America’s energy future is at a crossroads. Everyone can agree that we must reduce our dependence on foreign oil, while strengthening our economy and creating jobs. But how do we get there? The path embraced by the fossil fuel industry claims that we can mine and drill our way to energy independence without regard for the long-term implications. We embrace an alternative vision that looks to diversify and strengthen the economy through proactive solutions that move us toward sustainable energy independence; reducing our carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels by capitalizing on the various resources available in different regions across America; and realizing their potential to create the good green jobs of the future.
A new report by the Center for American Progress and The Center for the Next Generation, called “Regional Energy, National Solutions: A Real Energy Vision for America,” examines non-fossil-fuel-based economic development strategies in six major regions of the country. These solutions highlight the current success and future potential of the clean energy economy, especially when these strategies are tailored to the specific needs and strengths of each region. America deserves better than the “one size fits all, drill everywhere and now” strategy, put forth by the American Petroleum Institute, that is designed to pad the pockets of the industries of yesterday. Our vision shows the way.
Opening remarks:
Darryl Banks, Vice President for Energy Policy, Center for American Progress
Kate Gordon, Director of Advanced Energy and Sustainability, The Center for the Next Generation and Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress
Keynote speaker:
Governor Lincoln D. Chafee (I-RI)
Featured speakers:
John Arensmeyer, Founder and CEO, Small Business Majority
Anne Kelly, Director, Business for Innovative Climate and Energy Policy (BICEP)
Moderated by:
Tom Perriello, President and Chief Executive Officer, Center for American Progress Action Fund; Counselor for Policy, Center for American Progress