December 11th, 2006
Many people seem to think that because of the surge in demand and urgency, the US Democratic Party, who has gained considerable control over the House of Representatives, would have to play a big and pressing catch up game in terms of creating a more favorable Renewable Energy legislature. This article from NewsHouse explains some key facts surround thing question.
The current RE legislation in the US is based on a "which state wants to do it" policy, with more than 20 states embracing their own methodology (such as California and its Governator Mr. Schwarzenegger). The RE Policy though, must apply everywhere!
Fortunately, the Democrats are keen on doing that. For example, Democrat Jeff Bingaman whose task will primarily focus on leading the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee this coming January (when the Democrats assume control of Congress) is a Renewable Energy advocate and sees a change in the RE generation requirement to at least 10% of US electricity production by 2020.
Will the US have now have a more definitive RE policy? We will have to wait until January but let us hope they do.