|
This memorandum provides brief summaries of legislation introduced and/or acted upon by the 110th Congress during its first two weeks of business. Additional information is available through the Alliance to Save Energy’s policy team.
House Legislation
H.R. 6 “CLEAN Energy Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Rahall (D-WV) and others, H.R. 6 seeks to reduce US dependency on foreign oil through investment in clean, renewable, and alternative energy sources. The bill creates a “Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve” to invest in alternative energy and accelerate the use of clean domestic renewable energy resources and fuels, promote the use of energy-efficient products, and increase research for energy-efficiency and renewable technologies. The bill was adopted by a vote of 264 to 163 on January 18th; the bill was placed on the Senate calendar on January 22nd, 2007. A motion to proceed to consideration of the bill in the Senate was made on June 7th, 2007. On June 21st, 2007, the bill was passed by the Senate by a 65-27 vote. The bill was then reintroduced in the House on June 28th, 2007, as H.R. 2950, by Congresswoman Wilson (R-NM).
H.R. 76
Introduced by Congressman Bartlet (R-MD), H.R. 76 amends tax code to increase number of hybrid and diesel vehicles that are eligible for the tax incentives under the alternative motor vehicle act from 60,000 to 250,000.
H.R. 84 “Energy Efficient Buildings Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman Biggert (R-IL), H.R. 84 establishes a pilot program, through the Department of Energy, that will award grants to businesses and organizations for new construction of energy-efficient buildings, or major renovations of buildings to improve their efficiency. The bill authorizes $10 million per year for five years to carry out this program.
H.R. 85 “Energy Technology Transfer Act”
Introduced by Congresswoman Biggert (R-IL), H.R. 85 creates a network of Advanced Energy Technology Transfer Centers that will meet needs and opportunities for increased energy efficiency in manufactured and site-built homes, including construction, renovation, and retrofit. On February 28, 2007, H.R. 85 was considered by the House Committee on Science and Technology, and was reported by voice vote. On March 12, H.R. 85 was put on suspended rules and passed by a vote of 395-1. The Senate received the bill the following day and referred the bill to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
H.R. 86 “Oil and Gas-to-Alternatives Swap Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman Biggert (R-IL), H.R. 86 repeals the tax credit for facilities producing coke or coke gas and also repeals the limitation on the number of new qualified hybrid and advanced lean-burn technology vehicles eligible for a tax credit, as well as extending the termination date of the credits for lean burn and certain hybrid vehicles.
HR 121 and S. 506 “High-Performance Green Buildings Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Doyle (D-PA) in the House and Senator Lautenberg in the Senate H.R. 121-S. 506 requires the Director of the GSA to establish an Office of High-Performance Green Buildings to coordinate all federal offices, as well as a Green Building Advisory Committee. Studies conducted under this bill will include existing and new structures. The bill authorizes $4 million per year for six years to carry out this activity.
H.R. 182 “TEAM up for Energy Independence Act”
Introduced by Congresswoman Lofgren (D-CA), H.R. 182 would impose an excise tax on automobiles sold in the US that are not alternatively fueled. Percentage of tax imposed is as follows, by year:
2007- 5%; 2008- 10%; 2009- 20%; 2010- 40%; 2011 and after- 80%.
H.R. 345 “Cool and Efficient Buildings Investment Act”
Introduced by Congressman Hoekstra (R-MI), H.R. 345 amends tax code to create a 20 year depreciation recovery period for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or commercial refrigeration systems installed in nonresidential buildings and placed in service in calendar years 2007 and 2008.
H.R. 364
Introduced by Congressman Gordon (D-TN), H.R. 364 establishes the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) within the Department of Energy. One goal of ARPA-E is to accelerate innovation in energy and the environment for both traditional and alternative energy sources and in energy efficiency mechanisms to decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign energy sources. On May 10th, the bill was ordered to be reported as amended out of the Committee on Science and Technology.
H.R. 539 “Buildings for the 21st Century Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman Schwartz (D-PA), H.R. 539 increases the amount of deductions for energy efficient commercial buildings, as well as extending the credit from 12/31/2008 to 12/31/2013.
H.R. 550 and S. 590 “Securing America’s Energy Independence Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman McNulty (D-NY) in the House and Senator Smith (R-OR) in the Senate, H.R. 550 and S. 590 amend tax code to extend existing tax credits on solar energy property from 2008 to 2017, and on fuel cell property from 2007 to 2016. Also extends the existing tax credit on residential energy efficient property from 2008 to 2016.
H.R. 570 and S. 331
Introduced by Congressman Rogers (R-MI) in the House and Senator Thune (R-SD), H.R. 570 and S. 331 create the “Energy Security Fund” within the Department of the Treasury, which will collect funds from violations of the corporate average fuel economy program. These funds will be used to provide grants to expand the availability to consumers of alternative fuels.
H.R. 589 “Get Real Incentives to Drive Plug-in Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Inslee (D-WA), H.R. 589 authorizes $500 million to the Secretary of Transportation for the years 2008 through 2012. The Secretary will then use the funds to make grants to domestic motor vehicle manufacturing or production facilities for research and development on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The Secretary will also found a pilot program to determine how best to integrate plug-in hybrid electric vehicles into the electric power grid and into the overall transportation infrastructure. The bill also creates a plug-in hybrid motor vehicle credit of no more than $3,000 for the purchase of an eligible plug-in hybrid vehicle, as well as mandating that at least 10 percent of vehicles purchased by any Executive agency be plug-in hybrid vehicles.
