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Federal renewables bill one step closer

D.C to follow states’ clean energy leadership

Americans know that it’s time to make a commitment to clean energy. Scientists and innovators have proven that our potential for renewable energy is unlimited. State legislatures have proven that the political will is there. And, with the House of Representatives’ recent approval of a national Renewable Electricity Standard, Congress is showing that they’re ready to follow the states’ lead.

“This bill marks a clean energy breakthrough in the U.S. Congress,” said Washington, D.C., office director Anna Aurilio. “The House of Representatives improved a good energy bill by adding a 15 percent renewable electricity standard that will dramatically increase clean renewable power in this country.”

As we’ve reported before, decision-makers in the states had responded to the growing energy crisis and lack of federal action by adopting their own renewable energy standards. State Environment groups led that effort.

In June, Oregon joined 22 other states that have clean energy goals—they’re mandating 25 percent of Oregon’s electricity to come from renewable energy. Altogether, these 23 states represent nearly half of our country’s population.

“Renewable energy standards are states’ most powerful tools for taking control of their energy future,” said Jeremiah Baumann, an advocate with Environment Oregon. “And homegrown renewable energy brings with it a huge boost for rural economies and a major cut in global warming pollution.”

Since 2006, our allies across the country have led efforts in seven other states to adopt or accelerate their renewable energy standards (Washington, Arizona, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Colorado, Connecticut and Maryland).

Pennsylvania’s clean energy standard—18 percent by 2020—will lead to the creation of 1,000 quality jobs. The wind turbine manufacturer Gamesa invested in four manufacturing plants outside Philadelphia, spurred by the opening market for clean energy.

Bolstered by advances we have made in the states, we’ve been pushing Congress to adopt a strong renewable energy policy for the entire nation. The recent House energy bill marks an important step forward.