U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-21) voted in favor of the American Clean Energy and Security Act Friday, a bill that will create millions of new clean energy jobs, protect the environment, and enhance America’s energy independence. The House passed the bill by a vote of 219-212.
“This bill is a bold step towards changing our nation’s direction on energy policy, reducing our gluttonous dependence on fossil fuels, and sparking a new economy built on innovation that creates American jobs that cannot be exported,” said Rep. Tonko. “It’s crucial that we act now and push forward with research and development on cutting edge alternative energy technologies, because it’s our opportunity to be the leader in the 21st Century global economy.”
The American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES) will reduce pollution by limiting emissions from electric utilities, oil refineries and other major sources. The bill will also make the country more energy efficient by promoting all forms of American clean energy, including wind, solar, geothermal, and biomass. It supports private investment in nuclear power, cleaner coal technology, and new efficient American vehicle technology. It will also cut the use of oil and petroleum products by two million barrels a day by 2030, which is about as much as is currently imported from the Persian Gulf. The bill also contains a package of consumer protection provisions, which include energy rebates and tax credits.
Here is a breakdown of the impact that this bill will have on the 21st Congressional District:
•By investing in clean and renewable energy sources, the ACES bill would create 109,000 jobs in New York State and 3,800 jobs in the 21st Congressional District.
•According to an analysis by the Congressional Budget Office, the bill would cost the average household in the district only $169 annually, or 46 cents per day.
•An estimated 50,000 households in the district will see a net income gain as a result of the consumer protection provisions in the bill.
•About 40% of the households in the district – an estimated 105,000 households – net average annual costs will be less than $40.
An EPA analysis of the ACES legislation also found that the bill would reduce consumer spending on utility bills by about 7% by 2020. Based on current utility spending data, this would result in an average savings of $130 per household.
Rep Tonko added: “The 21st Congressional District and the Capital Region as a whole is poised to be a leader in the new innovation economy. With companies like General Electric and Global Foundries, and our strong mix of public and private higher education institutions, we are well positioned to take advantage of an economy based on clean energy and high technology.”
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