Alliance to Save Energy Calls on Congress to Increase CAFE,
Offers Consumers Tips in Anticipation of Higher Gas Prices

Washington D.C, October 17, 2007 – With oil prices topping $88 a barrel yesterday, and prices at the pump sure to follow, the Alliance to Save Energy is once again calling on Congress to enact, immediately, higher Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. It will take time for the standards to become effective and provide relief, so every day of delay comes at a cost to our economy, our environment, and our national security, the Alliance said.

“Congress must adopt and send to the president the CAFE increases in the Senate energy bill,” said Alliance President Kateri Callahan. “As consumers continue to be burdened by increasing gasoline prices, and with cost-effective technology currently available that can dramatically increase vehicle fuel economy, there simply is no excuse for Congress to postpone raising fuel economy standards.

“The benefits will go beyond consumers’ pocketbooks,” Callahan continued. “Energy efficiency in the transportation sector is a key element in helping to curb the polluting emissions that contribute to climate change and in lowering U.S. dependence on imported oil.”

Callahan noted also that consumers have the power to lower their monthly gasoline costs through easy no-cost and low-cost steps and by choosing hybrid or very fuel-efficient vehicles when purchases are made. To help consumers in the purchase of hybrid or efficient, clean diesel vehicles, the federal government currently offers tax incentives.

The Alliance challenges consumers to take measures that will not only keep dollars in their pockets, but also will help to curb greenhouse gas emissions and enhance our national energy security:

• Keep cars in good working order with regular tune-ups and oil changes; keep tires properly inflated; stick to the speed limit and avoid aggressive driving; and think about fuel economy when purchasing a new vehicle.
• Information in both English and Spanish on valuable federal income tax credits for purchasers of hybrid-electric or diesel vehicles on the consumer tax credit website.
• Test your “Energy IQ” and take the 6° of Energy Efficiency Challenge at www.sixdegreechallenge.org to learn how your energy use and energy waste affects your community, the nation, and the planet – and how being more energy-efficient contributes to our nation’s economic and energy security.