Susan Davis: “If we are going to remain competitive in the global economy, we must invest in clean energy innovation. San Diego has…”

“If we are going to remain competitive in the global economy, we must invest in clean energy innovation. San Diego has 767 clean energy companies, and has become an innovation hub, especially in solar power, energy storage and advanced biofuels. According to the San Diego Association of Governments, the algae energy section alone--one energy section--provides the region with 410 direct jobs and $108 million in economic activity each year. Unfortunately, the appropriations bill we're voting on this week cuts solar energy research by more than one-third; decreases biomass research by $33 million; and cuts $80 million from funding for breakthrough domestic clean energy innovators. We can't hold back the companies that have come up with the answers to our serious energy problems. I hope my colleagues will join me in fighting for cleantech and biotech innovation by opposing this damaging bill. ____________________”