U.S. Rep. Ben Ray LujánU.S. CONGRESSIONAL News:
Washington, D.C. ― Rep. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT) this week introduced legislation that creates a national renewable energy and energy efficiency standard that will reduce carbon emissions and drive the deployment of clean energy resources around the country.
“Promoting the use of renewable energy and increased energy efficiency is not only good for our environment, but it is good for our economy and forconsumers,” Luján said. “A number of states, including New Mexico, have taken the lead with a renewable energy standard, and a national standard will further encourage the development of a clean energy economy that creates good jobs and enhances our economic competitiveness. This legislation will also help hard-working families by lowering energy bills and putting more money back in their pockets.”
“The United States is lagging behind on energy efficiency and renewable energy resources. We have barely scratched the surface of our potential,” Welch said. “This legislation charts a new energy future where energy efficiency and renewable technologies are put to work creating jobs, saving money and improving the environment.”
The American Renewable Energy and Efficiency Act would require electric utilities, by 2030, to obtain at least 30 percent of their electricity supply from renewable sources and achieve a 20 percent reduction in electricity use and a 13 percent reduction in natural gas use.
“We strongly support Rep. Welch and Rep. Luján’s introduction of the American Renewable Energy and Efficiency Act and applaud his leadership in promoting renewable energy nationwide. The establishment of a national renewable electricity standard will lower energy costs for consumers, drive new investment and job growth, and diversify our nation’s energy resources,”said the American Wind Energy Association.
“Analysis shows a 30 percent by 2030 national RES is achievable and would provide substantial consumer, economic, and climate benefits,” Jeff Deyette, senior energy analyst for the Union of Concerned Scientists said. “Combining an energy efficiency resource standard with a national RES would add to these benefits while accelerating the innovation and investments needed to transition the U.S. to a clean energy economy.”
Supporters of the legislation include Sierra Club, Union of Concerned Scientists, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.
Welch and Luján are members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
