Orrin Hatch: “this is the first time since 2007 the Senate has taken up and considered an energy bill. I am pleased we are finally…”

“this is the first time since 2007 the Senate has taken up and considered an energy bill. I am pleased we are finally discussing this important issue. I hope we will also take time to talk about our country's recent boom in oil and gas production. In the years since our last energy debate in the Senate, the United States has transitioned from a position of inordinate dependence on foreign energy sources to become one of the largest energy producers in the world today. Much of this is the result of technological innovation, and we must do everything possible to make it easier for domestic companies to access, refine, and transport the oil and gas that has become available with recent advances in technology. In my view, energy efficiency and industrial competitiveness should not be addressed without also addressing energy production. The two are necessarily interrelated, and it makes no sense to treat each in isolation. But that isn't happening today. As a result, we are missing a critical opportunity to have an important debate on how best to invest our Nation's resources to support domestic energy production. The bill we have been discussing establishes new programs promoting energy efficiencies for buildings and manufacturing. It authorizes new spending for career skills and workforce training.…”