U.S. Representative Max Sandlin, co-chairman of the Blue Dog Energy Task Force, said,  "The Blue Dogs have adopted a comprehensive and balanced energy plan that increases energy supply and promotes greater energy efficiency as a road map to solving both short and long-term energy challenges."

The Blue Dog Energy Plan emphasizes a balanced, market-based approach to increasing domestic energy supplies and enhancing our energy infrastructure.  The plan proposes a series of tax incentives designed to increase the production of traditional fossil fuels and renewable energy sources that use the most energy efficient technologies.  Additionally, the plan calls for promoting energy efficiency by expanding the use of renewable energy sources, encouraging consumers and producers to invest in energy efficient products, and developing new energy technologies that are both efficient and promote the greatest level of conservation at home, in business and in industry.  

"Providing consumers across the country with reliable, affordable energy doesn't have to come at the cost of the environment," said Rep. Jim Turner, Blue Dog Policy Co-Chair.  "This comprehensive plan balances the importance of maintaining adequate environmental standards with the need to increase domestic energy production while encouraging conservation."

The Blue Dogs recognize the need to expand and improve our existing energy infrastructure, while also creating a diverse energy portfolio.  The plan calls for measures that overhaul America's aging energy infrastructure, encourage investment in gas and oil pipelines, and upgrade our electric transmission and distribution lines.   The plan also promotes a diverse fuel supply mix by investing in clean coal technology, streamlining the process of re-licensing hydroelectric facilities, extending both the wind energy production tax credit and renewable resource credit.

"Throughout the process of developing the Blue Dog proposal, Representative Sandlin and the Energy Task Force have held meetings with a broad range of groups, including producers of energy, distributors and end users.  The Coalition has developed a balanced plan that we hope will provide Americans with reliable and affordable energy sources," added Rep. Allen Boyd, Blue Dog Communications Co-Chair.
 
For a copy of the Blue Dog Energy Plan, please visit the Blue Dog website at www.bluedogdemocrats.com.