Taiga Company

The new administration appears to be setting up for strong action for renewable “green” energy.  President Obama has recently selected his top energy consultant, Steven Chu, and a host of environmental advisers.  These appointments all seem to support the world’s growing eco awareness and a proactive approach to climate legislation. 


•    The new Secretary of Energy, Steven Chu, is an advocate for more research into alternative energy and believes that a shift away from fossil fuels is essential to combat global warming.

•    Carol M. Browner was appointed to the top White House position on climate and energy policy.  As a former head of the EPA, Browner began efforts to deal with global warming, giving the EPA authority to regulate carbon emissions causing climate change.

•    Lisa P. Jackson was named Head of the EPA. The former Commissioner of Environmental Protection for New Jersey, Jackson headed numerous programs, including land use regulation, water supply, geological survey, and water monitoring & standards.

•    The Head of the White House Council on Environmental Quality was assigned to Nancy Sutley.  She was an EPA official during the Clinton administration, and served as special assistant to the EPA administrator in Washington, D.C.

Supporting the Administration is a Congress partial to Climate Change.  With key House Committee representation in favor of climate legislation, Congress is well positioned to make significant changes in energy.

•    House Committee on Energy and Commerce  – 36 to 23
•    House Committee on Natural Resources  – 29 to 20
•    House Committee on Science and Technology  – 26 to 17
 
In addition, Congress and the Senate passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The stimulus package of $787B includes a $30.7B allocation for renewable energy.  This sustainability plan of investment has been divided out to provide for a comprehensive approach.

•    $16.7B for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
•    $6B for Technology Loans for Energy Innovation
•    $4.5B for infrastructure to unlock and transport Renewable Energy Production
•    $3.5B for Carbon Capture and Sequestration

As a sustainability consultant, I am excited about the opportunity to make significant changes in the nation’s infrastructure.  With supportive legislations, motivated people and the availability to resources, some of the challenges facing the sustainability concept of renewable energy may be overcome.