H.R. 620 and S. 280 “Climate Stewardship and Innovation Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Olver (D-MA) in the House and Senator Lieberman (I-CT) in the Senate, H.R. 620 and S. 280 require the DOE to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the deployment of energy-efficiency measures, including appropriate technologies, by large commercial customers by providing for audits. The program shall encourage large users of electricity or natural gas to obtain energy audits by providing incentives.
H.R. 656
Introduced by Congressman Reichert (R-WA), H.R. 656 raises the automobile fuel efficiency standards with the goal of reducing the amount of oil used for fuel by automobiles in the U.S. by 10 percent beginning in 2017. The bill also creates a credit trading system among automobile manufacturers, allowing a manufacturer that exceeds fuel economy standards to sell credits to another manufacturer trying to achieve the same goal.
H.R. 670 and S. 339 “Dependence Reduction through Innovation in Vehicles and Energy”
Introduced by Congressman Engel (D-NY) in the House and by Senator Bayh (D-IN) in the Senate, H.R. 670 and S. 339 call for reductions in oil usage, culminating in 10 million barrels per day in 2031. Also introduces measures to create fuel efficient vehicle innovation, such as idle reduction technologies for school buses, new fuel economy standards for heavy duty vehicles, and tax credits for idling reductions.
H.R. 729 “Home Energy Generation Act”
Introduced by Congressman Inslee (D-WA), H.R. 729 amends the Public Utility Regulatory Act of 1978 to promote energy independence and self-sufficiency by providing for the use of net metering by certain small electric energy generation systems. The bill would enable small businesses, residences, schools, churches, farms with small electric generation units, and other retail electric customers who generate electric energy to return or sell surplus electric energy on the open market.
H.R. 765
Introduced by Congressman Weller (R-IL), H.R. 765 amends tax code to increase and extend the alternative motor vehicle credit for certain flexible fuel hybrid vehicles. Under the new formula, cars that are equal to 125 to 225% of current city fuel economy standards are eligible for credits ranging from $1,500 to $3,500.
H.R. 778
Introduced by Congressman Weller (R-IL), H.R. 778 amends tax code to make the residential energy efficiency property credit permanent.
H.R. 793
Introduced by Congressman Weller (R-IL), H.R. 793 amends tax code to extend the residential energy efficiency property credit.
H.R. 817 “Finding the Ultimate Energy Lifeline Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Price (R-GA), H.R. 817 directs the President to create a working group to identify strategies and methods to reduce the consumption of foreign oil to less than 25 percent of total Unites States motor vehicle fuel consumption no later than 2015.
H.R. 969
Introduced by Congressman Udall (D-NM), H.R. 969 amends the Public Utilities Regulatory Policy Act of 1978 to establish a Federal renewable energy portfolio standard for certain electric utilities.
H.R. 1133 “Freedom through Renewable Energy Expansion Act”
Introduced by Congresswoman Berkley (D-NV), H.R. 1133 provides for the energy independence of the United States through several measures. First, the bill repeals certain tax subsidies for the oil and gas industry. The bill calls for the Corporate Average Fuel Economy for automobiles manufactured after the year 2016 to be no less than 33 miles per gallon, as well as creating a renewable portfolio standard that calls for 20 percent of all energy sold to consumers be from renewable sources by the year 2016.
H.R. 1186 “United States-India Energy Security Cooperation Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Wilson (R-SC), H.R. 1186 promotes global energy security through increased cooperation between the United States and India in diversifying sources of energy, stimulating development of alternative fuels, developing and deploying technologies that promote the clean and efficient use of coal, and improving energy efficiency.
H.R. 1215
Introduced by Congressman Rogers (R-MI), H.R. 1215 authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make loan guarantees for advanced conservation and fuel efficiency motor vehicle technology projects. The bill states that the aggregate amount of the guarantees shall not exceed $20 billion.
H.R. 1300 “Program for Real Energy Security Act”
Introduced by Congressman Hoyer (D-MD), H.R. 1300 establishes a National Commission on Energy Security and Transition to New Fuels, which will make recommendations to the Congress and the President on reducing U.S. independence on foreign oil according to a schedule for national energy independence over the next 5, 10, 15, and 20 years. The bill will also create a New Manhattan Center for High Efficiency Vehicles to carry out a program consisting of a collaborative effort of industry, government, and academia to support research, development, demonstration and commercial application activities related to high efficiency vehicles.
H.R. 1331
Introduced by Congressman Doggett (D-TX), H.R. 1331 amends tax code to provide a tax credit of no more than $3,000 for new qualified plug-in hybrid motor vehicles.
H.R. 1385 and S. 822 “Extend the Energy Efficiency Incentives Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman McDermott (D-WA) and Senator Snowe (R-ME), H.R. 1385 and S. 822 amend the tax code to improve and extend certain energy-related tax provisions for both business and non-business entities. In addition, the bill provides incentives for energy savings certifications.
H.R. 1451 “New Options Petroleum Energy Conservation Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Lungren (R-CA), H.R. 1451 provides incentives for consumers to use less oil, including a climate neutral combustion credit, credits for solar energy property, credits residential energy efficient property, and credits for property used in the refining of ethanol, methanol, and biodiesel.
