Miller-Meeks Lauds Pickens Energy Plan | Print |  E-mail
Wednesday, 09 July 2008

Invites Texas Oil Man To Spread Energy

Independence Message In Iowa


OTTUMWA – Second Congressional District candidate Mariannette Miller-Meeks said she is encouraging legendary Texas oil executive T. Boone Pickens to visit Iowa to spread his pro-active, practical strategy to significantly reduce America's dependence on foreign oil.

Earlier this week, Pickens unveiled his plan to shift 22 percent of America's electric production from natural gas to wind power.  By diverting that natural gas to the fuel tanks of America's cars, trucks, buses and planes, Pickens contends the nation can forego nearly 40 percent of its current oil imports and the accompanying, crushing debt.

"I like T. Boone Pickens' approach because it's well-thought out, practical and, ultimately, optimistic.  He makes it clear that we can solve the current energy crisis because we have the resources and the brainpower to make that happen," Miller-Meeks said. "Iowans want to see action; David Loebsack and his fellow Nancy Pelosi followers in Congress have kept us on the wrong track because they aren't doing anything to solve the problem. We need a comprehensive plan that revitalizes our  economy, protects our environment and enhances national security. I'll get us on the right track."

She has advocated for biodiesel production from animal fat or other sources, and additional energy production from ethanol, nuclear, solar and oil from coal.  She backs additional research and development for electric cars. In addition to encouraging conservation, she favors increased mass transit services and the inclusion of more bicycle lanes when roads are repaired or constructed.    Miller-Meeks said she will contact Pickens, welcoming him to the district to talk about energy independence.

Pickens has noted that 24 percent of America's daily oil consumption relied on imports in 1970. By 1990, that amount had increased to 42 percent. This year, 70 percent of America's oil is imported.  The United States, which has 4 percent of the world's population, accounts for 25 percent of daily oil consumption.

At current prices, America will spend $700 billion this year on imported oil.  Miller-Meeks agrees with Pickens that the nation cannot afford the $7 trillion that the nation would pay over 10 years at those prices.

"His plan is grounded in reality.  We can use wind power generated right here in the Second District and other parts of the Midwest to replace the natural gas that now goes to producing 22 percent of our electricity. Natural gas is the second-largest energy resource in America, behind coal, and it's a clean, cheaper way to fuel vehicles." she explained.  "More than 8 million vehicles run on natural gas already, so it's only common sense that we could do more on that front if we follow the Pickens Plan."

Miller-Meeks continued, "Making that switch would reduce imports by 38 percent and save us $300 billion a year at current fuel prices, which are only going to go higher as time goes on. Boone Pickens insists we can make the complete changeover in less than 10 years with the right leadership.  If Iowans send me to Congress, I will provide that leadership."
 
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