http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-calls-on-candidates-to-support-a-new-energy-future http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-calls-on-candidates-to-support-a-new-energy-future Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/congress-votes-for-a-new-energy-future http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/congress-votes-for-a-new-energy-future Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/nc-legislature-approves-energy-bill   http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/nc-legislature-approves-energy-bill Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/house-gives-energy-bill-tentative-approval   http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/house-gives-energy-bill-tentative-approval Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/energy-bill-clears-senate http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/energy-bill-clears-senate Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environmental--consumer-groups-call-on-house-to-repair-senate-energy-bill http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environmental--consumer-groups-call-on-house-to-repair-senate-energy-bill Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/key-house-committee-debates-clean-energy-act Measure would slash http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/key-house-committee-debates-clean-energy-act Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-house-guts-offshore-drilling-protections http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-house-guts-offshore-drilling-protections Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/energy-bill-poised-to-clear-senate   http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/energy-bill-poised-to-clear-senate Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/energy-bill-unveiled-in-committee-draws-opposition http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/energy-bill-unveiled-in-committee-draws-opposition Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/increasing-miles-per-gallon-standards-will-reduce-pollution-and-break-the-nations-oil-habit    http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/increasing-miles-per-gallon-standards-will-reduce-pollution-and-break-the-nations-oil-habit Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-house-approves-bill-to-stimulate-the-clean-energy-economy Statement of Environment North Carolina: "We applaud Speaker Pelosi and the House of Representatives for their leadership in passing crucial renewable energy and energy efficiency tax incentives. This bill is an important and effective step in strengthening America’s clean energy economy. As one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S., the clean energy industry is a shining light in an otherwise lackluster economy. Unfortunately the renewable energy production tax credit and the solar investment tax credit -- are set to expire at the end of this year. Unless Congress and the President act soon, the bright light of the clean energy industry will likely be extinguished for the short term, potentially costing the U.S. economy as many as 116,000 jobs. The clean energy incentives included in the House’s clean energy tax package would not only stimulate the economy in the short-term by continuing job creation and spurring investment, but also would help solve global warming and promote and retain long-term development and growth in the clean energy technology industry. We urge the Senate and President Bush to support the House of Representatives in boosting our clean energy economy.” http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-house-approves-bill-to-stimulate-the-clean-energy-economy Mon, 03 Mar 2008 16:54:42 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-statement-on-president-bushs-state-of-the-union In his State of the Union Address tonight, President Bush is expected to lay out his priorities on energy, global warming, and the environment. In many instances the President’s stated goals of combating global warming and making the U.S. more energy independent have been in no way matched by actions. We applaud his support of the energy bill which past last year. But much more needs to be done. Renewable Energy: Tonight the President will announce he is “dedicated to strong growth in renewable electricity generation.” This is in direct contradiction to his threats to veto legislation last year that would have established a national renewable electricity standard and extended crucial tax incentives for the renewable energy industry. These two policies are critical to insuring the long term growth of renewable energy in this country. In the short term, the President must work with Congress to extend the clean energy tax incentives that expire by the end of this year as soon as possible. He must also voice his support for a national renewable electricity standard. Global Warming: In a bit of deja vu from a year ago, the President is expected to mention global warming in his address tonight but fail to endorse the key policies needed to actually solve the problem. Most notably, we expect the President to stop short of calling for a mandatory cap on global warming pollution, even though such a cap is essential to achieving the pollution cuts scientists say are needed in order to protect future generations from the worst effects of global warming. Fuel Economy: The President is also expected to highlight the signing of legislation that will require cars to achieve 35 miles per gallon by 2020. He will likely fail to mention that on the very same day that he signed the energy bill into law, the EPA undermined a powerful global warming