H.R. 1500 “Gas Stabilization Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman DeFazio (D-OR), H.R. 1500 creates tax credits of up to $6,000 for consumers who purchase fuel-efficient American-made passenger vehicles, as well as setting the average fuel economy for vehicles at 40 miles per gallon by the model year 2022.
H.R. 1506 and S. 767/768 “Fuel Economy Reform Act”
Introduced by Congressman Markey (D-MA) in the House and Senator Obama (D-IL), H.R 1506 and S. 767/768 create benchmarks for the average fuel economy for passenger vehicles, stating that the standard average fuel economy shall be increased by 4 percent per year for model years 2009 through 2011, will average 27.5 miles per gallon by model year 2012, and will average 35 miles per gallon by model year 2018.
H.R. 1547
Introduced by Congresswoman Harman (D-CA), H.R 1547 states that the Secretary of Energy will issue regulations that prohibit the sale of light bulbs that emit less than 60 lumens per watt, effective January 1, 2012; prohibit the sale of light bulbs that emit less than 90 lumens per watt, effective January 1, 2016, and prohibit the sale of light bulbs that emit less than 120 lumens per watt, effective January 1, 2020.
H.R. 1590 “Safe Climate Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Waxman (D-CA), H.R. 1590, in addition to provisions dealing with greenhouse gas emissions and a national renewable energy standard, introduces a national energy efficiency standard, requiring suppliers to secure annual savings (reaching 1 percent of sales in 2012) through end-use efficiency improvements at customer facilities.
H.R. 1596 “Clean and Green Renewable Energy Tax Credit Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Ferguson (R-NJ), H.R. 1596 amends tax code to provide and extend incentives for renewable energy and conservation.
H.R. 1705 “BRIGHT Energy Savings Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Lipinski (D-IL), H.R. 1705 directs the Administrator of General Services to install energy efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs in constructing, altering, and maintaining public buildings.
H.R. 1716
Introduced by Congressman McCaul (R-TX), H.R. 1716 authorizes higher education curriculum development and graduate training in advanced energy and green building technologies.
H.R. 1768
Introduced by Congressman Gordon (D-TN), H.R. 1768 would authorize the incorporation of innovative energy technologies derived from federally-sponsored research and development and demonstration programs into federal buildings.
H.R. 1915 “American Automobile Industry Promotion Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Castle (R-DE), H.R. 1915 directs the Secretary of Energy to conduct a program of research, development, demonstration, and commercial application for electric drive transportation technology.
H.R. 1920 and S. 1151 “Health Care for Hybrids Act”
Introduced by Congressman Inslee (D-WA) in the House and Senator Obama (D-IL) in the Senate, H.R. 1920/S. 1151 establishes a program to reimburse eligible domestic automobile manufacturers for the costs incurred in providing health benefits to their retired employees. These eligible domestic automobile manufacturers will then invest an amount equal to or more than 50 percent of health savings derived by the manufacturer as a result of its retiree health care costs being covered under the program in fuel efficient automobile technologies.
H.R. 1945 “Energy for Our Future Act”
Introduced by Congressman Shays (R-CT), H.R. 1945 works to improve energy efficiency in several areas. First, the bill works to put more fuel-efficient vehicles on the roads by repealing the limit on the number of cars eligible for the alternative motor vehicle credit; by creating an energy-efficient motor vehicles manufacturing credit; and by raising automobile fuel economy standards to 40 miles per gallon after the year model year 2016. The bill also works to lower energy use and cost by creating a federal renewable portfolio standard, requiring that 20 percent of energy used by the federal government come from renewable sources by the year 2020. Additionally, the bill extends and modifies the credits for performance based energy improvement, for both business and non-business property.
H.R. 1965
Introduced by Congressman Pomeroy (D-ND), H.R. 1965 amends the tax code to modify the credit to holders of clean renewable energy bonds.
H.R. 2039 “Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Levin (D-MI), H.R. 2039 amends the tax code to increase the credit available for refueling alternative vehicles.
H.R. 2083
Introduced by Congressman Gordon (D-TN), H.R. 2083 amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to improve energy standards for home appliances, including refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, freezers, residential clothes washers and dishwashers, and dehumidifiers.
H.R. 2112 “Purchasing Low-Emission Vehicles for Use in Government (PLUG) Act”
Introduced by Congressman Israel (D-NY), H.R. 2112 amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to require the Federal Government to acquire not fewer than 50,000 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The Federal government shall acquire such vehicles during a 5-fiscal-year period beginning after the date on which the Secretary of Energy determines that such vehicles are commercially available.
H.R. 2137 and S. 1525 “Super-Efficient Appliance Incentives and Market Transformation Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Levin (D-MI) in the House and Senator Smith (R-OR) in the Senate, H.R. 2137 and S. 1525 amend the tax code to modify the energy efficient appliance credit for appliances produced after 2007. The new credit will apply to dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators, and dehumidifiers.
H.R. 2154 “Rural Energy for America Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman Herseth Sandlin (D-SD), H.R. 2154 allows the Secretary of Energy to make competitive grants to eligible entities to provide rebates for farmers, ranchers, rural school districts, and rural small businesses to purchase renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements.
H.R. 2261 “Rural America Energy Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Lucas (R-OK), H.R. 2261 increases the diversity and independence of the United States energy supply by providing encouragement of energy sources from rural America, including biofuels and wind energy. The bill also includes a 5-year extension of the credit for electricity produced from certain renewable sources, as well as a credit for the installation of wind energy property including by rural homeowners, farmers, ranchers, and small businesses.
