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I am concerned about the growing risks of over dependence on a finite energy source that exposes America's economy and national security to the passing impulses of overseas petroleum barons.
We must avoid the mistaken belief that we can drill or battle our way out of our energy problem. Only greater efficiency and diversification of our fuel choices will provide lasting energy security.
I will introduce and support legislation to expand the use of alternative vehicle technologies, provide tax incentives for the purchase of vehicles using alternative fuel sources and, over the next five years, legislation to increase Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for cars and trucks to 40 miles per gallon. Raising the CAFE standard would save over 4 million barrels of oil per day, approximately the daily amount the US imports from the Middle East.
In partnership with private industry we put a man on the moon in eight years; with the same resolve we can significantly reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. I am calling for legislation to fully fund the research, development and deployment of alternative and renewable energy sources through tax incentives.
Experts agree that the worlds supply of oil will peak. An objective look at the alternatives to Peak Oil points to the Nation's untapped oil shale as a strategically located, short-term source of reliable, affordable, and secure oil. The technology exists to extract this oil; however, until recently, it was not cost effective. Due to the rising price of oil, the financial dynamics are changing. The Energy Information Administration estimates the world supply of oil shale to be in excess of 2.9 trillion barrels, of which, over 1 trillion barrels are in the United States. I will introduce legislation to promote further investigation into this alternative and encourage the In-situ exploration and refining of oil shale as a short time alternative to foreign oil.
Legislation to support alternative energy sources should not necessitate the taxing of the American people as an incentive to altering their daily lives. Making Americans pay more money for energy is not the answer. To encourage conservation, I support excise and sales tax credits for the purchase of energy efficient vehicles, appliances, the purchase or construction of energy efficient buildings and for conversion to alternative energy sources.
I support federal investment in local transportation projects to develop clean, safe and energy efficient public transportation systems. This investment, including the Purple line in Montgomery County among others, will open up access to our metropolitan areas from the suburbs and help reduce the number of vehicles on Maryland’s congested roads.
Energy efficiency and self-reliance must be the centerpiece of our nation’s energy policy.
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