ISSUE BRIEF: Support Development of Coal-To-Liquids Fuel in the Senate
Ensure the nation’s energy security by supporting coal-to-liquids!
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The Issue:
Each year, America becomes more and more dependent on foreign sources of energy. Some of the nations that sell us that energy are also fundamental threats to our nation's long-term security. America needs to produce more American energy to help strengthen our country's economy and its energy security.
The way to reduce our reliance on foreign energy supplies is threefold -- more production of domestic energy sources (both conventional and renewable resources); greater energy conservation; and development of technologies to more efficiently use existing sources. One of the best resources we have is coal, which is where coal-to-liquids comes into play.
America’s most abundant resource is coal. We sit atop 250 billion tons of coal and know exactly where it is. Coal-to-liquids is a method of turning coal into a cleaner burning liquid fuel which is much more environmentally friendly. Several lawmakers have interest in enacting legislation providing incentives for the development of coal-to-liquids. Despite its great promise however, large-scale coal-to-liquids plants will not get off the ground without help from the government.
Impacts on the West:
Government subsidies, loan guarantees and tax incentives are needed to get commercial-scale coal-to-liquids plants off the ground. However, doing so will not only increase our energy security by reducing our dependence on foreign resources, but will also strengthen the American economy. Many high-paying, skilled jobs will stay in the United States in order to build these plants, mine for coal, and provide the infrastructure necessary to aid our energy needs.
Status of the Issue:
S. 155 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Finance while its companion bill, H.R. 370 has been introduced in the House and referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.
Solutions:
- Congress needs to provide incentives and protection for those seeking to further develop coal-to-liquids fuel projects and increase our domestic production and overall energy supply.
- Take 60 seconds to tell Congress that you support development of coal-to-liquids energy!
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