H.R. 2298
Introduced by Congressman Gordon (D-TN), H.R. 2298 would amend the tax code to make geothermal heat pump systems eligible for the energy credit.
H.R. 2337 “Energy Policy Reform and Revitalization Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Rahall (D-WV), H.R. 2337 promotes energy policy reforms and accountability, as well as alternative energy and efficiency within Department of the Interior programs. Specifically, the bill includes a green building leadership program, which would require that all major new facility construction projects funded in whole or in part through the Department of the Interior, the National Ocean Service, the National Marine Fisheries Service, or the Forest Service shall be designed to meet or exceed Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System Silver Certification Standards.
H.R. 2372 “Windfall Energy Alternatives for the Nation (WEAN) Off of Oil Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman DeLauro (D-CT), H.R. 2372 amends the tax code to impose a temporary windfall profit tax on crude oil, and makes the revenues from that tax available for investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. These funds will be held in a separate account to be known as the “Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve”, to be used to promote the utilization of energy-efficient products and practices and conservation.
H.R. 2437
Introduced by Congressman Israel (D-NY), H.R. 2437 establishes an advisory committee to provide advice and recommendations to the Department of Energy on energy efficiency and renewable energy finance and investment issues, options, ideas, and trends. The bill authorizes to be appropriated to the Secretary of Energy $1 million for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
H.R. 2481 “Fuel Efficiency Encouragement Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Hill (D-IN), H.R. 2481 amends the tax code to repeal the limitation on the number of new qualified hybrid and advanced lean-burn technology vehicles eligible for the alternative motor vehicle credit. The bill also provides a credit for manufacturing hybrid vehicles.
H.R. 2483 “Energy for America Act”
Introduced by Congressman Hall (R-TX), H.R. 2483 directs the Secretary of Energy to conduct a program of research, development, demonstration, and commercial application on technologies needed for the development of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Additionally, the bill includes an “Energy Efficient Building Pilot Grant Program” that will award grants to businesses and organizations for new construction of energy efficient buildings, or major renovations of buildings that will result in energy efficient buildings.
H.R. 2528 and S. 1434 “Federal Building Renewal and Energy Savings Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Markey (D-MA) in the House, and Senator Pryor (D-AR) in the Senate, H.R. 2528 and S. 1434 amend the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to promote the use of energy and water efficiency measures in Federal buildings. The bill calls for each Federal agency to complete a comprehensive energy and water evaluation for each building and other facility of that agency. The bill also promotes the use of energy savings performance contracts and utility energy service contracts.
H.R. 2529
Introduced by Congressman Markey (D-MA), H.R. 2529 directs each retail electricity or natural gas distributor to undertake savings measures, beginning in 2009, that culminate in 10 percent electricity savings in 2020, and 5 percent natural gas savings in 2020.
H.R. 2556 “Energy Savings Act of 2007” & S. 1419 “Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman Wilson (R-NM) in the House and Senator Reid (D-NV) in the Senate, H.R. 2556 and S. 1419 include provisions for: biofuels for energy security and transportation; promotion of energy efficiency; carbon capture and storage; public building cost reduction; increasing corporate average fuel economy standards; and energy diplomacy and security. S. 1419 was introduced in the Senate as an amendment, in the nature of a substitute, to H.R. 6 on June 12th, 2007. The bill is currently being debated on the Senate floor.
H.R. 2557
Introduced by Congressman Weller (R-IL), H.R. 2557 amends the tax code to increase and extend the alternative motor vehicle credit for certain models of flexible fuel hybrid vehicles. The credit will be increased to an amount between $1,500 and $3,500, depending upon the city fuel economy of the vehicle.
H.R. 2594 “Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Knollenberg (R-MI), H.R. 2594 directs the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Energy to develop a public relations and education campaign to promote responsible and fuel efficient driving in the United States. The bill authorizes to be appropriated for carrying out this campaign $20 million for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
H.R. 2635 “Carbon-Neutral Government Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Waxman, H.R. 2635 promotes energy efficiency in the Federal Government’s management and operations by mandating: that the Federal fleet meet certain greenhouse gas emission requirements; that the Federal government work to procure energy efficient products for use within the government; that Federal buildings meet energy efficiency performance standards; and that the OMB issue Government Efficiency Reports and Scorecards for each government agency. H.R. 2635 was reported out of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and discharged from all other committees on August 3, 2007. It was placed on the Union Calendar (No. 187) on the same day.
H.R. 2652 “Generating Renewable Energy and Encouraging Novel Technologies Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman English (R-PA), H.R. 2652 amends the tax code to modify the energy efficient appliance credit for appliances produced after the year 2007, and increase and extend the energy efficient commercial buildings deduction.
H.R. 2701 “Transportation Energy Security and Climate Change Mitigation Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Oberstar (D-MN), H.R. 2701 creates new standards for public buildings with regards to energy efficiency and renewable energy systems. Included in these standards is a minimum performance requirement for leased space, the use of energy efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs, a maximum period for utility service contracts, and public building life-cycle costs. The bill was reported out of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure by voice vote on June 20th, 2007.
H.R. 2748
Introduced by Congressman Frelinghuysen (R-NJ), H.R. 2748 amends the tax code to allow the alternative motor vehicle personal credit against the alternative minimum tax.
