Alan Simpson: “I rise reluctantly to oppose the amendment. The amendment would increase funding for the marine and hydrokinetic…”

“I rise reluctantly to oppose the amendment. The amendment would increase funding for the marine and hydrokinetic programs within the EERE account. I appreciate my colleague's passion for renewable energy programs. She has worked tirelessly to support efforts to advance American research and industry in this area. This year's funding for EERE is $1.789 billion, $113 million below last year and $528 million below the budget request. This is roughly equivalent to the fiscal year 2013 level presequester and is nearly $1 billion more than last year's House bill. Funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy is focused on three main priorities: helping American manufacturers compete in the global marketplace, supporting the Weatherization Assistance Program, and addressing future high gas prices. This left limited funding for renewable energy programs for which funding is prioritized to support two main projects: an offshore wind demonstration project and an enhanced geothermal field test site. Within the remaining resources, the recommendation provides $38.5 million for water power and accepts the budget request proposal for an almost even split between the conventional hydropower program and the marine and hydrokinetic technologies program.…”