Earlier this year, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an energy bill that would require utilities to generate at least 15% of our electricity from clean energy sources. A study by the Union of Concerned Scientists showed that the House-passed national renewable electricity standard would save families and businesses $13 to $18.1 billion in lower electricity and natural gas bills by 2020, while curbing global warming pollution and creating new jobs.
However, the Senate passed their own version of the bill that DID NOT include the clean energy standard passed by the House (though it did include important steps to improve gas mileage). With the clock ticking before the Senate leaves for the holidays (for a nice, long vacation), Environment America doesn’t have the votes they need to pass the renewable electricity standard in the Senate.
Call your senators today and tell them to send a bill including the renewable electricity standard to the President’s desk by the end of the year. If you don’t know your senators’ names, go to the Senate site to find the senator from your state, or just call 202-224-3121 and tell the operator where you’re from. They will patch you through to the correct office.
If your senator is available (if not, talk to someone and ask to leave a message), use this message: “Hi, my name is ______, and I’m from ______. I’m calling to urge Senator ______ to support legislation to require utilities to generate 15% of our electricity from clean, renewable sources.”
Make note of what that senator or messenger says, and go to http://www.environmentamerica.org/action/energy/call-senate to fill out the form. Of course, the second action isn’t necessary, but it is helpful. The first action is imperative, so call today!
Posted by FA Editors at 4:53 PM PST