pollution reduction tool available to states by denying California and twelve other states the right to regulate greenhouse gases from vehicles. This misguided decision by the Bush administration flies in the face of overwhelming public support for policy-makers to combat global warming and just serves as a further illustration of President Bush’s refusal to take the actions necessary to protect our environment and public health and to fight global warming. Nuclear Power: Nuclear energy is an expensive technology that does not offer a solution to global warming. Nuclear facilities will cost billions to construct and take decades to come on line, and then will have security and waste disposal problems. Serious action to combat global warming will mean investment in the cleanest, cheapest and quickest ways to reducing carbon emissions--renewables and energy efficiency. Coal: Clean coal is a myth. Coal is an inherently dirty fuel that pollutes our air, our water, and our pristine places. If we are going to be serious about fighting global warming then we need to move away from dirty fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas and toward clean renewable sources. We should invest in truly clean technologies like wind, solar, biomass and geothermal and not continue to sink billions of dollars into dirty coal. Offshore Drilling: Tonight, the President is expected to urge Congress to end the 27 year old bipartisan moratorium on new offshore drilling. Offshore drilling is the slowest, dirtiest and most expensive way to produce energy. Opening our coasts to drilling would do little to lower consumer prices or make us energy independent, but would threaten our beaches with pollution and potential oil spills and put our coastal tourism economy at risk. We cannot drill our way to energy security. http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-statement-on-president-bushs-state-of-the-union Wed, 30 Jan 2008 08:51:47 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-house-of-representatives-passes-21st-century-energy-bill Environment North Carolina applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing a 21st http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-house-of-representatives-passes-21st-century-energy-bill Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:47:33 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/renewable-energy-bill-will-increase-use-of-clean-homegrown-electricity-sources  Washington, DC—Representatives Udall (D-NM), Platts (R-PA), Udall (D-CO), and Pallone (D-NJ) today introduced a bill that will require the U.S. to generate 20 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020.“We commend Representatives Udall, Platts, Udall and Pallone for introducing this critical bill. By developing our homegrown energy resources we can break our dependence on fossil fuels while creating jobs and saving consumers money,” said Environment North Carolina Field Associate Margaret HartzellAmerica is currently overly dependent on fossil fuels, relying on coal, oil and natural gas to meet around 70 percent of our electricity needs. As a result power plants are the nation’s largest industrial source of air pollution and are a leading contributor to global warming The U.S. has virtually unlimited potential to generate electricity from renewable resources like wind, solar, geothermal, and biomass energy.  The Udall-Udall-Platts-Pallone legislation would require utilities to gradually increase the amount of renewable energy they use, reaching 20 percent of the electricity they sell by 2020. Similar policies are now in place in more than 20 statesA 2006 analysis by Environment North Carolina found that obtaining 20 percent of electricity from renewable energy sources by 2020 could cut global warming pollution by 511 million tons-- the equivalent of taking approximately 89 million cars off the road.“This bill is a critical step toward a cleaner, more secure energy future. By tapping the incredible potential of renewable energy, we’ll establish a cleaner, more sustainable foundation on which to build America’s economy for the 21st century,” said HartzellIn addition to Representatives Udall, Platts, Udall, and Pallone, the other original cosponsors include: Representative Christopher Shays (R-CT) and Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO).   http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/renewable-energy-bill-will-increase-use-of-clean-homegrown-electricity-sources Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/ncpirg-calls-on-leaders-to-break-americas-oil-habit-in-2006 As the new home of NCPIRG's environmental work, http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/ncpirg-calls-on-leaders-to-break-americas-oil-habit-in-2006 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/president-signs-landmark-oil-savings-legislation-renewable-energy-policies-are-critical-next-steps The President called for an http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/president-signs-landmark-oil-savings-legislation-renewable-energy-policies-are-critical-next-steps Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:50:20 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/congress-tops-off-landmark-energy-bill-awaits-presidential-signature Today the House passed a http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/congress-tops-off-landmark-energy-bill-awaits-presidential-signature Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:49:22 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/21st-century-energy-bill-blocked-in-senate-by-auto-industry-and-big-oil-allies Last week, U.S. House of