House Republican Press Release

January 23, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Greenwich Delegation: Says Pass Energy Bills Now

Immediate Relief from Rising Electric Bills

HARTFORD – – House Republican Leader “At Large” Claudia “Dolly’’ Powers along with Assistant Republican Leaders Livvy R. Floren and Lile Gibbons today announced support for the call by Republican Leader Lawrence Cafero to provide immediate relief from rising electric bills.

Republicans said they have come to agreement with Democrats on a number of energy policy changes that include conservation and greater reliance on diversified fuels that will provide consumers much needed relief. But the failure to act after more than a year of work is apparently due to divisions among House Democrats and Senate Democrats.

Rep. Powers, Rep. Floren and Rep. Gibbons are calling for short- and long-term solutions which can be acted upon now:

· Conservation and efficiency tax exemptions would lead to less use;

· Expedited siting of distributed resources;

· Energy assistance programs.

Agreement on long-term solutions:

· Increased usage of renewable fuels such as solar, hydro and wind power which would lower our dependence on foreign oil;

· Funding natural gas and oil conservation;

· Allow for longer term contracts to stabilize lower wholesale prices.

“Our neighbors have waited long enough. We need to pass agreed-upon language right now while we continue to hammer out other solutions,” said Rep. Powers.

Rep. Floren said, “I worked for the electric utility industry for 25 years and truly believe that part of the solution to our energy problem is nuclear power, along with continuing to develop alternative sources and conservation.”

“As our electricity, home heating fuel and gasoline prices continue to soar; we are pricing ourselves out of a stable market where the average taxpayer can no longer continue to live in our state.  It is imperative we do something now that results in real savings,” stated Rep. Gibbons.