Energy Independence and Conservation

Jeff Merkley has continued Oregon’s long history and reputation as a national leader on environmental policy. Rising energy prices and increased carbon emissions make it essential that America take immediate action to combat global warming and that is the kind of leadership Jeff will provide.

Jeff Merkley has developed a four-part plan to reduce carbon emissions and pollution and promote renewable energy. As Oregon’s next U.S. Senator, Jeff will fight to get his plan implemented.

Investment in Renewable Energy

The first part of Jeff’s climate change plan is to make historic investments in renewable energy, which includes setting a 25 percent renewable energy national standard by 2025. We'll get there by investing in clean energy sources such as wind, solar and bio-fuels. We'll pay for it by closing tax loopholes for big oil companies. Jeff also strongly supports increasing the fuel economy standards for cars driven in the U.S. to 35 miles per gallon.

Reducing Carbon Emissions

The second part of Jeff’s climate change plan involves a reduction in carbon emissions. This begins with Jeff's full support of the Boxer-Sanders Bill S.309 which calls for an 80 percent reduction in climate-change-causing pollutants by 2050. In addition, Jeff will work with Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to pass the "Reducing Demand through Electricity Grid Intelligence Act." This bill will encourage the development of a nationwide intelligent energy grid system through the broader use of new technologies. It will also improve energy efficiency and save consumers money on their electricity bills.

Incentives for Cities to Reduce Climate Change

Part three of Jeff's plan offers incentives to cities for the reduction of climate change emissions. Taking a cue from the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection agreement, Jeff will push for policies and programs that reduce global warming pollution levels to 7 percent or more below 1990 levels by 2012. Jeff will also work for clear timetables and emissions limits and flexible, market-based systems of tradable allowances among emitting industries. This part of Jeff's plan also includes incentives for cities to plant trees to increase shade and absorb CO2.

Investment in Research and Development

Part four calls for significant investment in research for conservation, alternative energy and carbon capture/storage. Jeff's plan outlines an increase in efficiency for cooling, heating and lighting appliances by 25 percent. We must also have an investment in carbon capture storage systems which capture CO2 and store it in the ground at coal- and natural-gas-fired plants. We also need to increase solar power by 700 times current capacity, and wind power by 50 times current capacity. New investments in bio-fuel research with an emphasis on cellulosic ethanol and crops that have a complete bio-fuel support cycle are necessary.

Posted November 7, 2007
Issues