We’re finally moving forward…at least for now June 19, 2009

I just received an email from Gore’s Repower America that prompted me to check out “The American Clean Energy and Security Act” (H.R. 2454), the critical climate legislation that was passed last month by The House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Its passage was an amazing step forward towards addressing our climate crises. The issue is complicated to be sure. And there are many hurdles to overcome before it passes through Congress this summer and fall. If you’re unfamiliar with the legislation, below is a synopsis from the House of Representative’s website. If you’re a member of Repower America, you can sign up to hear Gore’s special briefing on Tuesday, June 23, at 5 p.m. (PDT).

The American Clean Energy and Security Act will create millions of new clean energy jobs, save consumers hundreds of billions of dollars in energy costs, enhance America’s energy independence, and cut global warming pollution.  To meet these goals, the legislation has four titles:

• A clean energy title that promotes renewable sources of energy, carbon capture and sequestration technologies, clean electric vehicles, and the smart grid and electricity transmission.
• An energy efficiency title that increases energy efficiency across all sectors of the economy, including buildings, appliances, transportation, and industry.
• A global warming title that places limits on emissions of heat-trapping pollutants. This legislation would cut global warming pollution by 17% compared to 2005 levels in 2020, by 42% in 2030, and by 83% in 2050.  These are science-based targets and within the range agreed to by USCAP.
• A title that protects U.S. consumers and industry and promotes green jobs during the transition to a clean energy economy.