The national security and economic well-being of our nation are predicated on the affordable, environmentally sustainable supply and efficient use of energy. Significant changes in the way that the United States both produces and consumes energy have occurred in recent years. In order to capitalize on these changes, the infrastructure used to move energy resources from production facilities to markets must be evaluated, and where necessary, modernized and updated. Healthy and robust energy markets are a component of economic growth and job creation, and states have incorporated a number of innovative measures to update and improve the resiliency of their electric power grids and product delivery systems.
Responding to these energy challenges, governors have pioneered a wide array of innovative energy policies in their states. For example, governors have launched state energy efficiency programs and renewable electricity standards; initiated public-private partnerships to finance projects; adopted alternative transportation fuels standards; created an alternative method to provide low-cost natural gas to an area with high energy costs; fostered technology advances within energy production industries; led in the development of efficient and effective regulation; and created state and regional climate change initiatives.
Governors call on Congress to supplement state efforts by promoting federal policies that encourage environmentally responsible, secure, efficient and affordable energy production and use. Federal policy should:
- Enhance the nation’s energy security;
- Promote domestic energy production, research and jobs;
- Reduce energy price volatility;
- Incorporate state regulatory decisions;
- Mitigate outstanding environmental risks;
- Promote America’s diverse range of energy sources;
- Reduce dependence on overseas sources of energy;
- Increase energy efficiency and conservation;
- Promote innovative methods to finance energy projects;
- Enhance U.S. global competitiveness;
- Provide federal budget flexibility to assist states in delivering on their multi-year energy plans.
Time limited (effective Winter Meeting 2019 – Winter Meeting 2021). Adopted Winter Meeting 2019.
