U.S. Chamber Calls Energy a Priority for Next Congress -- AGA Report Warns of Possible Price Volatility

Washington, D.C. - The United States Chamber of Commerce today called on Congress and the administration to make passage of a comprehensive energy policy one of its top priorities for the New Year, citing growing concern over price volatility and potential interruptions of energy supply.

A study released today by the American Gas Association underscored the Chamber's position on national energy legislation, pointing out specific challenges to meeting America's energy needs. Energy demand has increased 30 percent since 1973, but production has only increased 14 percent.

"Congress and the administration should heed warnings that American businesses will be subject to greater supply uncertainty and price volatility if access to supply and multiple and overlapping government barriers are not addressed in the near future," said Bruce Josten, Chamber executive vice president

While energy efficiency gains have been dramatic, and further efficiency gains will be made, they will not be enough to offset growing energy demand. Additional energy supplies are needed. Restrictions on access to domestic energy supplies must be re-evaluated in light of technological improvements that have made energy exploration and production more environmentally sensitive.

The Chamber is a co-founder of the Alliance for Energy and Economic Growth, a coalition of 1,350 energy consumers, producers, and distributors from all sectors of the economy advocating a comprehensive national energy policy.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses of every size, sector and region.

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