A Statement from Alliance to Save Energy President Kateri Callahan

“With Saturday’s passage of the 2015 Omnibus Appropriations bill, Congress sent a clear signal that energy efficiency remains a priority within federal energy policy, as the Department of Energy’s energy efficiency and renewable energy programs received a two percent increase of $25 million in funding over last year’s budget, including 9% and 11% increases to the important weatherization and advanced manufacturing programs, respectively. The Alliance to Save Energy applauds the bipartisan efforts of lawmakers in reaching an agreement that will fund the federal government through next September.

“In particular, we commend the leadership of House Appropriations Chairman Hal Rogers (R-Ky.) and his Senate counterpart Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), as well as the support of our Honorary Vice-Chairs who serve on the Appropriations Committee — Sens. Collins (R-Maine), Coons (D-Del.), Murkowski (R-Alaska), Pryor (D-Ark.), and Shaheen (D-N.H.) — for protecting and advancing federal investment in our country’s cleanest, cheapest and most abundant energy resource.

“Continued robust funding for federal energy efficiency programs is crucial to realizing the benefits of energy efficiency for taxpayers and the economy.  Overall, this long-term agreement is a crucial victory for U.S. families and businesses. The Alliance looks forward to working with Congress to ensure this bipartisan action is just the start of a successful 2015 that will include the passage of the Shaheen-Portman energy efficiency bill and other key efficiency legislation.”