Calling All Governors!

On July 2, 2008 Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts signed the Green Communities Act into law, a bill that put "Massachusetts at the forefront of clean energy policies and the development of alternative fuel sources." Governor Patrick said after signing the bill, "this legislation will reduce electric bills, promote the development of renewable energy, and stimulate the clean energy industry that is taking root here in the Commonwealth." (What a smart man!) 


As a result of signing the Green Communities Act into law The Department of Energy Resources' Green Communities Designation and Grant Program was established. Today, this program has named 21 new cities and towns that will now be eligible for over $3.7 million in grants for local renewable power and energy efficiency projects. These 21 cities and towns join 53 other municipalities that have received funding from this program over the past 3 years. The cities and towns receive these grants only after meeting five "clean energy benchmarks," one of which is requiring the city to purchase only fuel-efficient vehicles for municipal use. The grants, capped at $1 million, and based at $125,000, are funded through auctions of carbon emissions permits.

Governor Deval Patrick stated today, "We are making real progress in achieving a clean energy future for the Commonwealth, one community at a time. These investments encourage energy savings, create jobs and protect our environment - boosting our economy and improving our quality of life." It is encouraging to see the Massachusetts Governor so enthusiastic about this program, I only hope that Governors all over the country look to this state for inspiration on how to spur growth in their own communities. 

Lights Out

The House Republicans have managed to pass an amendment to the 2012 Energy and Water Appropriations Act that prohibits funding to implement light bulb efficiency standards. Light bulb efficiency standards that were set forth in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, passed by George W. Bush and several Republican congressmen. 

Rep. Michael Burgess

The amendment was introduced by Representative Michael Burgess (R-TX) who feels that, "the Federal Government has no right to tell [him] or any other citizen what type of light bulb to use at home." Representative Burgess and those who voted in favor of the amendment are, in effect, reversing much of the progress made by the light bulb industry. Energy efficiency is obviously of no concern to these members of congress and the fact that the efficiency standards enacted in 2007 were actually supported by the lighting industry seems to hold no merit either. 


There is no good explanation for the Republicans blatant attack on clean energy policy, other than their deep seeded desire to fund successful oil companies and eliminate all other competition. While the House Republicans are busy patting themselves on the back for de-funding the "light bulb bill" the rest of the country is still wondering where all the jobs are...

The Colbert Report on Talisman Terry

Looks like Mr. Colbert has discovered Talisman Terry as well! (his take is much funnier)

The Colbert Report	Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c
Anti-frack Attacks
www.colbertnation.com
Colbert Report Full Episodes Political Humor & Satire Blog Video Archive

And, if you haven't already make sure you check out Gasland parts 1-7 on YouTube.