http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/21st-century-energy-bill-blocked-in-senate-by-auto-industry-and-big-oil-allies Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:48:16 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/new-study-finds-u_s_-senate-auto-fuel-economy-standards-would-save-north-carolina-consumers-836-million-in-2020 A new report by Environment North Carolina finds that theautomobile http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/new-study-finds-u_s_-senate-auto-fuel-economy-standards-would-save-north-carolina-consumers-836-million-in-2020 Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:03:59 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-congratulates-candidates-for-leadership-on-clean-energy                      Raleigh, NC- Environment North Carolina congratulated candidates in the North Carolina General Assembly and U.S. Congress for supporting the New Energy Future platform to move North Carolina and America beyond fossil fuels and toward a cleaner energy future.   “Clean energy was not just good policy, but also good politics,” said Margaret Hartzell, Field Associate with Environment North Carolina.   “North Carolinians want a new direction, and we look forward to working with members of the General Assembly and Congress to put North Carolina’s innovation to work to build a New Energy Future,” said Hartzell. This week’s election results demonstrate that North Carolinians want their elected representatives to take action now to move North Carolina toward a new, cleaner energy future.  Winning candidates across the state and across the political spectrum endorsed the New Energy Future platform, including North Carolina’s Congressman-Elect Heath Shuler, who won one of the nation’s most closely watched races. Environment North Carolina was joined by organizations across the state in calling on all General Assembly candidates and Congressional candidates in the 2006 elections to deliver on the promise of a New Energy Future by committing to: •          Reduce our dependence on oil by 10% by 2025, this step would move the nation toward cutting its oil use by a third of what it uses today by 2025;•          Harness clean, renewable, homegrown energy sources for at least 10% of all energy needs by 2015, taking this step would help the nation derive 25% of its energy from clean sources by 2025;•          Save energy with high performance homes, businesses, schools and government buildings so that by 2015, new energy in North Carolina is met through energy efficiency instead of dirty, dangerous sources of energy.  Energy efficiency in North Carolina would help the nation cut its energy use by 10% by 2025; and•          Invest in a New Energy Future by allocating at least an additional $100 million annually into efficiency programs, research and development, clean energy infrastructure, and transportation alternatives.  Environment North Carolina organizers, activists, and volunteers worked to raise the profile of energy issues in North Carolina during the campaign, asking the candidates where they stood on energy issues at campaign events, debates, and by collecting petition signatures.  Candidates endorsing the platform came from across the political spectrum.  House Majority Leader Joe Hackney and Rep. Tracy Walker and Sen. Fred Smith endorsed some or all of the platform.  Congressional candidates endorsing the platform include Congressman Brad Miller and Congressman-Elect Heath Shuler and Republican candidates Ada Fisher and Shirley Davis. In six state races both major party candidates endorsed some or all of platform, including:House District 34: Grier Martin and J.H. RossHouse District 45: Rick Glazier and Alex WarnerHouse District 54: Joe Hackney and Alvin ReedSenate District 12: Fred Smith and Sherry AltmanSenate District 22: Harris Blake and Abraham OudehSenate District 23: Ellie Kinnaird and E.B. Alston“We will need bold leadership to solve our energy problems,” said Hartzell. “By endorsing the New Energy Future platform, candidates has shown their support for moving North Carolina in a new direction that puts our national security, our environment, the global climate and our children’s futures above Big Oil and other powerful interests” continued Hartzell More than 185 candidates in 39 states endorsed the New Energy Future platform. The full list of candidates who signed the New Energy Future Platform can found at www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/energy/new-energy-future/candidates..   http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-congratulates-candidates-for-leadership-on-clean-energy Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/report-clean-energy-manufacturing-could-bring-new-green-jobs-and-stronger-economy-in-wilmington-area Today, the Blue-Green Action Alliance, the public policy partnership of the Sierra Club and the United Steelworkers, and Environment North Carolina released a new report, “North Carolina’s Road to Energy Independence,” detailing the thousands of new green jobs in North Carolina that could be created by manufacturing the components for wind turbines, solar panels, and other renewable energy equipment.  The study, prepared by the Renewable Energy Policy Project, found that 31 firms in New Hanover County could benefit from 375 new jobs. “Why order wind turbines from Denmark to put up in Wilmington when we know that North Carolina has the workers and the factories to make them right here in the state?” said Alex Mohajer, Field Associate with Environment North Carolina.  “Turbines from Wilmington and solar panels from the Cape Fear area make sense for both the environment and North Carolina’s economy.  