U.S. struggling to keep up with U.A.E. in renewables

At the 11th Annual Congressional Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Expo and Forum, several representatives delivered remarks on the potential of private sector businesses in the support of renewable energy. Private companies lobbying for federal assistance presented such products as private home and community wind generators.

Senator Wayne Allard (R-Colo.) said the private sector is the most appropriate and efficient means to expand renewable energy sources. Congressman Zachary Wamp (R-Tenn.) said the transition from natural gas to renewable fuels is “the most important challenge of our generation.” Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) said the U.S. has a lot of work to do to catch up with countries like Germany and the United Arab Emirates in terms of renewables. Congressman Jay Inslee (D-Wash.) said the U.S. needs to find freedom from its slavery and addiction to oil. He added that renewable energy is a huge economic growth opportunity and also “saves the planet.”