WASHINGTON , DC Today the Subcommittees on Readiness and Terrorism and Unconventional Threats heard testimony regarding the military’s efforts to improve energy efficiency through the use of alternative energy and technological innovation.  Democrats have been following this issue for some time and are pleased to finally hear directly from the Department of Defense on these efforts.

 

“I’m very pleased that this hearing is finally taking place. To improve our national security, I believe we must do more to improve our energy security,” said Representative Mark Udall (CO).

“The energy needs of this country are one of the most important challenges facing our nation today,” commented Readiness Ranking Member Solomon Ortiz (TX).  “Energy needs influence our international policies and are key to our national defense strategy.  In a time of increasing needs and decreasing budgets the DOD must find every way possible to stretch its energy dollars.”

Udall continued, “Given that the Department of Defense is the largest electricity consumer in the federal government, and the single largest buyer of fuel in the U.S., it makes sense to focus the attention of this committee on DoD’s energy efficiency efforts, particularly alternative energy.

“DoD should be commended for the progress it has already made to bring alternative fuels and clean power to its bases, vehicles, and weapons systems, but there is more work to be done.  I am committed to working with the Department to continue this trend toward increased fuel efficiency and usage of alternative fuels,” concluded Udall.

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