficiency standards and promoting the development of alternative sources of energy.
The measure boosts production of clean natural gas to assist with soaring gas prices. The bill also supports clean and renewable fuels by providing incentives for clean coal technology and other sources of energy such as biomass, wind, solar, and hydroelectricity.
The bill also extends daylight savings time by four weeks. This will reduce energy consumption by the equivalent of 100,000 barrels of oil for each day of the extension. Studies indicate that extending daylight savings time will lower crime and traffic fatalities, while allowing for increased recreation time and economic activity.
The plan encourages more nuclear and hydropower production as well by authorizing the Department of Energy to develop accelerated programs for the production and supply of electricity. It also improves current procedures for hydroelectric project licensing.
"The energy plan is not an instant fix for prices at the pump," Marchant noted. "It is a broad strategy to ensure Americans a reliable and affordable energy supply.
"America needs an energy policy for the twenty-first century. We should be looking at and investing in new sources of energy, as well as producing our own oil. Increased domestic oil production, combined with additional utilization of renewable energy sources, will reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign energy.
"This bill is good for our country," Marchant added. "After many failed attempts, we finally have a plan that will bolster the economy and ensure that the United States has the infrastructure to meet our future energy demands. I am proud that the House and the Senate could together produce such an ambitious energy bill for the President to sign into law."
CONTACT:
Annie Christian
(202) 225-6605
annie.christian@mail.house.gov |