North Carolina’s been blessed with the natural resources to help America fight global warming, now it’s time for us to take advantage of North Carolina’s human resources to help put these smart energy solutions—and our citizens—to work.” At a time when the U.S. is rapidly losing manufacturing jobs, renewable energy manufacturing can revitalize communities across North Carolina that have lost jobs, as well creating a whole new generation of good-paying manufacturing jobs.  States across the country, such as Iowa, Arkansas, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania, have already seen thousands of new jobs created in the clean energy manufacturing sector.   “By pushing more renewable energy—something that will fight global warming and protect the environment—North Carolina can enjoy the same benefits that other states are already seeing,” said Mohajer.  “Fighting global warming offers us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a stronger, greener, and more equitable economy, while leaving a cleaner planet and stable climate for our children and grandchildren.” Strong State and National Renewable Energy Standards Needed The groups also called on Congress to include a national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES)—a requirement that 15 percent of our energy come from renewable sources like wind, solar, and biomass—in the final energy bill it is due to take up soon.  After Republicans, led by Sen. Pete Domenici of New Mexico, filibustered such a standard in the Senate, it was passed by the House of Representatives in its version of the energy bill.  It is essential that this provision be included in the final bill. “The states that moved earliest and most aggressively to establish renewable electricity standards have seen thousands of new jobs created already,” said Carl Pope, Sierra Club Executive Director.  “By enacting a national standard, Congress could make sure that all states can benefit from the green energy manufacturing boom.  All the pieces are there, Congress just needs to pass a final bill to flip the switch on America’s clean energy future.”"Right now, we have a historic opportunity to forge a new direction," said Leo Gerard, International President of the United Steelworkers. "Investments in environmentally friendly alternative energy programs at the state level, supported by federal initiatives, can create a new surge of quality job growth while significantly reducing our dependence on foreign oil.  We cannot allow this opportunity to pass us by.  There are no good jobs without a clean environment, and vice-versa."David Foster, Executive Director of the Blue Green Action Alliance, said, “We believe environmental challenges like global warming represent the most important economic opportunities of our generation.  This study confirms that view.”In addition to creating thousands of new jobs, analyses have demonstrated that enacting a national RES could save hardworking American families up to $18 billion by 2020 on their energy bills by lowering the cost of natural gas, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists.  Savings for consumers here in North Carolina would add up to $530 million.  This would also benefit industry and farmers who also depend heavily on natural gas.     “Rep. Mike McIntyre voted against RES when Congress was working on its energy bills this summer,” stated Mohajer.  “We hope that he will look at the many benefits for North Carolina and support the national Renewable Electricity Standard passed by the House. This is something that will benefit each and every one of us by saving us money on our energy bills, protecting our environment, and strengthening our state’s economy.”  http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/report-clean-energy-manufacturing-could-bring-new-green-jobs-and-stronger-economy-in-wilmington-area Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/citizens-pack-asheville-forum-on-energy-and-the-environment http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/citizens-pack-asheville-forum-on-energy-and-the-environment Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/why-cutting-state-gasoline-taxes-is-a-bad-move As the new home of NCPIRG's environmental work, http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/why-cutting-state-gasoline-taxes-is-a-bad-move Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-statement-on-state-of-the-union-address  It is good news that President Bush is finally recognizing http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolina-statement-on-state-of-the-union-address Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/president-to-offer-lofty-goals-with-dirty-details-on-energy-and-global-warming In his State of the Union address tonight, President Bush will offer plenty of lofty goals on energy, but the devil is in the details. With loopholes big enough to drive an SUV through, his plan fails to guarantee that car makers will do their share to break our dependence on oil, and could actually increase global warming pollution. While it is heartening that the President has called for an increase in fuel economy, he has provided no guarantee that consumers ever see the benefits.  