The federal energy bill signed into law this week requires a six-fold increase in the use of ethanol in gasoline, increases fuel efficiency standards for vehicles, sets energy efficiency standards for appliances, offers tax incentives for purchasing hybrid vehicles, phases out the use of incandescent light bulbs in favor of fluorescent and encourages green building construction.

“The new federal energy bill is a great Christmas present for everyone concerned about global warming and promoting our energy independence,” said Brian Hill, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council. “Increasing the use of biofuels and setting aggressive fuel efficiency standards for vehicles were two key strategies recommended in PEC’s Climate Roadmap for Pennsylvania in June.

“To meet our goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent by 2025 in Pennsylvania, we still need to take action on nearly 40 recommendations made in the Roadmap in the areas of renewable energy, agriculture, land use, forestry, carbon sequestration and energy efficiency.

“We congratulate and thank all of the federal legislators from Pennsylvania and around the country who supported the Energy Bill.

“There is, however, still work to be done in Pennsylvania. Final action is expected on state legislation in January sponsored by Rep. Greg Vitali (D-Delaware) and Sen. Ted Erickson (R-Delaware) that requires Pennsylvania to develop a Climate Change Action plan. This is a logical follow up to the federal energy bill today.”

NewsClips: Bush Signs Auto Fuel Economy Bill

Energy Bill Boosts Fuel-Economy Standards

Energy Bill to Save Billions

Energy Bill Fact Sheet

Platts Calls Fuel Efficiency Law a Great Win for Country

Editorial: Good Initial Step on Energy

Link: PEC Unveils Stakeholder-Drive Climate Change Roadmap

12/21/2007