PTC extension stalls, the stakes grow higher

Have you called your member of Congress today to say you support clean energy solutions?

Have you asked your networks, friends, and family to do so?

Senate switchboard: 202-224-3121
House switchboard: 202-225-3121

The Senate bill that would have extended renewable energy tax credits stalled AGAIN today when Republicans blocked the measure on the floor. GOP leaders argued for a debate instead on the expansion of offshore oil-and-gas leasing. Hmmmm...

We need reliable, clean new sources of energy, not short-term drilling solutions!

And unfortunately, it seems that the GOP intends to push hard for drilling right now.

Further, rising gas prices combined with the absence of offered alternatives creates increased American support for drilling. According to the Pew Research Center, as of July:

Compared with just a few months ago, many more Americans are giving higher priority to more energy exploration, rather than more conservation. An increasing proportion also says that developing new sources of energy -- rather than protecting the environment -- is the more important national priority.

I find this poll very interesting (and dangerous at the moment) because Americans are demanding new sources of energy, not necessarily drilling. But drilling is being touted as "the solution." With nowhere else to turn it's no wonder that the public is more open to this dirty, short-term solution.

But it does not have to be this way and I think we can actually change the situation relatively easily. Americans are not major proponents of drilling, they are proponents of new energy sources. In the face of alternatives, public support for the dirty same-old, same-old will erode.

We can demonstrate public support for clean energy by calling our Congressional representatives. Sounds small but this simple action can have a real impact.

Have you called your member of Congress today to say you support clean energy solutions? I have. And I hope you will too.

Senate switchboard: 202-224-3121
House switchboard: 202-225-3121