US Chamber’s Global Energy Institute focuses on cleaner, stronger agenda following poll
With the release of a sponsored poll showing that the majority of voters support investments into U.S. energy for a joint economic and environmental focus, the Chamber of Commerce’s Global Energy Institute (GEI) has revealed a new “Cleaner, Stronger” agenda.
“The U.S. energy industry has been among the most innovative sectors of the economy, and will continue to make America cleaner and stronger,” Christopher Guith, acting president of the Chamber’s Global Energy Institute, said. “Energy companies are investing in innovation and technology which is making our air cleaner even while our economy and energy security are increasing. Our American Energy: Cleaner, Stronger agenda presents a realistic alternative to addressing energy and environmental issues that has broad bipartisan public support.”
That agenda will focus their resources on technology development and innovation, highlighting individuals, creations and companies working toward that end. Seeing themselves as an alternative to the Democrat-proposed Green New Deal, the GEI says its new initiative will lead them to advocate for federal policies, investments, research and a public education campaign to move the conversation toward a greener future.
In support of this, they surveyed 1,000 likely 2020 voters across the United States in March. Of the thousand reached, they say that 73 percent support their agenda while only 21 percent support the Green New Deal. Further, 89 percent are in support of policies that use energy resources responsibly, be it modern renewables or continued reliance on things like coal. Only 15 percent believe that all aspects of the U.S. economy could eliminate greenhouse gas emissions within 10 years, but a 79 percent majority believe the best way to progress is through investing in innovation and technology.
“Our new survey demonstrates that voters are concerned about energy and the environment, but they are also concerned about the costs and practicality of an approach to those issues driven primarily by government regulation,” Guith said. “Given the current state of technology, a regulatory approach involves significant price increases. Our focus is on developing technologies that can reduce environmental impacts and compete on price and reliability.”