H.R. 2751 “Leveraging Innovative Gains in High-efficiency Technology Bulbs Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman Harman (D-CA), H.R. 2751 prohibits the sale of certain inefficient light bulbs, and requires the development of a plan for increasing the use of more efficient light bulbs by consumers and businesses. The bill stipulates that not later than one year after the bill is enacted, the Secretary of Energy must issue regulations prohibiting the sale of light bulbs that emit less than 25 lumens per watt, effective January 1, 2010, and less than 60 lumens per watt, effective January 1, 2015.
H.R. 2776 “Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Rangel (D-NY), H.R. 2776 amends the tax code to provide tax incentives for energy efficiency measures. Included in the bill are provisions for: a credit for plug-in hybrids; qualified residential energy efficiency assistance bonds; an extension of energy efficient commercial buildings deduction; and a modification of the energy efficient appliance credit for appliances produced after 2007. On June 27th, 2007, the bill was reported out of the House Ways and Means Committee as amended, and placed on the Union calendar. The bill was passed in the House by a 221-189 vote (Roll no. 835) on August 4, 2007. Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 615, H.R. 2776 was appended to the end of H.R. 3221 as new matter.
H.R. 2809 “New Apollo Energy Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Inslee (D-WA), H.R. 2809 is a multifaceted bill aimed at developing and manufacturing the next generation of energy technologies in the United States. The bill includes provisions on: green buildings; appliance standards; tax provisions for combined heat and power system property; performance goals for the transportation sector (including plug-in hybrid vehicles and increased ridership of public transportation); and various measures to promote energy efficient investments in the electricity sector.
H.R. 2847 “Green Jobs Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congresswoman Solis (D-CA), H.R. 2847 creates an “Energy Efficiency And Renewable Energy Training Program” that will track and document academic and occupational competencies as well as future skill needs with respect to renewable and energy efficiency technology, to ensure that the American workforce has the skills to compete as energy efficiency technologies advance. The bill was reported out of the Committee on Education and Labor by a 26-18 vote on June 25, 2007. The bill was then placed on the Union Calendar, No. 167, on July 27, 2007. This bill was incorporated into both H.R. 3220 and H.R. 3221, which were introduced on the House floor on July 30, 2007.
H.R. 2867 “Independence Prize Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman McHenry (R-NC), H.R. 2867 requires that the Secretary of Energy establish a program for awarding prizes to US entities for research, development, and commercialization of advanced or transformational technologies for the production, consumption, and distribution of nonpetroleum-based alternative energy and energy efficiency.
H.R. 2927
Introduced by Congressman Hill (D-IN), H.R. 2927 will increase the corporate average fuel economy standards for automobiles, culminating in the standard being between 32 miles per gallon and 35 miles per gallon in the year 2022. The bill also includes a provision to extend the manufacturing credit for alternative fueled vehicles.
H.R. 2966 “Plug-in Hybrid Opportunity Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Markey (D-MA), H.R. 2966 amends the tax code to create a credit for the conversion of hybrid motor vehicles to plug-in hybrid motor vehicles. The credit amount will be 35 percent of the cost of placing a qualified plug-in battery module in service.
H.R. 2990
Introduced by Congressman Doggett (D-TX), H.R. 2990 amends the tax code to make geothermal heat pump systems eligible for the energy credit and the residential energy efficient property credit. The credit for the residential energy efficient property with regards to a geothermal heat pump system is 30 percent of the qualified geothermal heat pump property expenditures.
H.R. 3059
Introduced by Congressman Barton (R-TX), H.R. 3059 increases the corporate average fuel economy standards for automobiles. The bill will ensure that the average fuel economy standard for non-passenger automobiles manufactured for model year 2022 and after be not less than 27.5 miles per gallon. Additionally, the bill establishes an alternative minimum standard that will be the greater of 27.5 miles per gallon or 92 percent of the average fuel economy projected by the Secretary of Energy for the combined domestic and foreign fleets for sale in the United States in that model year.
H.R. 3220 “New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act”
Introduced by Speaker Pelosi (D-CA), H.R. 3220 is a comprehensive energy bill that deals with energy efficiency in several ways. The bill includes provisions on: energy efficiency worker training programs (Title I); promotion of clean and efficient energy technologies in foreign countries (Title II, Subtitle B); Federal government energy efficiency (Title VI, Subtitle B); promotion of energy efficiency in appliances, lighting, residential buildings, commercial and Federal buildings, industry, smart grid facilitation, demand response (Title IX); and tax provisions on plug-in hybrid vehicles, residential energy efficiency, energy efficient commercial buildings, and home appliance efficiency (Title X).
H.R. 3221 “New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act”
Introduced by Speaker Pelosi (D-CA), H.R. 3220 is a comprehensive energy bill that deals with energy efficiency in several ways. The bill includes provisions on: energy efficiency worker training programs (Title I); promotion of clean and efficient energy technologies in foreign countries (Title II, Subtitle B); Federal government energy efficiency (Title VI, Subtitle B); promotion of energy efficiency in appliances, lighting, residential buildings, commercial and Federal buildings, industry, smart grid facilitation, and demand response (Title IX). The bill was passed (as amended) by the House by a 241-172 vote (Roll no. 832) on August 4, 2007.
