This year, Congress may consider energy or environmental legislation. As not-for-profit electricity providers, the nation's electric cooperatives are committed to environmental stewardship. The cooperatives will work with Congress to craft energy policies that balance the costs of legislation with real environmental benefits.

Congress is debating proposals that may limit EPA’s regulation of carbon under the Clean Air Act in an effort to contain energy costs and provide the electric industry more time to reduce emissions without penalties. Because there are currently no limitations on carbon dioxide emissions, the new regulations would mandate many costly changes in the economy, especially the electric power industry. Electric cooperatives support limiting EPA’s reach to protect consumers from economic hardship.

Congress may also consider a Clean Energy Standard which requires electric companies to buy renewable resources, reduce emissions and promote energy efficiency.  We have concerns that government mandates will raise costs when most co-ops are already working toward these goals.

There’s only one way that Congress will look out for consumers when creating a national energy policy. Consumers have to tell Congress that electric rates matter. You can let your member of Congress know by calling 1-(877)-40BALANCE.

Read the articles below for information about recent legislative issues.