Bipartisan Bill Promotes Energy Efficiency (S.1115)
April 17, 2007
12:09 PM
Sens. Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), Pete Domenici (R-NM) and Richard Lugar (R-IN) this week introduced bipartisan legislation (S.1115) aimed at improving efficiency in vehicles, buildings, consumer appliances and industrial equipment. Currently, other co-sponsors include Sens. Daniel Akaka (D-HI), Larry Craig (R-ID), Byron Dorgan (D-ND), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Ken Salazar (D-CO), Olympia Snowe (R-ME) and John Kerry (D-MA).
“The Energy Efficiency Promotion Act will reduce consumers’ future energy bills by getting more from the energy we produce,” Bingaman said. “High energy prices and the threat of global warming are very much on Congress’s agenda this year. This bill is an effective step toward addressing both problems.”
“Improving energy efficiency should play a significant role in our efforts to tackle America’s energy challenges. I’m pleased to join Chairman Bingaman to introduce legislation that will allow consumers to save money by reducing the amount of energy they use. Our bill also presents the federal government with an opportunity to lead the way by improving the efficiency of our own facilities. As we provide incentives and encourage others to make their buildings, lighting and appliances more efficient, it is appropriate that we make sure the federal government does the same,” said Domenici.
Senate Energy Committee will hold a legislative hearing on S.1115 next Monday, April 23, at 3:00 p.m. in Dirksen 366. The bill includes initiatives to promote the efficient use of energy, reduce oil consumption and heighten energy efficiency in six key areas:
- Promoting the development and use of advanced lighting technologies
- Expediting new efficiency standards for appliances and industrial equipment
- Promoting high efficiency vehicles, advanced batteries and energy storage
- Setting aggressive goals for reducing gasoline consumption and improving overall energy productivity in the U.S.
- Promoting Federal leadership in energy efficiency and renewable energy
- Assisting States, local governments and utilities in energy efficiency efforts
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