Energy

Congress must create a more sustainable energy policy that reduces our reliance on costly foreign oil, increases our utilization of domestic energy sources, and encourages alternative and renewable fuels. Energy independence can be achieved, and I am committed to making it a reality. I believe there are a number of fairly simple, straightforward steps we can take if we had the political courage to do so.

1. Use domestic oil before buying oil from the Middle East. We have 50 years worth of energy in Alaska and the deep waters of the Outer Continental Shelf. We can tap these in environmentally friendly ways and we should do it today.
2. Increase the number of refineries in the United States. In 1981, 324 refineries were operating in the United States. In 2005, that number stands at 148 – less than half. We have to increase domestic production if we are every going to see lower prices at the pump. I believe the government should provide incentives for new refinery construction and ease the bureaucratic red tape that keeps production in the U.S. at artificial lows. We should look at using old military bases as a place to house these facilities.
3. Get the Alma Energy Park up and running. The oil wells in Alma at the old Total plant still have oil in them – experts suggest that as much as half the oil is still there. We should utilize new technologies to inject CO2 into these wells and get that oil.
4. Continue to promote alternative fuels, vehicles, and infrastructure. I have authored laws that provide consumers with a tax credit for the purchase of a hybrid, low-sulfur diesel, and plug-in electric vehicle. My plan also provides incentives for gasoline retailers who convert their traditional fuel pumps and tanks to those using clean fuels. It is imperative that policies are in place to encourage the research and development of new, cellulosic fuels that use crop and animal waste and greater use of solar, wind, clean coal, and other new energy technologies.