H.R. 3236 “Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Boucher (D-VA), H.R. 3236 includes provisions on the following energy efficiency areas: appliance efficiency; lighting efficiency; residential building efficiency; commercial and Federal building efficiency; industrial energy efficiency; energy efficiency of public institutions; and energy savings performance contracting. This bill was incorporated into both H.R. 3220 and H.R. 3221, which were introduced on July 30, 2007. The bill was reported out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee on August 3, 2007, and was placed on the Union Calendar.
H.R. 3237 “Smart Grid Facilitation Act of 2007”
Introduced by Congressman Boucher (D-VA), H.R. 3237 will facilitate the transition to a smart electricity grid, ensuring greater efficiency in the utility sector. The bill also includes provisions on electricity sector demand response. This bill was incorporated into both H.R. 3220 and H.R. 3221, which were introduced on July 30, 2007. The bill was reported out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee on August 3, 2007, and was placed on the Union Calendar.
H.R. 3239
Introduced by Congressman Boucher (D-VA), H.R. 3239 will promote greater efficiency in automobile manufacturing and purchasing through loans and grants in advanced batteries and domestic manufacturing conversion. The bill also includes provisions on plug-in hybrid vehicles. This bill was incorporated as part of both H.R. 3320 and H.R. 3321, which were introduced on July 30, 2007. The bill was reported out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee on August 3, 2007, and was placed on the Union Calendar.
H.R. 3274 “United States-China Energy Cooperation Act”
Introduced by Congressman Israel (D-NY), H.R. 3274 authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make grants to encourage cooperation between the United States and China on joint research, development, or commercialization of carbon capture and sequestration technology, improved energy efficiency, ore renewable energy sources.
H. Con. Res. 153
Introduced by Congressman Gilchrest (R-MD), H. Con. Res. 153 expresses the sense of the Congress regarding the need for a nationwide energy portfolio. Specifically, the measure states that the Congress should pursue development of policies to promote major energy efficiency initiatives, including increasing vehicle fuel economy standards, the installation and use of energy efficient light bulbs, strengthening policy promoting the use of energy efficient appliances, and the building and purchase of energy efficient homes and buildings.
Senate Legislation
S. 6 “National Energy and Environmental Security Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), S. 6 would reduce the dependence of the US on foreign oil and unsustainable energy sources by: requiring reductions in emissions of greenhouse gases; diversifying and expanding the use of environmentally-friendly energy supplies and technologies; reducing the burdens on consumers of rising energy prices; eliminating tax giveaways to large energy companies; and preventing price gouging, profiteering, and market manipulation.
S. 129
Introduced by Senator Allard (R-CO), S. 129 promotes the study and use of energy-efficient computer servers in the United States.
S. 146 “Government Fleet Fuel Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Boxer (D-CA), S. 146 requires each passenger vehicle purchased or leased for at least 60 consecutive days by an executive agency to be as fuel efficient as possible.
S. 162 “National Fuels Initiative”
Introduced by Senator Lugar (R-IN), S. 162 amends tax codes regarding the alternative fuel credit, increasing the amount that can be applied to the credit. The bill also requires that automobile manufacturers begin producing and distributing dual fueled vehicles as a percentage of their automobiles, reaching 100 percent in the year 2017. S. 162 also extends the alternative vehicle credit for new qualified hybrid motor vehicles from 12/31/2009 to 12/31/2010.
S. 183 “Improved Passenger Automobile Fuel Economy Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Stevens (R-AK), S. 183 requires the average fuel economy for every auto manufacturer’s vehicle fleet to be 40 mpg by 2017. Also establishes market-based incentives for green house gas reductions.
S. 193 “Energy Diplomacy and Security Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Lugar (R-IN), S. 193 calls for the creation of strategic energy partnerships with both foreign governments and entities in the private sector to secure the strategic and economic interests of the U.S. S. 193 expresses the sense that U.S. national security requires that the United States Government have an energy policy that pursues the strategic goal of achieving energy security through access to clean, affordable, sufficient, reliable, and sustainable sources of energy. Included in this policy are activities relating to the promotion of alternative and renewable fuels, trade and investment in oil, coal, and natural gas, energy efficiency, climate and environmental protection, data transparency, advanced scientific research, public-private partnerships, and energy activities in international development. On March 28th, S. 193 was ordered reported out of the Committee on Foreign Relations without amendment. On April 12th, S. 193 was reported by Senator Biden, and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. This bill was included as a piece of S. 1419, which was introduced on May 17th, 2007, and was placed on the Senate calendar.
S. 298 “Renewable Energy, Fuel Reduction, & Economic Stabilization & Enhancement Act”
Introduced by Senator Murkowski, S. 298 authorizes $100 million for grants to promote geothermal power development, a well as $100 million in grants for all forms of ocean energy (including wave, tidal, and thermal energy), and $100 million to assist automobile manufacturers in the production of plug-in hybrid electric-combustion engine vehicles. Also updates fuel economy standards, using procedures described in the final rule relating to fuel economy labeling published in the Federal Register on December 27, 2006. Authorizes $50 million for fiscal year 2008 to allow the Secretary of Transportation to award grants to States to develop telecommuting and flexible scheduling incentives that will reduce traffic congestion in urban areas. Also extends and modifies rules regarding hybrid motor vehicle credits.
S. 309 “Global Warming Pollution Reduction Act”
Introduced by Senator Sanders (I-VT), S. 309 calls for stabilization of global atmospheric concentrations of GHG below 450 ppm. Also calls for an 80% decrease (compared to 1990 levels) in global warming pollutants by 2050 by enacting a combination of mandatory reduction targets and incentives that will help develop clean alternative energies.
