Mark Takano: “The United States is at the forefront of clean energy development and clean energy deployment globally. Not only are we…”

“The United States is at the forefront of clean energy development and clean energy deployment globally. Not only are we developing countless private renewable energy projects across the country, but we have hundreds more wind, solar, and geothermal projects on Federal lands, with many more on the way. If we are to remain a global leader in renewable energy deployment, then we should ensure any new oil and gas drilling does not impede the rapid deployment of renewable energy projects that are so critical to our energy independence and security. Before we consider approving even more land for outdated and highly polluting forms of energy, we must continue on our march into the future and invest in renewable energy projects, not just on Federal lands but in every community that stands to benefit from these projects. My amendment would require the Secretary to not only certify that increased oil and gas drilling on Federal lands will not negatively impact renewable energy project development but also prohibit the inclusion of any recommendations to expand such drilling in this plan if it would do so. Yes, we must make gas affordable at the pump, but the President of the United States has already helped lower prices for the American people by drawing down the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. In fact, the underlying legislation would create additional barriers to keeping gas prices low. The answer is not more drilling.…”