WildEarth Guardians

Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Stimulus Signing Underscores Need for Clean Energy Targets

Economic Recovery Plan Needs Federal Renewable Energy Standard to Follow up Spending, Safeguard the Climate
Contact: WildEarth Guardians

DENVER-As President Obama prepares to sign an historic economic recovery plan today, WildEarth Guardians urged the President to ensure that spending be followed swiftly by the adoption of renewable energy targets proposed last week by U.S. Senators Mark Udall of Colorado and Tom Udall of New Mexico.

“The rubber is hitting the road with the stimulus; now all we need to do is make sure we know where this road is going,” said Jeremy Nichols, Climate and Energy Program Director for WildEarth Guardians. “This economic recovery plan promises unprecedented tax incentives for wind and solar power, but without renewable energy standards to provide a cohesive vision, these incentives won’t solve our economic and environmental problems.”

Last week, the Senators Mark and Tom Udall introduced legislation that would establish a federal renewable energy standard of 25%. The proposal would ensure that electric utilities throughout the United States generate at least 25% of their energy from a suite of renewable sources, such as wind and solar, by 2025. Already, a majority of states have adopted renewable portfolio standards, many at 25% or higher.

The economic recovery plan commits more than $80 billion toward renewable energy, weatherization, and energy efficiency projects. However, the plan does not establish any goals for spending or meet any overarching renewable energy plan.

“We applaud President Obama and Senators Mark and Tom Udall. Wind and solar are always a wise investment, but we need targets to guide development of clean energy just like we need a blueprint to guide construction,” said Nichols. “With the threat of global warming mounting, we need to make sure we have a clear and ambitious goal that inspires companies to put people back to work and our Nation firmly on the path toward clean energy.”

WildEarth Guardians is dedicated to protecting and restoring the American West. Based in Santa Fe and with offices in Denver, Oakland, Phoenix, and Bozeman, WildEarth Guardians is a leading advocate for clean energy and a safer climate.