S. 317 “Electric Utility Cap and Trade Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Feinstein (D-CA), S. 317 directs the Department of Energy to issue regulations that establish a “low- and zero-emitting carbon technologies program” and an “energy efficiency technology program” to support technology development and deployment with low-interest loans, loan guarantees, grants, and financial awards.
S. 357 “Ten-inTen Fuel Economy Act”
Introduced by Senator Feinstein (D-CA), S. 357 requires that new automobiles and light trucks achieve a combined average fuel economy of at least 35 miles per gallon by model year 2019. Additionally, by model year 2010, each manufacturer would be required to reach an interim target of 29.5 miles per gallon for automobiles and 23.5 for light trucks. The bill also eliminates the distinction between automobiles and light trucks by model year 2013, abolishing the loophole for sport utility vehicles. On May 8th, the bill was reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably from the Senate Committee on Science, Commerce and Transportation. This bill was included as a piece of S. 1419, which was introduced on May 17th, 2007, and was placed on the Senate calendar.
S. 485 “Global Warming Reduction Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Kerry (D-MA), S. 485 amends the Clean Air Act to establish an economy-wide global warming pollution emission cap-and-trade program to assist the economy in transitioning to new clean energy technologies; to protect employees and affected communities; and to protect companies and consumers from significant increases in energy costs.
S. 489 “Green Buildings Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Warner (R-VA), S. 489 establishes an Office of Green Buildings within the General Services Administration in order to improve efficiency in the Federal Government through the use of green buildings. In addition, the bill allows the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to provide grants to qualified State agencies that help promote green buildings in school facilities.
S. 701 “Strategic Energy Fund Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Clinton (D-NY), S. 701 amends tax code to impose a temporary oil profit fee and use the proceeds of this fee to provide a Strategic Energy Fund and expand certain energy tax incentives, including incentives for energy efficient buildings.
S. 875 “Security and Fuel Efficiency Energy Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Dorgan (D-ND), S. 875 would reduce the oil intensity of the economy of the United States by 50 percent by the year 2030, as well as expand secure oil supplies. These measures would be achieved by raising the fuel efficiency of the vehicular transport fleet by 4 percent annually, as well as other measures.
S. 992 “Public Buildings Cost Reduction Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Boxer (D-CA), S. 992 directs the General Services Administration (GSA) to establish a program to speed the use of cost-effective energy-efficient lighting equipment and other technologies and practices. Additionally, GSA would be required to prepare a 5-year plan to replace inefficient lighting in GSA buildings using available funds. Also, an EPA matching grant program would be created to help local governments renovate buildings to improve energy efficiency. On March 29th, the bill was ordered to be reported favorably with amendments. The bill was placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar on May 3rd. This bill was included as a piece of S. 1419, which was introduced on May 17th, 2007, and was placed on the Senate calendar.
S. 1059
Introduced by Senator Clinton (D-NY), S. 1059 would improve federal building energy efficiency standards.
S. 1072 “Federal Agency Environmental Responsibility Act”
Introduced by Senator Stevens (R-AK), S. 1072 requires Federal agencies to conduct environmental, transportation, and energy-related activities in support of their respective missions in an environmentally, economically, and fiscally sound manner. Specifically, the bill calls for Federal buildings to replace low energy light bulbs as they burn out with energy-efficient light bulbs, with a goal of replacing all such bulbs within 5 years of enactment.
S. 1115 “Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Bingaman (D-NM), S. 1115 is a bill aimed at improving energy efficiency, by consumers, businesses, and the federal government. The bill includes provisions on: accelerated procurement of energy efficient lighting; energy efficiency labeling for consumer products; energy standards for home appliances; improved energy efficiency for appliances and buildings in cold climates; national goals for energy savings in transportation; national energy efficiency goals; nationwide media campaigns to increase energy efficiency; energy management requirements for Federal buildings; Federal building energy efficiency performance standards; utility energy efficiency programs; energy efficiency and demand response program assistance; and energy sustainability and efficiency grants for institutions of higher education. The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held hearings on S. 1115 on April 23rd, 2007. This bill was replaced by S. 1321, which was introduced into the Senate on May 7th, 2007.
S. 1118 “Fuel Efficiency Energy Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Dorgan (D-ND), S. 1118 raises the average fuel economy standards for automobiles. Beginning in model year 2013 and ending with model year 2030, the average fuel economy attained by the fleet of automobiles manufactured or sold in the United States shall be at least 4 percent greater than the average fuel economy standard for the fleet in the previous model year.
S. 1158 “Alternative Fuel Standard Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Inhofe (R-OK), S. 1158 amends the Clean Air Act to increase the use of renewable and alternative fuel, including electricity, culminating in 35 billion gallons worth of alternative fuel being used in the year 2017.
S. 1165 “American Green Building Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Cardin (D-MD), S. 1165 requires federal buildings to be designed, constructed, and certified to meet, at a minimum, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design green building rating standard identified as silver by the United States Green Building Council.
S. 1201 “Clean Power Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Sanders (I-VT), S. 1201 creates an energy efficiency performance standard, which would culminate in reducing electricity use by 9 percent in the year 2020 and each calendar year thereafter. Additionally, the bill also creates a renewable portfolio standard, which would mandate that the quantity of electricity generated by renewable energy sources shall be not less than 20 percent by the year 2020.
