Insight and clean energy news from Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions  

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CLEAN ENERGY INSIDER
NOVEMBER 1, 2023
REAMS REPORT

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Last week, we were proud to host a briefing to highlight a recent CRES Forum white paper ([link removed]) outlining emissions-reducing alternatives to an EV-only approach.

The takeaway: the federal government is picking winners and losers, and if our goal is to lower transportation emissions, we must consider a range of fuel options for light-duty vehicles. As the paper states, it is unrealistic – if not impossible – to achieve the goal of net-zero transportation emissions by 2050, as projected by the International Energy Agency, for a number of reasons. In fact, putting all of our eggs in the EV basket may actually increase global emissions.

At this time, EVs are expensive, and in many rural, remote, or under-developed areas throughout the U.S., they simply don’t make sense, much less in the developing world. Additionally, EV batteries are incredibly mineral-intensive. Not only is the demand for several minerals more than double our current supply, but China dominates the supply chain for 21 of the 50 U.S.-designated critical minerals – many of which are used in battery manufacturing. China also leads the world in the processing of minerals and manufacturing of battery technologies. This certainly poses a national security risk, but with an economy that is three times more carbon intensive than the United States, it also poses a threat to the environment.

We must onshore our mineral supply chains and continue to build out our electric grid infrastructure, but instead of relying solely on electrification of vehicles to lower emissions in the transportation sector, we need a broader approach. By embracing alternative solutions – such as hybrid vehicles, advancing technologies to increase mileage-per-gallon, using alternative fuels – and supporting American innovation without tying the hands of U.S. vehicle manufacturers, we can and will achieve lower emissions and a stronger economy.

I encourage you to read CRES Forum’s latest white paper here ([link removed]) .

Sincerely,
Heather Reams
CRES President

WHAT CRES IS HEARING
“We all agree that a robust and growing nuclear industry is critical for reducing emissions, providing reliable, affordable, clean energy to Americans, and for building durable economic and strategic relationships around the world, especially as the influence of China and Russia in this industry, grows. Fortunately, we know our allies are eager for American leadership and technology, and our nuclear industry is ready to lead.” – Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) in opening remarks ([link removed]) at the House Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee markup of 17 bills to unlock clean nuclear and hydropower energy.
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“Since taking office, President Biden has chosen to rely on foreign countries with poor labor and environmental standards for the critical minerals necessary for his green energy push. ... Minnesota’s miners are ready and eager to responsibly source the copper and nickel located in the Duluth Complex, and all of Minnesota’s leaders should be unified in support of this worthy goal.” – Rep. Pete Stauber (R-Minn) in a statement ([link removed]) calling on Minnesota’s Senators to support domestic critical mineral development in the Iron Range.

WHAT CRES IS SAYING
“CRES congratulates newly elected Speaker Mike Johnson, and we welcome the opportunity to work with him and his team to promote affordable, reliable, and clean America-made energy.” – CRES President Heather Reams on the election of Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.). Read her full statement HERE ([link removed]) .
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“The Growing Climate Solutions Act recognizes the potential for America’s agriculture producers and forest owners to be leaders in conservation, innovation, and emissions reduction. Today’s report provides policymakers the clarity and direction they need to ensure voluntary carbon markets are farmer-focused, effective, and transparent – taking us one step closer to actualizing the priorities laid out in the GCSA.” – CRES President Heather Reams on the release of a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) report on voluntary carbon markets, directed by Congress as part of the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act (GCSA). Learn more HERE ([link removed]) .

WHAT CRES IS DOING
[link removed]
CRES Vice President of Policy and Research Richard Campbell participated in POLITICO’s panel discussion on the future of grid reliability in the United States. You can watch the full programming HERE ([link removed]) and read a recap of the night HERE ([link removed]) .
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WE’RE HIRING!

CRES is continuing to grow, and we're bolstering our team! If clean energy stirs your passion and you're keen to join a team promoting practical, conservative energy solutions, we want to hear from you! Find out more about our opportunities and apply below:
* Director of Policy ([link removed])
* Government Relations Manager ([link removed])
* Government Relations Coordinator ([link removed])
* Communications Intern: Spring 2024 ([link removed]) , Summer 2024 ([link removed])

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WHAT CRES IS WRITING

Why Conservatives Support Renewables ([link removed])
CRES Vice President of Policy and Research Richard Campbell penned a blog post outlining the past, present, and future of Republican support for clean and renewable energy technologies.
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“Weighing Transportation Alternatives for Reducing Emissions – Light Duty Vehicles” ([link removed])
Authored by CRES Forum Senior Policy Fellow George David Banks, R Street Institute Resident Senior Fellow Philip Rossetti, and Harvard Law School Research Fellow Ashley Nunes, the latest CRES Forum white paper highlights an all-of-the-above strategy to reducing emissions in the transportation sector and outlines policy recommendations for emissions-reducing alternatives to an electric vehicle (EV)-only approach.
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Strengthening America’s Power Grid Through Microgrids ([link removed])
The U.S. Department of Energy recently announced nearly $3.5 billion in funding from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act to strengthen U.S. power grids. One tranche of this funding will invest specifically in 400 microgrids to boost reliability and resilience.

WHAT CRES IS READING

China, world's top graphite producer, tightens exports of key battery material ([link removed].) – Reuters

Here's how Beijing pollutes the planet, steals from the US and enslaves millions ([link removed].) – The Daily Mail

Former coal-fired power plant razed to make way for offshore wind electricity connection ([link removed].) – Associated Press

Will the climate law really follow Obamacare’s fate? ([link removed].) – E&E News Daily

South Carolina leads on clean energy with a governor who recognizes why issue matters ([link removed].) – The State

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