A growing and thriving economy requires stable and affordable energy supplies, and, like many Idahoans, I am concerned about the energy future of the United States. As a nation, we must continue looking for ways to reduce energy prices and improve our energy independence. I strongly support the development of all forms of energy, including renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower, clean alternative fuels such as propane, natural gas, ethanol, and methanol and domestic sources of oil and natural gas.
At the same time, I firmly believe that the revitalization of the nuclear industry is critical to meeting our energy security needs in the future. I have proudly supported a revitalized nuclear energy research and development program in Idaho and expanded use of nuclear power to meet our nation’s growing energy needs. Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is the nation’s lead nuclear energy research laboratory, and the research done there demonstrates great promise for the future of nuclear energy in our nation. INL also hosts ongoing research and development activities concerning alternative energy, which holds great promise for the future.
As Chairman of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I have been proud to promote increased funding and research opportunities at the INL for programs such as NGNP and Advanced Fuel Cycle Research and development as well as to renovate existing buildings and build new buildings at the Lab, purchase new equipment and operate the Advanced Test Reactor as a National Scientific User Facility. I have also used my position to promote nuclear research and the nuclear industry at large. Rest assured, I will continue to work with my colleagues to support increased funding for nuclear energy research and to advance initiatives that promote nuclear energy in Idaho and throughout the country.
