June 19, 2009

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman André Carson hosted a briefing to discuss a report issued by the Blue Green Alliance that outlines the job creation potential of a strong federal Renewable Electricity Standard (RES).  The report, entitled How to Revitalize America’s Middle Class with the Clean Energy Economy, explains that pursuing a strong RES would result in the creation of 850,000 manufacturing jobs across the United States.  Included in this total are 40,000 new jobs that would be created at existing companies in Indiana.

Currently the House is considering H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act, which will include a similar RES requirement.

Congressman Carson’s statement on the report follows:

“As our recession continues, thousands of Hoosiers are losing good-paying jobs, leaving them without means to pay their bills and cover their most basic expenses.  For the unemployed, new jobs are getting harder to find. So today, I was pleased to join the Blue Green Alliance in releasing a report that highlights the importance of strong a Renewable Electricity Standard—a common sense solution that will help to reverse our economic downturn, improve our environment and put thousands of Americans back to work.

“As our nation transitions to a green economy, our energy efficient technologies and equipment should be produced by American companies that employ American workers.  Under a strong Renewable Electricity Standard, local investors, manufacturers, suppliers and workers can feel confident in their decision to be a part of this new renewable industry. This is the type of boost our struggling economy needs.”

More on the Blue Green Alliance

The Blue Green Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations.  A copy of their RES report can be found at http://www.bluegreenalliance.org/press_room/press_releases?id=0031.

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