Renewable energy makes priority list

NW Current.com September 26, 2006

The Oregon Conservation Network, a coalition of 40 environmental groups, announced Sept. 20 its priorities for the state's 2007 legislative session.

Dubbed "Priorities for a Healthy Oregon," the report was created by representatives from the Oregon League of Conservation Voters, Citizens Utility Board of Oregon and Oregon Environmental Council. The groups led a press conference in Salem to unveil the agenda.

More investment in renewable energy resources is one of the group’s top priorities, in part because of rising evidence of global warming.

Global warming is also suddenly a hot topic in the governor's race. Republican candidate Ron Saxton said he wants the federal government to address the issue rather than individual states, while Gov. Ted Kulongoski (D) is pushing for legislation that would require 25 percent of Oregon's power be generated by new sources of renewable energy by 2025.

The groups urged the governor to place more emphasis on renewable energy to create new markets for Oregon crops that could be used to make biofuels.

"A robust biofuels industry means less dependence on foreign oil, a cleaner environment, greater rural economic development and more jobs for Oregonians," said Lindsey Capps of the Oregon Environmental Council.

In response to the group’s press conference, Kulongoski said, “These organizations — representing tens of thousands of Oregonians — understand that clean energy means good jobs for our state and a healthier future for Oregon families.”