Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) issued the following statement today commending the Obama Administration for the monumental step it has taken to reduce carbon emissions and seriously address climate change with the final Clean Power Plan.
“Today is an historic moment in the ongoing fight against climate change, and an important step in tackling the urgent need to reduce our carbon emissions.
“I stand with the President in enthusiastic support of the final Clean Power Plan, the single largest federal action to curb carbon pollution in the United States. In unprecedented fashion, EPA has worked with states and interested stakeholders to craft a flexible, functional plan to move the electric power industry into a low carbon future, while maintaining reliability and spurring innovation. I applaud the Administration’s courage, tenacity, and commitment to developing a strong final rule which is a critical part of our national strategy to reduce carbon pollution and protect the climate for future generations.
“I am especially pleased to see the Clean Power Plan’s focus on increased early deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects through the Clean Energy Incentive Program. This will help us realize significant greenhouse gas reductions much earlier than previously anticipated, and will be an important tool for states in developing their individual plans.
“As the President said earlier this year, ‘climate change can no longer be denied. It can’t be edited out. It can’t be omitted from the conversation.’ We have a moral obligation to take action on climate, to leave a livable planet for our children and grandchildren. Today’s announcement seizes this opportunity, and lays the foundation for a clean energy future. The Clean Power Plan outlines a path to cleaner air, better health, a safer climate, and a stronger economy."