S. 1207 “Giving Reductions to Energy Efficient New (GREEN) Buildings Act”
Introduced by Senator Landrieu (D-LA), S. 1207 amends the tax code to increase and extend the energy efficient commercial buildings deduction.
S. 1321 “Energy Savings Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Bingaman (D-NM), S. 1321 is the new version of S. 1115, as it passed through the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee. S. 1321 is a bill aimed at improving energy efficiency, by consumers, businesses, and the federal government. The bill includes provisions on: accelerated procurement of energy efficient lighting; energy efficiency labeling for consumer products; energy standards for home appliances; improved energy efficiency for appliances and buildings in cold climates; national goals for energy savings in transportation; national energy efficiency goals; nationwide media campaigns to increase energy efficiency; energy management requirements for Federal buildings; Federal building energy efficiency performance standards; utility energy efficiency programs; energy efficiency and demand response program assistance; and energy sustainability and efficiency grants for institutions of higher education. The bill also includes provisions on biofuels and carbon capture and storage. This bill was included as a piece of S. 1419, which was introduced on May 17th, 2007, and was placed on the Senate calendar.
S. 1370 “Clean Energy Investment Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Cantwell (D-WA), S. 1370 amends the tax code to ensure more investment and innovation in clean energy technologies. Specifically, the bill extends the residential energy efficient property credit through the year 2016, extends the new energy efficient home credit through the year 2013, and extends the deduction for energy efficient commercial buildings.
S. 1497 “Energy Independence Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Cardin (D-MD), S. 1497 establishes a National Committee on Energy Independence, which would review and make recommendations to the President and Congress on the progress of the United States in meeting the long-term energy policy goal of energy independence.
S. 1526 “Bright Idea Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Stevens (R-AK), S. 1526 directs the Secretary of Energy to develop standards for general service lamps that will operate more efficiently and assist in reducing costs. The bill also requires that general service lamps and related products manufactured or sold after 2013 meet those standards.
S. 1527
Introduced by Senator Stevens (R-AK), S. 1527 amends the tax code to provide a tax credit for the renovation and construction of manufacturing facilities of incandescent lamps.
S. 1531 “Clean Renewable Energy and Economic Development Incentives Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Reid (D-NV), S. 1531 extends the tax credit for new energy efficient homes through the year 2013, as well as increasing the credit amount. Additionally, the bill permanently extends the credit for residential energy efficient property, as well as increasing the credit amount.
S. 1554 “Energy Independence, Clean Air, and Climate Security Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Collins (R-ME), S. 1554 directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe average fuel economy standards for passenger automobiles and light trucks of at least 35 miles per gallon beginning in model year 2019, and of at least 45 miles per gallon in model year 2030. The bill also includes provisions creating an energy-efficient motor vehicle manufacturing credit, fuel efficiency standards for replacement tires, fuel economy standards for heavy duty trucks, and federal fleet requirements.
S. 1562 “Fluorescent Lightbulb Implementation Program to Save Americans Value and Energy”
Introduced by Senator Biden (D-DE), S. 1562 establishes a compact fluorescent lighting grant program under which the Secretary of Energy provides grants to States for the distribution of medium base compact fluorescent lamps to households. The bill authorizes to be appropriated $50 million to carry out this program.
S. 1567
Introduced by Senator Klobuchar (D-MN), S. 1567 creates a Federal renewable portfolio standard, directing each electric utility that sells electricity to electric consumers to obtain a percentage of the base amount of electricity it sells to consumers from new renewable energy of existing renewable energy, beginning with 1 percent in year 2010, and culminating in 25 percent in year 2025.
S. 1601 “Energy Infrastructure Tax Reform and Incentives Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Hagel (R-NE), S. 1601 extends the renewable energy production tax credit by 5 years, and modifies the tax code definition of energy property so that the energy credit is extended to green buildings.
S. 1602 “Clean, Reliable, Efficient and Secure Energy Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Hagel (R-NE), S. 1602 addresses efficiency issues in several field, including: efficiency in electricity use; incentives for Utility Investment in Smart Grid; automobile fuel economy; fuel economy of the Federal fleet; energy efficiency in Federal buildings and public schools; and energy efficient education programs.
S. 1617 “Fuel Reduction using Electrons to End Dependence on the Mid-east Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Hatch (R-UT), S. 1617 amends the tax code to provide incentives for plug-in hybrid electric drive motor vehicles. Specifically, the bill would create a tax credit for each taxpayer that purchases a plug-in hybrid vehicle, as well as an incentive for manufacturing facilities that produce plug-in electric drive motor vehicle and components. The bill was ordered out of the Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs favorably without amendment on August 1, 2007.
S. 1619 “Oil Independence, Limiting Subsidies, and Accelerating Vehicle Efficiency Act”
Introduced by Senator Wyden (D-OR), S. 1619 amends the tax code to create a credit for fuel-efficiency motor vehicles, worth up to $1,860, depending on the fuel economy of the vehicle.
S. 1657 “Small Business Energy Efficiency Act of 2007”
Introduced by Senator Kerry (D-MA), S. 1657 directs the Small Business Administration to publish a detailed plan to assist small business concerns in becoming more energy efficient and to build on the Energy Star for Small Business Program of the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, the bill directs the Small Business Administration to establish a Small Business Energy Efficiency Pilot Program to provide energy efficiency assistance to small business concerns through small business development centers.
For more information on these bills, please visit www.thomas.gov.
#####
|
