May 11, 2006- Kaptur Praises Democratic Comprehensive Renewable Energy Plan

WASHINGTON,DC -Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-9) joined her colleagues in the House andMembers of the Democratic Rural Working Group today to unveil a plan to investin America,grow our energy, and establish energy independence. The Biofuels Energypackage would rapidly expand the production and distribution of biofuels;encourage the deployment of new engine technologies for flex fuel, hybrid andbiodiesel vehicles; and encourage cutting edge research to develop the nextrevolution in renewable energy. The Democratic Real Security Agendacalls for energy independence by 2020.

"American agriculture is the key to improving America'senergy security through ethanol, biodiesel, and other renewable fuels, whilecreating new markets here at home, and reducing our Nation's dependence onforeign oil," said Kaptur. "This legislation will bring real investmentsin alternative fuels that can provide us with opportunities for producer incomeas well as energy independence."

The plan provides federal investment in basic biofuels research to makeethanol production more efficient, develop new feedstock processes and fosternew vehicle efficient technologies. In addition, the legislation providesfederal incentives to encourage diverse ownership so that independent,locally-owned facilities can compete with large oil companies.

"Our region has the ability to produce clean and renewable energy fromagricultural commodities, from byproducts from agricultural processing, andfrom waste. There are many cheaper, more creative solutions than thedestructive energy policies the Administration has been pursuing," said Kaptur.

Significantly increasing the usage of biofuels in the U.S.is one of the most obvious ways to achieve the goal of energy independence.High-ethanol fuel offers a cheaper, homegrown alternative to record-highgasoline. The highest commercially available blend in common use today isa blend of 85 percent ethanol, and 15 percent gasoline, known as E-85.

Kaptur said that the effort builds on her legislation, the Biofuels EnergyIndependence Act (HR 388) that would also have set up additional authority forfinancing renewable fuel development, production and distribution, as well as afarmer-owned grain fuels reserve. She has also proposed higher renewablefuel standards than those adopted in last year's energy bill. She hadcalled for 10% ethanol and 5% biodiesel by 2010.