For example, there is no guarantee that the actual miles per gallon of the cars on the road will increase as the President has failed to call for a specific increase in the fuel economy standard.President Bush to date has failed to meaningfully raise fuel economy standards, which is the best way to reduce our dependence on oil. Had the President increased the fuel economy of cars and SUVs to 40 miles per gallon by 2012 when he took office in 2001– which the National Academy of Sciences says is possible over the next 10 years – we would have consumed 500,000 barrels of oil less per day in 2006, and saved $8.7 billion at the pump. Perhaps the dirtiest detail is the President’s plan to change the Renewable Fuels Standard to an Alternative Fuel Standard. This a small change in name that could mean a big change in pollution. Alternatives fuels could include “coal to liquids” that create double the global warming pollution of traditional gasoline.The United States can reduce global warming pollution using energy efficiency and renewable energy and in so doing also break our reliance on fossil fuels, enhance our long-term economic and national security, and once again lead the world as a positive force for change.We welcome the Presidents goal of a new energy future, but it is time for real solutions, not just more loopholes and empty rhetoric. http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/president-to-offer-lofty-goals-with-dirty-details-on-energy-and-global-warming Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/congress-tops-off-first-100-hours-by-passing-clean-energy-act2 Washington, DC: Today the House of Representatives voted 264-163 to pass “The C.L.E.A.N. Energy Act of 2007,” (H.R. 6) which would close some tax loopholes for big oil companies, and recover royalties from oil and gas produced in public waters.  H.R. 6 will shift more than $14 billion from these subsidies to investments in clean energy, such as energy efficient technologies and renewable power.  The bill was the last of the six bills brought up for consideration during the House’s first 100 legislative hours. “Today the 110th Congress made a down payment on a new energy future,” said Margaret Hartzell, Environment North Carolina Field Associate. “Their investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency will create jobs and save consumers money,” continued Hartzell.H.R. 6 would establish a “clean energy fund” that would create incentives for and investments in energy efficient and renewable energy technologies.  These funds could:•   spur the construction of wind and solar energy power generation facilities;•   save consumers money on their energy bills with incentives for energy efficient  appliances, buildings, and equipment•   enable more to purchase gas-saving hybrid cars and trucks The resources for the fund would come from the elimination of more than $14 billion in subsidies and tax breaks that benefit oil and gas companies that made record profits over the past few years.  The bill would provide a strong incentive for oil companies to renegotiate offshore drilling leases signed in 1998 and 1999 that provided unlimited royalty relief.  It would also repeal several royalty relief provisions authorized in the Energy Policy Act of 2005.  A recent study by the U.S. Department of Interior found that royalty relief has led to “only a tiny increase in production,” (New York Times, 12/22/06) but would cost nearly $48 billion over the next 40 years.The bill would also prevent major oil companies such as ExxonMobil from claiming a tax break for “geological and geophysical” expenditures enacted in 2005. It would also remove a tax benefit from 2004 that lowers the income tax rate paid by oil companies by reclassifying oil and gas production as a manufactured good.“More than ever, America needs a new direction on energy policy. With the passage of the CLEAN Energy Act of 2007, Congress has sent a clear message that they are ready to start solving our energy problems.  We applaud Rep. G.K. Butterfield, Rep. Bob Etheridge, Rep. Robin Hayes, Rep. Walter Jones, Rep. Mike McIntyre, Rep. Brad Miller, Rep. David Price, Rep. Heath Shuler, and Rep. Mel Watt for supporting this critical step toward a new energy future,” said Hartzell http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/congress-tops-off-first-100-hours-by-passing-clean-energy-act2 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:31 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolinas-statement-on-sen_-obamas-new-energy-for-america-plan Statement of Margie Alt, Environment America Executive Director, on Senator Obama’s New Energy for America Plan “Senator Obama’s “New Energy for America” plan provides a real roadmap for changing the direction of our nation’s energy policy. After nearly eight years of heading in the wrong direction, there has never been a more important time to jump start a clean energy economy. America is at an energy crossroads and this plan takes the smarter, cleaner energy path. Senator Obama’s plan recognizes the economic and environmental imperative of real investments in the technologies that move our nation beyond oil, transition our economy to clean renewable energy and curb global warming pollution. In particular, we look forward to working with Senator Obama and the rest of Congress to increase fuel economy standards, put one million plug in hybrids on the road, enact a strong renewable electricity standard, promote high performance energy-saving homes and businesses, put a cap on global warming pollution, and create 5 million green jobs. In addition, Senator Obama’s plan recognizes people’s current pain at the pump. His plan anticipates high winter heating bills and has solutions that will help people immediately. The energy saving, renewable energy policies in Senator Obama’s plan are exactly the type of solutions that America needs. Simultaneous with Senator Obama putting out his visionary plan, Big Oil and its allies in Washington have been waging a slick campaign to convince Americans and the Congress that risking pristine beaches for offshore oil is the way to go. In fact, more drilling will neither reduce prices nor cut our dependence on dirty oil. We are disappointed to see that Senator Obama has expressed