WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. presidential candidates have raised energy issues at various times during their campaigns for 2008, showing the urgent need for a broad plan to secure vital energy supplies over the next several decades, according to the Institute for 21st Century Energy.
The Institute, an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, has researched various candidates' positions on energy issues and compiled a matrix of their positions. Our conclusions are a resource for voters, business leaders, and policy experts. The matrix is based on public statements and documents reflecting the candidates' views, and highlights areas of agreement as well as divergence with regard to energy issues. The matrix is available on the home page. "Our matrix indicates that, generally, presidential candidates consider energy security of significant importance to the public. We hope that all candidates continue to speak out on what is clearly one of the most important issues of our time" said General (Ret.) James L. Jones, the Institute President and CEO. The former Marine Corps Commandant and Supreme Allied Commander of NATO has identified our energy needs, the requirement for a cleaner environment, and our nation's decaying infrastructure as priorities that will affect our efforts to remain a nation of great influence in the 21st century."
General Jones also commented that "to date, the issue of how we achieve energy security has not received the public attention it deserves. This must change. American families and businesses are increasingly being put at greater risk as a result of higher energy costs, and our national security requirements demand much more clarity and cohesion than we've witnessed thus far."
"A comprehensive plan, and accompanying legislation, will provide our country with adequate, diverse, affordable, and clean energy. In order to achieve these goals, the nation will require greater energy efficiency, a secure and modernized infrastructure, and a commitment to expand our sources of energy to include the totality of the supply community. Americans should not think there is a single "silver bullet" that will solve our energy problems. Happily, however, there is clear evidence that an array of solutions, properly integrated into a long term plan developed for the common good, can form the basis for an optimistic energy future."
"Our next president must effectively articulate a strategic energy plan, be willing to back it up with strong action, and provide consistent leadership on the global stage if we are to avoid the serious problems that will most surely present themselves if we do not act responsibly. The time to do so is now."
ABOUT THE INSTITUTE: The mission of the Institute for 21st Century Energy is to unify energy stakeholders and policymakers behind a common strategy to ensure that America’s supply of fuels and power is adequate, diverse and affordable while protecting national security and improving the environment. The Institute also conducts international outreach to address global energy challenges.