During a heated debate on the House floor, Representative Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) introduced an amendment to HR 8997 that would prohibit funds from being used for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations within the Department of Energy. Van Drew argued that the current energy crisis demands immediate attention and resources, not the pursuit of clean energy solutions that he claims are being forced upon the American public without their consent.
Criticism of Clean Energy Push
Van Drew criticized the Biden administration’s push for clean energy, emphasizing that many Americans are tired of being dictated to by politicians. He stated, “Americans don’t work for us; we work for them,” highlighting the disconnect he perceives between government actions and public opinion. According to Van Drew, the policies advocated by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations will lead to less reliable energy, higher energy prices, and reduced energy independence.
Ethical Concerns and Foreign Dependence
Particularly, Van Drew took issue with the reliance on countries like China for essential minerals needed for clean energy technologies, citing human rights violations and modern-day slavery in the mining sector. “While we’re driving around our fancy electric vehicles, mostly wealthier folks, people in the Congo are scratching the dirt to try to survive. How wrong is that?” he exclaimed, criticizing the ethical implications of the clean energy transition.
Domestic Resources and Mining Restrictions
Van Drew noted that the U.S. has its own resources but is prevented from exploiting them due to current administration policies, thereby increasing dependence on China. “This Administration continues to prevent our ability to actually mine these resources, so we depend on China more than ever. You couldn’t make this stuff up,” he said, emphasizing the need for domestic resource utilization.
Defense of Clean Energy Programs
Representative Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN) countered Van Drew’s amendment, arguing that the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations is responsible for managing over $25 billion in large-scale pilot programs and demonstrations across numerous energy technologies. Fleischmann stressed the importance of oversight and project management to ensure the success of programs like the Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program and Small Modular Reactor Program, which he believes are crucial for the nation’s energy security.
Bipartisan Support for Energy Security
Fleischmann stated, “We can’t abandon our oversight responsibilities and risk the success of programs that have strong bipartisan support and are essential to ensuring our nation’s energy security.” He argued that the amendment would prevent the office from ensuring that programs are properly administered, potentially jeopardizing critical advancements in energy technology.
Historical Context and Energy Independence
In support of Fleischmann, Representative Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) opposed the amendment, recalling the 1970s Arab Oil Embargo that highlighted the dangers of energy dependence. “Energy is vital and can be used as a weapon. We have to be energy independent inside these borders,” Kaptur insisted. She praised the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations for its work in scaling up emerging technologies, such as advanced nuclear energy, carbon capture, and energy storage demonstrations, which she believes are essential for America’s future energy independence.
Call for All-Inclusive Energy Strategy
Kaptur argued, “We must continue to invest in an all-of-the-above strategy to make this country energy independent in perpetuity. Your amendment loses momentum and helps to throttle scientific innovation.” She highlighted various clean energy initiatives that could revolutionize energy efficiency and independence, urging Congress not to lose sight of these long-term goals.
Van Drew’s Final Remarks and Emphasis on Independence
Van Drew remained firm in his position, concluding that while he supports certain clean energy initiatives like nuclear and solar, he believes that the current approach forces unwanted changes upon the American public. He emphasized the need for energy independence and criticized the reliance on foreign resources for technologies like wind turbines and electric vehicles. “We are less energy independent now than we were four years ago. We need to look at nuclear and carbon capture but not make us more dependent on other countries,” Van Drew stated as he yielded back his time.
“We Create Our Own Problems”
People in the comments shared their opinions: “Just let the free market roll… So so tired of us working for our government.”
Another commenter said: “You cannot legislate innovation… and to weaken ourselves while we strive to achieve these goals, also strengthening our adversaries at the same time, is completely asinine.”
One person added: “Supporting China so they can build a strong military. Our government complains about China and them growing to become a Super Power. Who is to blame for this? We are so dependent on China for nearly everything. We create our own problems.”
A Fundamental Divide
The debate on HR 8997 highlights a fundamental divide in American energy policy: the balance between immediate energy needs and the pursuit of long-term clean energy solutions. Representative Van Drew’s amendment underscores the urgent need for reliable and independent energy sources amidst current crises, while Representatives Fleischmann and Kaptur emphasize the importance of continued investment in innovative technologies to ensure future energy security. As the U.S. navigates these complex challenges, it remains to be seen how policymakers will reconcile these competing priorities to achieve a sustainable and secure energy future.
Encouraging Clean Energy Innovation
What do you think? What are the potential long-term consequences of prioritizing immediate energy needs over investments in clean energy technologies? What role should government play in driving the transition to clean energy, and how can it ensure public support for such initiatives? In what ways can the market be encouraged to innovate in clean energy solutions without heavy government subsidies?
Watch the entire video on Forbes Breaking News’ YouTube channel for more information here.