openness to compromise on offshore drilling and the health of our beaches when oil savings from his proposals for more efficient vehicles would better serve our needs, save consumers money and enhance the economy.” http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-north-carolinas-statement-on-sen_-obamas-new-energy-for-america-plan Tue, 05 Aug 2008 13:07:55 -0500 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-senate-rejects-a-first-step-in-passing-oil-saving-clean-energy-tax-incentives “At a time when Americans around the country are struggling with high gas prices, the U.S. Senate today blocked a crucial package of clean energy tax incentives that will reduce our oil dependence, reduce energy costs, curb global warming pollution and help shift our country to a new energy future. S. 3335, the Jobs, Energy, Families, and Disaster Relief Act of 2008 contains new incentives for plug in electric hybrid vehicles that are capable of achieving 100 miles per gallon. If all vehicles were plug in electric hybrids, we could reduce our oil consumption by 55%, nearly eliminating oil imports. At today’s gasoline prices, the average American driver would save $1500 a year in fuel costs by switching to a plug in hybrid. The bill also extends incentives for investment and production of clean renewable energy sources such as wind and solar energy. By diversifying our energy mix and reducing our dependence on coal, natural gas and oil, these technologies will help reduce consumer energy costs and are critical to jump starting the clean energy economy we will need to solve global warming. As one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S., the clean energy industry is a shining light in an otherwise lackluster economy. Unfortunately the renewable energy production tax credit and the solar investment tax credit -- are set to expire at the end of this year and investors are beginning to pull out of projects. According to a recent study by Navigant Consulting, failure to promptly extend renewable energy tax incentives places at risk 116,000 jobs in the wind and solar industries and more than $19 billion in clean energy investment. Finally, the bill extends incentives for money-saving energy efficiency measures, including tax credits for weatherizing homes and purchasing more efficient appliances. There has never been a more important time to jump-start a clean energy economy. Our current dependence on oil is a major economic, environmental and national security threat. To solve this problem we need to dramatically reduce oil consumption by shifting to more efficient vehicles, and giving consumers alternatives to driving. We applaud Sen. Dole for her vote to extend these critical incentives and are disappointed that Sen. Burr rejected even this basic first step towards reducing our dependence on oil.” http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-senate-rejects-a-first-step-in-passing-oil-saving-clean-energy-tax-incentives Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:30:10 -0500 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-senate-blocks-extension-of-critical-clean-energy-program Statement of Environment North Carolina Field Organizer Margaret Hartzell “We are extremely disappointed that Senators Elizabeth Dole and Richard Burr opposed going forward with clean energy and a green economy today. America needs more clean and efficient energy options. Time and time again, the American people have expressed strong support for efforts to jumpstart the clean energy revolution. The Senate has once again pulled the rug out from under one of the most critical clean energy programs available. As one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S., the clean energy industry is a shining light in an otherwise lackluster economy. Unfortunately the renewable energy production tax credit and the solar investment tax credit are set to expire at the end of this year, and investors are beginning to pull out of projects. Unless Congress and the President act soon, as many as 75,000 jobs could be at risk, according to the American Wind Energy Association. The clean energy incentives would not only stimulate the economy in the short term by continuing job creation and spurring investment, but also would help solve global warming and promote long-term development and growth in the clean energy technology industry. We urge Sens. Dole and Burr to stop blocking these essential provisions and to immediately extend these critical incentives that give a boost to the U.S. economy.” http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/u_s_-senate-blocks-extension-of-critical-clean-energy-program Wed, 11 Jun 2008 16:54:25 -0500 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/senate-defeats-clean-energy-incentives-in-stimulus-package Environment North Carolina Statement on Senate defeat of clean energy incentives: “We are disappointed that Congress missed the opportunity tonight to include crucial renewable energy and energy efficiency tax incentives in the Senate economic stimulus package. As one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S., clean energy is the shining light in an otherwise lackluster economic outlook. Unfortunately many of the tax incentives – namely the renewable energy production tax credit and the solar investment tax credit -- are set to expire at the end of this year. Unless Congress and the President act soon, the bright light of the clean energy industry will likely be extinguished for the short term, and potentially costing the U.S. economy as many as 75,000 jobs according to the American Wind Energy Association. The clean energy incentives included in the amendment defeated today would not only stimulate the economy in the short-term by continuing job creation and spurring investment, but also would help solve global warming and promote long-term development and growth in the clean energy technology industry. We urge Congress to make haste in extending these critical incentives and give a boost to a bright light in the U.S. economy.” http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/senate-defeats-clean-energy-incentives-in-stimulus-package Fri, 08 Feb 2008 10:47:29 -0600 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-america-launches-campaign-for-clean-energy-green-economy Washington, D.C.