Columns

Energy Bill is Due

Posted on: June 15, 2007

By Senator Larry Craig

A growing global economy, unsettled regional politics and increasing competition have combined with our own failure to expand energy production to drive oil prices to new heights—a fact reflected by Idaho’s $3 plus per gallon gasoline.

Along with a bipartisan coalition of Senators, I have spent this week debating the direction to take this country’s energy policy. I support a policy that will both decrease demand and increase supply. For instance, I am supporting expanding our use of alternative fuel sources like ethanol, increasing vehicle fuel efficiency standards, and expanding our exploration of domestic oil and gas resources.

I also believe energy security goes hand in hand with environmental responsibility. That’s why I am supporting a Clean Portfolio Standard. A Clean Portfolio Standard includes all available sources of clean generating electricity, including wind, solar, fuel cells, nuclear, hydropower, clean coal with carbon sequestration, and increased efficiency—and it allows all states to pick technology that fits with their local resources and geography.

It is this kind of comprehensive policy that will lead this country to a more secure and stable energy future.

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