Adelman Introduces Renewable Energy Bill

ATLANTA (Feb. 11, 2009) – State Senator David Adelman wants Georgia to be in a strong position to take advantage of the more than $70 billion dollars for renewable energy initiatives in the federal economic stimulus plan. To meet this objective, Senator Adelman today introduced a renewable energy bill requiring electric service providers to gradually increase the amount of renewable and recoverable energy generation in their portfolios. Renewable energy sources include biomass, solar and wind energy, geothermal, and hydrogen.

“Renewable energy development gives us a three-for-one opportunity: it will create jobs, promote energy security and independence, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Senator Adelman. “This is a first step to long-term, sustainable energy independence.”

Specifically, the bill requires electric service providers to gradually increase renewable and recoverable energy generation with an ultimate requirement that 20% of annual net electricity sales come from renewable energy sources by the end of 2030. Measures that make energy usage more efficient, thereby conserving energy, can be counted toward that percentage.

Sen. David Adelman serves as Minority Whip and chairman of the Urban Affairs Committee. He represents the 42nd Senate District which includes portions of DeKalb County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.1376 or by email at david.adelman@senate.ga.gov.

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
February 11, 2009
For Information Contact:
Raegan Weber,Director
Matt Colvin Communications Associate
matthew.colvin@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028