-- Environment America announced a $5.8 million 27 state campaign to focus attention on emerging opportunities to support clean energy that will help solve America’s energy problems while giving a boost to the economy and taking a bite out of our global warming problem. The national environmental advocacy group‘s Clean Energy and Green Economy campaign will build on public support for a clean energy economy, and steps already taken in numerous states and raise the bar on timely and much needed Congressional action.“Helping to solve this country’s energy problems and building the clean energy economy can’t wait until the next president. Congress must take the opportunity to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, decrease our reliance on dirty fossil fuels and transform our economy right now,” said Environment America Executive Director Margie Alt.Over the next 3 months, the campaign will speak directly with more than 1 million citizens in 90 Congressional Districts about putting clean energy technologies to work to make the nation cleaner and more energy independent, release a series of reports documenting opportunities for clean energy solutions, and build a broad based coalition for investment in the clean energy green economy.Action in more than half of the states on a wide range of policies has already begun to spark investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency. In the last year, almost a third of America’s new electric generation has come from clean wind power. An estimated 8.5 million jobs have been created by the move to renewable energy and energy efficiency. Environment America’s Clean Energy Green Economy Campaign will make the case that the United States has just begun to tap the potential of American ingenuity and technology.Environment America and affiliated state environmental organizations are calling on Congress to quickly move to a clean energy future by:• Extending the Renewable Energy Production and Investment Tax Credits before clean energy jobs are lost and emerging industries are stifled.• Passing a renewable electricity standard to get 20 percent of our energy from clean, renewable sources by 2020.• Funding the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block grants to help America’s cities become less dependent on fossil fuels by reducing the amount of energy they use for transportation and in buildings.• Ensuring that large investments in clean, homegrown energy are part of any global warming bill.According to research from Environment America, the U.S. is failing to meet its potential to make us less dependent on dirty energy and to meet our energy needs through clean renewable energy. Environment America is pushing Congress to enact solutions that will help us save energy, invest in home grown cleaner energy, create green jobs, and put us on the road to a healthier environment while building the clean energy economy. “Clean Energy is supported by Main Street and Wall Street,” added Alt. “With public concern about energy costs and national security at an all time high, we will raise the public demand for action so that Congress will push aside the K Street fossil fuel lobby and get the clean energy economy running at full speed.” http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/environment-america-launches-campaign-for-clean-energy-green-economy Wed, 14 May 2008 10:11:28 -0500 http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/senate-passes-cantwell-ensign-amendment-for-clean-energy-economy Environment North Carolina Statement: "We applaud the Senate for adding the Cantwell-Ensign amendment to the housing stimulus bill. This package will help finally push extensions of crucial renewable energy and energy efficiency tax incentives over the finish line. The emerging clean energy industries, like wind and solar power, are starting to solve global warming and our energy problems, while creating jobs that help the economy and our environment. Unfortunately much of the federal support for these industries, namely the renewable energy production tax credit and the solar investment tax credit, are set to expire at the end of this year. We can’t afford to wait for the next president to right our course—there are too many important projects hanging in the balance and too many jobs at stake. Without a timely renewal of the renewable tax credits, for example, a study by Navigant Consulting predicts a dramatic decline in investment, as much as $19 billion, and the loss of approximately 116,000 jobs. The clean energy incentives included in this bill would not only stimulate the economy in the short-term by continuing job creation and spurring investment, but would also help solve global warming and promote long-term development and growth in the clean energy technology industry. We urge the House to quickly pass, and the President to sign, these overdue extensions." http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/senate-passes-cantwell-ensign-amendment-for-clean-energy-economy Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:58:31 -0500