Sunday, January 25, 2009

Captiol Report for 1-28-09

The Future of Missouri Energy

In recent years, we have felt the pinch in our pocketbooks as energy prices have skyrocketed. Although there is no silver bullet to resolving this crisis, it has become very clear that ensuring reliable and affordable energy is critical to Missouri’s future. Therefore, the Missouri Legislature is working to craft an energy policy that is good for Missouri’s businesses, consumers and energy providers.

Missouri currently stands at the crossroads of how to best meet our future energy needs. While northwest Missouri has been a leader in wind energy production, the fact still remains that the current renewable energy technologies do not generate enough capacity to replace conventional energy production. As a result, Missouri must explore additional energy sources that when implemented responsibly can be reliable, cost effective, and environmentally friendly.

It is imperative that every level of government works towards establishing secure energy production that takes advantage of our domestic resources while promoting conservation, renewable and alternative sources. Responsible public policy that is source neutral combined with the innovation and creativity of our domestic entrepreneurs will create an environment that will lead us to energy independence. From a greater adoption of renewable energy to the cultivation of traditional domestic energy supplies, there are a number of options that when used together will meet our future energy needs.

Missouri has the opportunity to be a leader in crafting energy policy that ensures long term energy stability while promoting economic growth. One thing is certain, if we do nothing, energy costs will rise dramatically. If we are going to be successful in stabilizing future energy prices, we must increase supply while becoming more efficient and effective with our consumption. As the chairman of the committee responsible for tackling these issues, I am committed to crafting an energy policy that is good for Missouri’s citizens and that will ensure reliable and affordable energy for future generations.

As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

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