Our country needs to take a new direction on energy policy. For far too
long we have been dependent on foreign oil to meet our energy needs.
This dependence threatens our security, hurts our economy, and is
costing Pennsylvania’s families more and more at the pump. Congressman
Altmire supports policies that will reduce gas prices, invest in
alternative sources of energy such as nuclear and coal, and increase
our energy independence.
Increase Domestic Oil Production
Congressman Altmire supports increasing the domestic production of oil
and voted to open up over 500 million acres for drilling by ending the
current moratorium on oil and gas leasing of the Outer Continental
Shelf (OCS). This is the largest single expansion of drilling in U.S.
history and permits access to an estimated 80 billion barrels of oil
and over 400 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. For more information,
see [House Votes to Lift Moratorium on Off-Shore Drilling].
Advance Nuclear and Coal Technologies
Western Pennsylvania’s vast coal resources and strong nuclear industry
are a tremendous source of economic growth for our region and
investment in them will make America more energy independent.
Congressman Altmire supports the construction of new nuclear reactors
and additional funding for clean coal technologies, such as carbon
capture and sequestration. Additionally, Congressman Altmire is working
with the University of Pittsburgh and local energy companies to address
workforce needs by creating new electrical, mining, and nuclear
engineering courses. For more information, see [Altmire Statement on McCain's Proposal to Invest in Nuclear Energy, Clean Coal]
Invest in Renewable Energy
Congressman Altmire believes that one way our country can reduce our
dependence on foreign oil is through incentives that encourage the use
and production of renewable energy. He supports tax breaks for American
companies that develop new, innovative energy efficient, and renewable
technologies that can help put our country on a path toward energy
independence. On October 3, 2008, over $17 billion in tax incentives
were signed into law to encourage the production of wind and solar
technologies and the construction of energy-efficient buildings and
homes. These investments will help create new American jobs and
strengthen our economy.
End Excessive Speculation
A 2006 non-partisan report found that $20 to $30 of the price of oil
was caused by excessive speculation or manipulation. Reforms should be
implemented to close the “Enron Loophole,” which has led to the
manipulation and excessive speculation in unregulated energy commodity
markets. On June 26, 2008, Congressman Altmire voted in favor of the
Energy Markets Emergency Act (H.R. 6377) to investigate and punish oil
speculators who are driving up oil prices.
Reduce Demand through Higher Car Fuel Efficiency
Last year, Congress passed the first increase in fuel economy standards
for cars and light trucks in 30 years, increasing the required average
fuel economy from 27 to 35 miles per gallon. When fully implemented,
these provisions will save the average American up to $1,000 a year at
the pump and reduce oil consumption by 4 million barrels a day.
Congressman Altmire voted in favor of the Energy Independence and
Security Act (H.R. 6), which was signed into law on December 19, 2007.
Release Oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve
Congressman Altmire voted in favor of the Comprehensive Energy Security
and Consumer Protection Act (H.R. 6899), which would release 70 million
barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to reduce gas
prices in the short-term. The release of 70 million barrels could
provide additional short-term relief to families struggling with the
high price of gas. President George H.W. Bush, President Clinton, and
President George W. Bush each tapped or suspended shipments to the SPR,
resulting in a 33 percent drop in oil prices in 1991; a 19 percent drop
in 2000; and a 9 percent drop in 2005. For more information, see [Altmire Call for Action on Comprehensive Energy Plan Produces Results].
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