Chamber Applauds Senate Passage of Energy Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The United States Chamber of Commerce today applauded the Senate for passing meaningful energy legislation.

"Millions of energy consumers - and those employed in energy intensive industries - are breathing a sigh of relief today," said Bruce Josten, Chamber executive vice president.

"Our nation is one step closer to a balanced, long-term energy strategy that ensures affordable and reliable energy supplies for our future."

Passage of energy legislation by the Senate is a necessary and long overdue step essential to easing consumers' worries about the increasing natural gas prices, fueling economic growth, encouraging wiser and more efficient use of energy and shoring up our nation's future economic and national security, according to the Chamber.

By 2025, the Energy Information Administration estimates that the U.S. will need 43 percent more energy - including 47 percent more petroleum, 54 percent more natural gas, 34 percent more coal, 54 percent more electricity, and 65 percent more renewable energy - just to meet the energy needs of a growing economy and growing population.

"For American business, workers and consumers, our nation's limited capacity to meet growing energy demand has been ignored too long," Josten said. "We look forward to the conference with the House and a final plan for the President to sign as soon as possible."

The Chamber also applauded Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Pete Domenici for his efforts in crafting a balanced energy strategy.

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

###

03-129